If you love creamy pasta dishes with a sweet and spicy kick, this Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is about to become your new obsession. Tender sautéed shrimp and perfectly cooked spaghetti noodles are tossed in a rich, creamy homemade bang bang sauce made with mayonnaise, sweet Thai chili sauce, honey, and Sriracha for the ultimate flavor-packed dinner.
This easy shrimp pasta recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting, flavorful, and restaurant-worthy without spending hours in the kitchen.
If you already love bang bang shrimp appetizers, this pasta version takes those bold flavors and transforms them into a hearty main dish everyone will crave.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in just 25 minutes
- Sweet, spicy, creamy, and savory
- Easy weeknight dinner
- Restaurant-quality flavor at home
- Packed with juicy shrimp
- Customizable spice level
- Family-friendly and satisfying
What is Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta?
Bang bang shrimp is traditionally a crispy shrimp appetizer coated in a creamy sweet-and-spicy sauce. This pasta version keeps all the delicious bang bang flavors but combines them with tender sautéed shrimp and spaghetti noodles for a complete meal.
The homemade bang bang sauce is the star of the recipe, balancing:
- Creamy mayonnaise
- Sweet Thai chili sauce
- Spicy Sriracha
- A touch of honey
The result is a silky, flavorful sauce that coats every noodle perfectly.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Bang Bang Sauce
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sweet Thai chili sauce
- ½ teaspoon Sriracha sauce (or more to taste)
- 1 tablespoon honey
For the Shrimp Pasta
- 10 ounces shrimp, peeled and deveined
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces spaghetti noodles, cooked al dente
Optional garnishes:
- Green onions
- Red pepper flakes
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Shrimp
Use raw shrimp that are:
- Peeled
- Deveined
- Tail removed
Fresh or frozen shrimp both work well.
If using frozen shrimp:
- Thaw completely before cooking
Sweet Thai Chili Sauce
This gives the sauce its signature sweet flavor and slight tang.
Sriracha
Sriracha adds heat and spice.
Want it spicier?
- Add a full teaspoon or more
Want it milder?
- Reduce the amount slightly
Pasta
Spaghetti works beautifully, but you can also use:
- Linguine
- Fettuccine
- Angel hair
- Penne
- Rotini
Butter & Garlic
Butter adds richness while garlic brings bold savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta
Step 1: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together:
- Mayonnaise
- Sweet Thai chili sauce
- Sriracha
- Honey
Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Cook spaghetti noodles according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Season the Shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry and season with:
- Salt
- Black pepper
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter.
Add the shrimp and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
Step 5: Add Garlic
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
Step 6: Toss Everything Together
Remove the skillet from the heat.
Add:
- Cooked spaghetti noodles
- Bang bang sauce
Toss everything together until fully coated.
Step 7: Garnish & Serve
Top with:
- Green onions
- Red pepper flakes
Serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Tips for the Best Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta
Don’t Overcook the Shrimp
Shrimp cook quickly and can become rubbery if overcooked.
They are done when:
- Pink
- Opaque
- Firm to the touch
Cook Pasta Al Dente
Firm pasta holds the creamy sauce best.
Adjust the Heat
Customize the spice level with more or less Sriracha.
Use Fresh Garlic
Fresh garlic gives the sauce the best flavor.
What to Serve with Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta
This creamy shrimp pasta pairs perfectly with:
- Garlic bread
- Roasted asparagus
- Caesar salad
- Steamed broccoli
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic green beans
It also pairs wonderfully with light, crisp salads.
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
How to Reheat
Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
Add:
- A splash of milk
- A little cream
- Or a small amount of water
This helps loosen the sauce and keep it creamy.
Delicious Variations
Make It Extra Spicy
Add:
- Extra Sriracha
- Crushed red pepper flakes
- Diced jalapeños
Add Vegetables
Try adding:
- Spinach
- Broccoli
- Bell peppers
- Mushrooms
- Snap peas
Use Chicken Instead
Swap shrimp for diced chicken breast.
Make It Lighter
Use:
- Light mayonnaise
- Greek yogurt
for a lighter sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is bang bang sauce spicy?
It has mild-to-medium heat, but you can easily adjust the spice level.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just thaw them fully and pat dry before cooking.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely. Store it in the refrigerator for up to one week.
What pasta works best?
Spaghetti, linguine, fettuccine, or penne all work well.
Final Thoughts
This Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is creamy, spicy, sweet, garlicky, and completely irresistible. Between the juicy shrimp, silky noodles, and bold homemade bang bang sauce, every bite is loaded with flavor.
It’s quick enough for busy weeknights but impressive enough for guests, making it one of those recipes you’ll find yourself craving again and again.