Name: Crispy Bang Bang Shrimp with Sweet Spicy Mayo Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Large Shrimp (peeled and deveined); 1 cup Buttermilk; 1 tsp Salt; 1 tsp Garlic Powder; 1 tsp Onion Powder; 1 tsp Black Pepper; 1 cup Cornstarch; 1/2 cup High-Quality Mayonnaise (Kewpie recommended); 2 tbsp Thai Sweet Chili Sauce; 1-3 tbsp Sriracha Hot Sauce (adjust to spice preference)

While wandering through a bustling market filled with delicious aromas, I stumbled upon a tiny food stall serving the crispiest Bang Bang Shrimp I’d ever laid eyes on. One bite transported me to a world bursting with flavor and warmth, and I immediately knew I had to recreate this magic at home. This Crunchy Bang Bang Shrimp with Spicy Chili Mayo combines tender, juicy shrimp coated in a light cornstarch crust, paired with a creamy, tangy sauce made from Sriracha and sweet chili. The best part? This quick and easy recipe transforms ordinary meal nights into something extraordinary, perfect as an appetizer or main course. Plus, it’s a fantastic crowd-pleaser that you’ll want to share with family and friends. Are you ready to learn how to whip up this restaurant-quality dish in your own kitchen and impress everyone with your culinary skills? Let’s dive in!

Why is Bang Bang Shrimp so irresistible?

Deliciously Crispy: Each shrimp is coated in a light, crunchy cornstarch layer that gives a satisfying crunch in every bite.

Flavor Explosion: The sweet and spicy mayo sauce elevates the dish with layers of flavor, making it utterly addictive.

Quick to Make: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes—perfect for those busy weekdays or last-minute gatherings.

Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a delightful appetizer, a main course with rice, or even as a taco topping for a fun twist!

Crowd Favorite: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or a casual get-together, this dish is guaranteed to impress everyone—just like my Coconut Shrimp Sweet and Bang Bang Chicken recipes!

Bang Bang Shrimp Ingredients

Discover the essential components for creating mouthwatering Bang Bang Shrimp!

For the Shrimp

Large Shrimp – Use peeled and deveined shrimp for optimal flavor and ease of eating.
Buttermilk – Tenderizes the shrimp and serves as a base for your batter.

For the Seasoning

Salt – Enhances all the flavors in the shrimp.
Garlic Powder – Adds a savory depth that complements the other seasonings.
Onion Powder – Works well with garlic to enrich the taste profile.
Black Pepper – Introduces a mild heat for added flavor.

For the Coating

Cornstarch – Essential for achieving a light and crispy exterior; avoid flour for this dish.

For the Sauce

High-Quality Mayonnaise – A creamy base; Kewpie mayonnaise offers an umami boost.
Thai Sweet Chili Sauce – Provides a delicious sweetness and mild heat to the overall sauce.
Sriracha Hot Sauce – Adds a kick; adjust to your spice preference for your Bang Bang Shrimp!

Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let’s get cooking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crunchy Bang Bang Shrimp with Spicy Chili Mayo

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp
In a medium bowl, combine large, peeled, and deveined shrimp with buttermilk, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Allow the mixture to marinate for 10 minutes to tenderize the shrimp and infuse flavor. While the shrimp absorbs the seasoning, prepare your workspace for the next steps.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating
On a flat, shallow dish, spread out the cornstarch evenly. Once the shrimp has finished marinating, remove each piece, allowing excess marinade to drip off before dredging it in the cornstarch. Make sure each shrimp is well-coated, shaking off any excess cornstarch to ensure a crispy finish when fried.

Step 3: Heat the Oil
In a large pot, pour in enough oil to reach 1½ inches deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F, which is ideal for frying. To check the temperature, you can use a thermometer or drop a small piece of cornstarch into the oil; it should sizzle immediately when ready. Safety is crucial, so be cautious while handling hot oil.

Step 4: Fry the Shrimp
Carefully add the coated shrimp to the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Fry each batch for about 2-3 minutes until the shrimp turn golden brown and crispy, achieving an internal temperature of 145°F. Use a slotted spoon to remove the shrimp and let them drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Step 5: Make the Sauce
In a large bowl, mix together high-quality mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha to create the spicy chili mayo. Whisk until the ingredients are well combined, and taste to adjust the seasoning or heat level if desired. This sauce will complement your Bang Bang Shrimp perfectly.

Step 6: Coat the Shrimp
Once the shrimp has cooled slightly, add them to the bowl with the prepared sauce. Gently toss the fried shrimp in the spicy chili mayo until they are evenly coated, ensuring every piece is enveloped in that delightful sauce. This step adds a creamy finish that contrasts beautifully with the crispy exterior.

Step 7: Serve Immediately
Transfer the coated Bang Bang Shrimp to a serving platter and enjoy right away for the best texture. You can serve this dish with rice, lettuce wraps, or as a topping for tacos. Remember, the combination of crispy shrimp and flavorful sauce is best enjoyed fresh!

What to Serve with Crunchy Bang Bang Shrimp?

Bring your culinary journey to life with the perfect pairings that complement this delightful dish and elevate your meal experience.

Coconut Rice: Light and fragrant, coconut rice adds a tropical touch that balances the savory flavors of the shrimp beautifully.
Crisp Salad: A refreshing green salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers a crunchy contrast and lightens up the meal.
Spicy Noodles: Satisfying and flavorful, serve up some spicy noodles to match the heat of the Bang Bang Shrimp, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
Grilled Vegetables: Smoky, charred veggies add texture and a burst of color to your plate, enhancing both taste and presentation.
Mango Salsa: Bright and zesty, mango salsa brings a sweet and fruity contrast that perfectly complements the spicy shrimp.
Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread allows for a delightful, buttery experience that pairs surprisingly well with the shrimp’s spicy kick and creamy sauce.
Beer or Wine: A chilled lager or a crisp white wine helps to cleanse the palate and accentuates the flavors in your dish, making your meal even more enjoyable.
Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a rich chocolate mousse offers a decadent sweet ending that contrasts wonderfully with the savory, spicy shrimp.

These pairings create a balanced meal that’s sure to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds!

Expert Tips for Bang Bang Shrimp

Temperature Check: Ensure oil is at an accurate 350°F. Use a thermometer for best frying results and avoid soggy shrimp.
Batch Cooking: Fry shrimp in small batches to maintain oil temperature. Overcrowding leads to steaming instead of crisping, ruining your Bang Bang Shrimp.
Proper Coating: Shake off excess cornstarch after dredging. This helps achieve that light, crispy texture without clumping.
Quality Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality shrimp and mayonnaise. It makes a significant difference in flavor and texture, ensuring a delightful experience.
Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to customize the amount of Sriracha in the sauce to match your spice preference. Make it mild or fiery!

How to Store and Freeze Bang Bang Shrimp

Fridge: Store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp in an airtight container for up to 1 day. For the best taste, consume as soon as possible to enjoy its crispy texture.

Freezer: While freezing is not recommended for leftover Bang Bang Shrimp due to potential loss of crispiness, you can freeze uncooked breaded shrimp for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To reheat, place the shrimp in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. This method helps regain some of the original crunch, making your leftovers nearly as delightful as the first serve.

Wrap Up: If you must store them, ensure the shrimp are well-protected to avoid moisture and keep its signature flavor intact when enjoying your Bang Bang Shrimp!

Bang Bang Shrimp Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to make this Bang Bang Shrimp your own adventure by experimenting with delicious twists!

Chicken Delight: Swap shrimp for chicken breast pieces for a meaty version that’s just as scrumptious. The marinade keeps the chicken juicy and tender!
Cauliflower Swap: For a vegetarian option, use cauliflower florets, lightly steamed before breading. They soak up the sauce beautifully and offer a unique texture.
Lower-Calorie: Use an air fryer instead of deep frying to reduce oil and calories while still achieving that satisfying crunch.
Spice it Up: Increase the Sriracha in the sauce for those who crave an extra kick. Alternatively, add chili flakes to the cornstarch coating for a spicy crunch!
Herb Infusion: Mix fresh chopped herbs like cilantro or green onions into the sauce for a vibrant flavor boost that brightens the dish.
Different Sauces: Experiment with different dips—like a creamy garlic aioli or a tangy ranch—to find your new favorite pairing for these crispy bites!
Sweet Twist: Add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup to the sauce for a sweet balance that enhances the heat and brings out unique flavors.
Asian Fusion: Serve over a bed of steamed rice or toss with noodles for a delightful twist, reminiscent of both traditional Asian dishes and your version of Bang Bang Shrimp.

Trying these variations allows you to bring even more excitement to your family dinners, just like my delightful Bang Bang Chicken or the tropical flavors of Coconut Shrimp Sweet!

Make Ahead Options

These Crunchy Bang Bang Shrimp are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the shrimp in buttermilk and spices up to 24 hours in advance, which allows the flavors to deeply penetrate the shrimp, making them even more tender. For a quick prep, you can also coat the shrimp in cornstarch and keep them in a sealed container in the refrigerator for another up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to enjoy your Bang Bang Shrimp, simply heat the oil and fry them until golden brown, then toss them in the spicy chili mayo sauce for that delicious finish. This way, you’ll enjoy tasty, restaurant-quality results with minimal effort—perfect for busy weeknights!

Crunchy Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right shrimp for my Bang Bang Shrimp?
Absolutely! When selecting shrimp, look for large, peeled, and deveined options for optimal texture and flavor. Fresh shrimp should have a mild, clean smell, and their flesh should be firm with a translucent appearance. Avoid shrimp that shows signs of freezer burn or has dark spots all over, which can indicate age.

How should I store leftover Bang Bang Shrimp?
Leftover Bang Bang Shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. However, for the best quality, enjoy them fresh! If you need to store them, keep in mind that they will lose their crispiness over time, so it’s best to reheat them in an oven rather than a microwave.

Can I freeze unused ingredients for Bang Bang Shrimp?
Great question! You may freeze uncooked, breaded shrimp for up to 2 months. To do this, lay them out on a baking sheet in a single layer to freeze them individually. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight freezer bag for storage. To cook from frozen, simply deep-fry without thawing, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What if my Bang Bang Shrimp turns soggy?
Very! Soggy shrimp can be a disappointing result, often stemming from overlapping frying or insufficient oil temperature. Always work in small batches to maintain oil heat. If you find your shrimp soggy after frying, you can try reheating them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to bring back some crispiness.

Can I adjust the spice level in the sauce?
Of course! The beauty of the Bang Bang Shrimp lies in its adaptability. You can easily adjust the amount of Sriracha in your sauce to cater to your spice preference. More Sriracha will amp up the heat, while reducing it will create a milder version. Taste as you mix and feel free to add other spices like chili flakes if you want an extra kick!

Is there a way to make Bang Bang Shrimp pet-friendly?
It’s important to be cautious! The sauce contains ingredients like Sriracha, which can be very spicy for pets. If you want to share a version with your furry friends, prepare a plain batch of shrimp—lightly boiled or grilled without seasoning—before tossing your own in the sauce. Always consult with your vet regarding safe foods for your pets.