How to Make Restaurant-Style Bang Bang Shrimp at Home

I still remember the first time I tasted Bang Bang Shrimp. It was at a  seafood restaurant. The dish arrived with a flourish—golden shrimp glistening under a blanket of creamy, spicy sauce. One bite, and I was hooked. The crispy texture, the fiery kick, and that luscious sauce danced together in a way that left me craving more. If you’ve ever wondered what makes Bang Bang Shrimp so irresistible, stick with me.

Bang Bang Shrimp

What Is Bang Bang Shrimp?

Bang Bang Shrimp is the kind of appetizer that steals the show. Picture this: plump shrimp, fried to a perfect crisp, then tossed in a sauce that’s creamy, sweet, and spicy all at once. The magic lies in the combo—mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and a generous hit of sriracha. It’s often sprinkled with green onions or cilantro and served over lettuce or with rice. The name “Bang Bang” isn’t just catchy; it’s a nod to the explosive flavors that hit your taste buds with every bite. Trust me, this isn’t your average shrimp dish.

The Origin of Bang Bang Shrimp

Where did this culinary gem come from? The story’s a little hazy, but most folks point to Bonefish Grill, a restaurant chain that made it a star in the early 2000s. That said, the idea of fried seafood in a spicy, creamy sauce has echoes in Asian cuisines—think Thai or Chinese influences. Some even link the name to “Bang Bang Chicken,” a Chinese dish with shredded chicken and a fiery sauce. Whatever its roots, Bang Bang Shrimp has carved out its own legacy, popping up everywhere from seafood joints to home kitchens. It’s a dish with a passport, and I’m here for it.

What Makes Bang Bang Shrimp So Special?

So, what’s the hype about? It’s all about balance. The shrimp are fried just right—crisp on the outside, tender inside. Then there’s the sauce: a creamy base from mayo, sweetness from chili sauce, and a spicy punch from sriracha. It’s comfort food with an edge. And versatility? You can serve it as a starter, a main, or even stuff it into tacos for a twist. It’s the kind of dish that makes you wonder: how can something so simple be this good?

How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp at Home

Ready to play chef? You don’t need a culinary degree to nail this. Here’s a foolproof recipe to bring Bang Bang Shrimp to your table.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
• 1-2 tbsp sriracha (dial it up or down to your taste)
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Green onions or cilantro for garnish
• Lettuce or rice for serving

Instructions:

1. Prep the Shrimp: Pat those shrimp dry with paper towels—soggy shrimp won’t crisp up. Toss them in a bowl with cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until they’re nicely coated.
2. Fry Time: Heat about an inch of veggie oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. When it’s shimmering, fry the shrimp in batches—2-3 minutes per side until they’re golden and crunchy. Drain them on a paper towel-lined plate.
3. Sauce It Up: In a bowl, whisk together mayo, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey. Taste it—too tame? Add more sriracha. Too spicy? Ease up next time.
4. Toss and Serve: Coat the fried shrimp in that glorious sauce. Serve it hot over lettuce or rice, and sprinkle some green onions or cilantro on top for flair.

Bang Baang Shrimp

Tips for Perfect Bang Bang Shrimp

• Don’t Overcook: Shrimp turn rubbery fast. Watch them like a hawk while frying.
• Spice Control: Start light with sriracha if you’re spice-shy, or go wild if you’re a heat fiend.
• Prep Ahead: Mix the sauce early and chill it—just don’t toss it with the shrimp until they’re fresh from the fryer.
• Bake Option: Want less oil? Bake the shrimp at 400°F for 10-12 minutes. They won’t be as crispy, but still tasty.

My Bang Bang Shrimp Story

Here’s a little confession: I once made this for a friend who bragged they could handle any spice. I upped the sriracha—let’s call it a “confidence test.” Halfway through, their face was red, and they were chugging water like it was a lifeline. We still laugh about it, and now it’s our go-to story when we cook together. Ever had a spicy dish sneak up on you like that? What’s your Bang Bang Shrimp moment?

Why You Should Try Making Bang Bang Shrimp

This dish isn’t just about flavor—it’s a vibe. It’s perfect for a dinner party, a cozy night in, or flexing your kitchen skills. The best part? It looks fancy but takes less effort than you’d think. Serve it up, and watch your guests’ eyes light up. There’s something about that crispy, saucy goodness that sparks joy and conversation. Who doesn’t love a plate that brings people together?

Final Thoughts

Bang Bang Shrimp is more than a recipe—it’s a little celebration on a plate. The crunch, the creaminess, the sweet-spicy dance—it’s a dish that delivers every time. Now that you’ve got the scoop, why not give it a whirl? Whip up a batch, snap a pic, and share your take in the comments or on social media with #BangBangShrimpLove. I’d bet my last shrimp you’ll see why this dish has a cult following. What’s stopping you? Dive in and let the flavors do the talking.

*This post may contain affiliate links which means I may earn commissions for purchases made through links at no extra cost to you. See https://asianfoodsdaily.com/disclaimer/* for more infomation