Name: Bang Bang Shrimp
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian-American
Ingredients: For the Sauce:; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1/3 cup sweet chili sauce; 2 teaspoons sriracha (adjust to desired spice level); For the Shrimp:; 1 pound peeled, deveined shrimp, tails removed; 1/2 cup buttermilk; 3/4 cup cornstarch; Oil for frying (enough to cover the shrimp in a heavy-bottomed pan or skillet)

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Bang Bang Shrimp, also known as Firecracker Shrimp, is a crispy, creamy, and spicy dish that’s perfect as both an appetizer or a main course. Coated in a sweet chili and sriracha mayo sauce, these golden shrimp are bursting with bold flavor and an addictive crunch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy fried shrimp tossed in a creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce
Restaurant-style quality, made right at home
Easy to make with just a handful of ingredients
Perfect as an appetizer, party snack, or main dish over rice or salad
Customizable spice level with just a little adjustment to the sriracha

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full ingredient list and exact measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Sauce:

1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/3 cup sweet chili sauce
2 teaspoons sriracha (adjust to taste)

For the Shrimp:

1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails removed
1/2 cup buttermilk
3/4 cup cornstarch
Oil for frying (enough to cover shrimp in skillet)

Directions

Make the Sauce – In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to use.
Prepare the Shrimp – Place shrimp in a bowl and cover with buttermilk. Let soak for 10 minutes.
Coat the Shrimp – Remove shrimp from buttermilk, shake off excess, and dredge in cornstarch. Place on a cooling rack until ready to fry.
Fry the Shrimp – Heat 1 inch of oil in a heavy-bottomed pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry shrimp in batches for 1–2 minutes per side, until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
Toss in Sauce – Place shrimp in a large bowl, pour sauce over, and toss until fully coated.
Serve – Enjoy hot over greens, rice, or slaw.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Baked Version: Bake shrimp at 425°F for 10–12 minutes for a lighter option.
Air Fryer Method: Air fry at 400°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Extra Crunch: Double-dip the shrimp in buttermilk and cornstarch for an extra crispy coating.
Spice Levels: Add more sriracha for heat or reduce it for a milder version.
Protein Swap: Use chicken, fish, or even cauliflower for a fun twist.

Storage

Shrimp: Best enjoyed immediately for crispiness. Leftovers can be refrigerated up to 2 days but will lose some crunch.
Sauce: Store separately in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

FAQs

Can I make Bang Bang Shrimp ahead of time?

You can prep the sauce and marinate the shrimp in buttermilk ahead of time, but fry the shrimp just before serving for best results.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before coating.

Is there a healthier version?

Yes—try baking or air frying instead of deep frying.

Can I make this without mayo?

You can substitute Greek yogurt or sour cream for a lighter alternative.

What should I serve it with?

Bang Bang Shrimp pairs beautifully with rice, noodles, salads, or as a taco filling.

Why is it called “Bang Bang Shrimp”?

The name comes from the bold “bang” of flavor—creamy, sweet, and spicy all at once.

Conclusion

Bang Bang Shrimp is the ultimate crispy, spicy, and creamy seafood dish. With a crunchy golden coating and a flavorful sauce that balances heat and sweetness, it’s a crowd-pleaser that works just as well as an appetizer or a main meal. Once you try it, you’ll want it in your dinner rotation again and again!