Creamy, Spicy Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta: A Quick & Easy Recipe

Hey there, pasta lovers! Are you ready for a flavor explosion that’s as quick to make as it is delicious to eat? Then get ready to dive headfirst into this creamy, spicy Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta! This recipe isn’t just about throwing some shrimp and pasta together; it’s about creating a symphony of textures and tastes that will leave you wanting more. Imagine tender shrimp coated in a luscious, sweet, spicy, and tangy sauce, perfectly clinging to each strand of your favorite pasta.

The creamy mayonnaise base provides a luxurious richness that’s balanced beautifully by the zing of lime juice and the fiery kick of sriracha. This isn’t your grandma’s pasta – it’s a vibrant, fun, and incredibly satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together with friends.

What makes this Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta truly special is its simplicity. You won’t spend hours slaving over a hot stove. This recipe is designed for busy weeknights, allowing you to whip up a restaurant-quality meal in a fraction of the time. The combination of sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and lime juice creates a flavor profile that’s both exciting and addictive. The creamy texture, tender shrimp, and perfectly cooked pasta offer a harmonious blend that will tantalize your taste buds. You’ll experience a delightful interplay of creamy richness, sweet heat, and zesty tang – the perfect combination for a mood-boosting, flavorful meal.

Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for this one. Prepare to be amazed by how quickly you can create this delicious, satisfying dish. It’s the kind of recipe that feels both indulgent and effortlessly achievable, making it perfect for any night of the week. So, grab your aprons, and let’s get cooking!

What You’ll Need

This Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta recipe calls for simple, readily available ingredients. You probably already have many of them in your pantry! Here’s a detailed list:

• 8 ounces spaghetti or linguine pasta: Your choice of pasta, ensuring a nice surface area for the sauce to cling to.
• ¾ cup mayonnaise: Provides the creamy base for our sensational sauce. A good quality mayonnaise will make a difference!
• ⅓ cup sweet chili sauce: This brings the sweet heat that defines Bang Bang sauce. Look for a good quality one, with a nice balance of sweet and spicy.
• 2 limes, juiced: The fresh lime juice cuts through the richness and adds a zesty brightness.
• 2 tablespoons sriracha: Adjust to your spice preference. Start with less and add more if you prefer a spicier kick.
• 12 ounces medium shrimp, deveined and peeled: Fresh or frozen shrimp work well; ensure they’re thoroughly cooked.
• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced: Adds a wonderful savory depth of flavor.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Enhances the overall flavor profile with a subtle smokiness.
• 1 teaspoon salt: To season the shrimp and pasta.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds another layer of savory depth to complement the garlic.
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or olive oil: For sautéing the garlic and shrimp.
• Garnish (Optional): 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped: A fresh, bright garnish to elevate the visual appeal of your dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your own amazing Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta:

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your spaghetti or linguine and cook according to package directions until al dente. Remember to reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water before draining – you might need it to adjust the sauce consistency later.
2. Prepare the Sauce: While the pasta is cooking, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, lime juice, and sriracha in a medium bowl. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking; you might want to add a pinch more salt or sriracha depending on your preferences. Tip: For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to briefly blend the ingredients.
3. Sauté the Shrimp and Garlic: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
4. Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Season with salt, paprika, and onion powder. Tip: Cooking time will depend on the size of your shrimp and the heat of your stove.
5. Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the shrimp. Pour the Bang Bang sauce over the pasta and shrimp, tossing to coat everything evenly. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Tip: Don’t be afraid to get creative here!
6. Serve and Garnish: Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley, if desired. Enjoy your delicious and easy Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta!

Tips for Success

Here are a few extra tips to ensure your Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta turns out perfectly every time:

Don’t overcook the shrimp: Overcooked shrimp will be tough and rubbery. Cook them until they are just pink and opaque.

Taste and adjust the sauce: The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility. Taste the sauce and adjust the sweetness, spiciness, and tanginess to your liking.

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh lime juice and herbs make a big difference in the flavor of the dish.

Don’t be afraid to experiment: Feel free to add other vegetables or proteins to this recipe.

Serve immediately: This dish is best served fresh, so enjoy it as soon as it’s ready!

Variations to Try

Want to put your own spin on this recipe? Here are a few variations to explore:

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce for extra heat.

Creamier Sauce: Add a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche to the sauce for extra richness.

Vegetarian Option: Substitute the shrimp with cooked chickpeas or firm tofu for a vegetarian version.

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.

Add Veggies: Toss in some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.

Storing and Reheating

Leftover Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent it from drying out. You can also microwave it for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. While freezing isn’t ideal for maintaining the best texture, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently. The sauce might thicken slightly upon reheating – adding a little water or broth can help restore its creamy consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp? A: Yes, absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Pat them dry with paper towels before sautéing to ensure they brown properly.

Q: How long does the pasta keep? A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavor and texture will be best if consumed within this timeframe.

Q: Can I substitute the sweet chili sauce? A: While sweet chili sauce is key to the Bang Bang flavor, you could experiment with a combination of chili garlic sauce and honey for a similar sweet and spicy effect. Taste and adjust accordingly.

Q: What if my sauce is too thick? A: Add a tablespoon or two of the reserved pasta water to thin it out. You can also add a splash of milk or cream.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time? A: You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Cook the pasta and shrimp just before serving to ensure optimal texture and flavor.

The Final Word

This Creamy, Spicy Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is a game-changer. It’s a quick, easy, and unbelievably delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of creamy mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and spicy sriracha creates a truly addictive flavor profile, and the tender shrimp and perfectly cooked pasta are the perfect complements. So ditch the takeout menu, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience a pasta dish that will become a new family favorite. Don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know how yours turned out! And if you loved this recipe, please give it a rating – it helps others discover this deliciousness too!

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