Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe That Will Wow Your Guests
Last Updated on May 8, 2026 by aitanarecipez
When my friends announced a game night last weekend, I felt that familiar spark of excitement coupled with a hint of pressure. I wanted to contribute something special, something that would bring everyone together at the table and leave them raving. That s when I decided to whip up a batch of Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp. The moment those shrimp hit the hot oil, the delightful sizzle filled the kitchen, infusing the air with an intoxicating aroma.
With its crispy exterior and zesty sriracha mayo, this dish is not only an easy appetizer, but it also packs a punch of flavor that s sure to impress even the pickiest eaters. Whether you re hosting a casual gathering or looking to satisfy that persistent craving for homemade goodness, these Bang Bang Shrimp will be the star of the show.
Join me as I guide you through this simple yet delicious recipe that transforms ordinary shrimp into a crunchy, spicy delight that everyone will love!
Why love this Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe?
Flavor Explosion: The balance of crispy shrimp and creamy, spicy sauce will take your taste buds on a tantalizing journey.
Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
Gluten-Free Option: Swap out ingredients without sacrificing flavor, making it accessible for everyone in your circle.
Crowd-Pleaser: Serve it at your next gathering, and watch your guests rave about this unforgettable dish.
Customizable: Whether you prefer a light kick or a fiery heat, adjust the sriracha level to your liking for a personal touch.
Bang Bang Shrimp Ingredients
Let s gather what you need for this delightful Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe!
For the Marinade
- Full-fat buttermilk Adds moisture and richness to the shrimp; can substitute with dairy-free alternatives.
- Sriracha sauce Provides heat and flavor; any hot sauce can work, but sriracha adds a unique sweetness.
- Coarse salt and cracked pepper For seasoning; adjust to your taste.
For the Coating
- Fresh shrimp (31/40, peeled and deveined) The main protein in the dish; frozen shrimp can be used, ensure they’re fully thawed.
- Cornstarch Creates a crispy coating when fried; can replace with potato starch for gluten-free options.
- Garlic granules For flavor enhancement; garlic powder can also be used.
- Onion granules Adds depth to the flavor; onion powder is an alternative.
For the Frying
- Cooking oil Needed for frying; choose oils suitable for high-heat frying like canola, avocado, or peanut oil.
For the Bang Bang Sauce
- Bang Bang Sauce Essential for flavor and coating; homemade or store-bought can be used.
Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let s dive into cooking this amazing Bang Bang Shrimp!
How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp
Preheat oil: Begin by heating oil in a frying pan over medium heat until it reaches 375°F. This ensures your shrimp will fry to a golden perfection, creating that beloved crunch.
Marinate the shrimp: In a bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, sriracha, salt, and pepper. Add in the peeled and deveined shrimp, letting them marinate for 10-15 minutes. This step infuses flavor and tenderness into your shrimp.
Mix the coating: In a separate bowl, combine the cornstarch, garlic granules, onion granules, and a pinch of salt. This dry mix forms a crunchy coating that makes your fried shrimp irresistible.
Coat the shrimp: Once marinated, shake off any excess buttermilk from the shrimp and coat each one in the cornstarch mixture. Ensure a good coverage for that perfect crunch!
Fry the shrimp: Carefully add the shrimp to the hot oil in batches, frying for 60-90 seconds or until they turn lightly browned. Keep an eye on them to get that ideal crispiness without overcooking!
Drain excess oil: Once golden and crispy, remove the shrimp from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain off any excess oil, keeping them light and crispy.
Toss in Bang Bang Sauce: In a bowl, gently toss your fried shrimp with 2/3 cup of the Bang Bang Sauce. For an extra layer of flavor, add optional sliced green onions.
Plate and garnish: Serve your Bang Bang Shrimp on a bed of fresh lettuce, garnished with additional sauce and green onion if desired. They re ready to dazzle your guests!
Optional: Serve with lime wedges for an extra zesty kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Bang Bang Shrimp
Hot Oil Check: Always ensure the oil is at 375°F before frying to prevent the coating from falling off and to achieve that perfect crunch.
Batch Cooking: Fry shrimp in small batches to maintain oil temperature, ensuring each piece cooks evenly and stays crispy.
Proper Coating: Shake off excess buttermilk before coating with cornstarch; this ensures a well-adhered crust that won t slip during frying.
Watch for Color: Keep an eye on shrimp while frying; remove them once they turn a beautiful golden brown to avoid overcooking and getting a rubbery texture.
Customize the Heat: Adjust the level of sriracha in the Bang Bang sauce to tailor the spice level to your preference, making this Bang Bang Shrimp recipe your own.
What to Serve with Bang Bang Shrimp?
Enhance your meal by exploring tasty side dishes that pair perfectly with this crispy delight.
- Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes complements the spiciness of the shrimp while adding an irresistible crunch.
- Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy coleslaw offers refreshing contrast to the rich, spicy flavors of the Bang Bang Shrimp. Plus, it s a favorite crowd-pleaser!
- Garlic Rice: Fragrant garlic rice acts as a neutral companion, soaking up the shrimp’s sauce while delivering additional aromatic flavor to every bite.
- Spicy Mango Salsa: Bright, fresh mango salsa adds a refreshing, fruity zing that heightens the flavors of the shrimp, making each mouthful a vibrant experience.
- Zucchini Noodles: Light and refreshing, zucchini noodles provide a healthy, low-carb alternative that feels like a cool canvas for the bold shrimp.
- Sesame Snap Peas: These crunchy gems present a great textural contrast and are complemented by a light drizzle of sesame oil, adding a nutty finish.
- Chilled Beer or Sparkling Wine: A cold drink like a pale ale or bubbly? Perfect! The carbonation and flavor balance beautifully with the shrimp’s heat.
- Key Lime Pie: For dessert, offer a tangy key lime pie, as its coolness and citrus notes provide a refreshing end to your delicious meal.
Bang Bang Shrimp Variations
Feel free to explore these exciting twists that will add your personal touch to this delightful dish!
- Crunchy Panko: Swap cornstarch with panko breadcrumbs for a delightful extra crunch. This adds texture and an appealing golden color!
- Spicy Mayo: Replace Bang Bang sauce with a spicy mayo for a creamier, tangy kick that complements the shrimp beautifully.
- Sweet Heat: Mix in a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup to the sauce for a touch of sweetness that balances the heat.
- Garlic Lover’s Dream: Add minced garlic to the marinade for a robust flavor that enhances the overall dish. Trust me, garlic lovers will adore this twist!
- Coconut Coating: Use unsweetened shredded coconut in the coating for a tropical flair. This creates a unique flavor that pairs nicely with the shrimp.
- Firecracker Shrimp: Increase the sriracha for those who love intense heat. Just remember to adjust it to the tastes of your crowd!
- Zesty Citrus: Squeeze some lime or lemon juice into the sauce for a bright, zesty layer of flavor that elevates each bite.
- Vegetable Medley: Add sliced bell peppers or zucchini to the frying mix for a pop of color and nutrition, making it a wholesome treat.
Dive into these variations and make this Bang Bang Shrimp recipe truly your own!
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can marinate the shrimp in the buttermilk and sriracha mixture up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to infuse beautifully. Additionally, the cornstarch coating can be prepared ahead of time and stored in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, simply coat the marinated shrimp in the cornstarch mixture and fry them for a quick 60-90 seconds until golden brown. To keep the shrimp just as delicious, make sure to fry them fresh rather than reheating. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!
Storage Tips for Bang Bang Shrimp
Fridge: Store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure they cool down before sealing to maintain their texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked shrimp for up to 2 months in a tightly sealed freezer bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To restore crispiness, reheat in the oven at 375°F for 5-7 minutes, rather than the microwave, ensuring that your Bang Bang Shrimp stay deliciously crunchy.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving Bang Bang Shrimp at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! The best choice is fresh shrimp, specifically the 31/40 size, which means there are about 31 to 40 shrimp per pound. If fresh ones aren’t available, feel free to use frozen shrimp but be sure to fully thaw them before marination. This ensures they absorb all the marinade flavors beautifully!
How should I store the leftover Bang Bang Shrimp?
Very easily! Store your leftover Bang Bang Shrimp in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s essential to let them cool before sealing to retain their delightful crunch!
Can I freeze cooked Bang Bang Shrimp?
Yes, indeed! To freeze your Bang Bang Shrimp, place them in a tightly sealed freezer bag. They can be enjoyed for up to 2 months. Make sure to thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best results you’ll want that crunch!
What if my shrimp are rubbery after frying?
Don t worry! This often happens if the shrimp are overcooked. To avoid this, watch closely during frying and remove the shrimp once they’ve turned a lovely golden brown, about 60-90 seconds. If needed, practice makes perfect every batch will teach you something new!
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make this Bang Bang Shrimp gluten-free, simply replace regular cornstarch with potato starch, and ensure that your Bang Bang Sauce is gluten-free as well. Your friends with dietary restrictions will be thrilled!
How can I adjust the spice level in the Bang Bang Sauce?
Great question! You can customize the heat by varying the amount of sriracha based on your preference. If you prefer mild, start with a small amount and gradually add more until you reach your desired level a little experimentation goes a long way!