Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I adore this recipe because it’s fast, fun, and full of flavor. The creamy sauce clings perfectly to the pasta, while the shrimp add a light, juicy bite that makes every forkful satisfying. I love how easily I can adjust the spice level to my taste—just a little more chili or lime makes it my perfect comfort dish. It’s also a great option for entertaining since it looks and tastes restaurant-quality with minimal effort.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

8 oz thin spaghetti or angel hair pasta
1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tbsp coconut oil (or olive oil)
2 cloves garlic, minced (divided between shrimp and sauce)
½ tsp paprika
¼ tsp black pepper
1 tbsp chopped parsley (fresh or dried)
½ cup mayonnaise (or light mayo)
⅓ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
1 tbsp lime juice
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

Directions

1. In a small bowl, I whisk together the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, half the minced garlic, lime juice, and red pepper flakes to make the sauce. I set it aside.

2. I cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to the package directions. Once done, I drain it and set it aside.

3. In a separate bowl, I toss the shrimp with the remaining minced garlic, paprika, and black pepper to season.

4. I heat the coconut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

5. I add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring frequently, until they turn pink and opaque. I’m careful not to overcook them, so they stay tender and juicy.

6. In a large mixing bowl, I combine the cooked pasta, hot shrimp, and the prepared sauce. I toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated and glossy.

7. I sprinkle the dish with chopped parsley and serve it immediately. For a little extra flair, I sometimes garnish it with sliced green onions, lime wedges, or a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 4 servings and takes just 10 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of cooking time—for a total of 20 minutes from start to finish.

Variations

I like to mix things up with different ingredients depending on what I have in my kitchen:

• Extra Heat: I add a dash of sriracha or more red pepper flakes for a spicier version.

• Creamier Sauce: I stir in a spoonful of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream for a richer texture.

• Veggie Boost: I toss in sautéed bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for color and crunch.

• Protein Swap: Sometimes I substitute the shrimp with grilled chicken, tofu, or salmon for variety.

• Lighter Option: I replace the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a tangy, lighter sauce.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When I reheat it, I add a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce and warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat. The flavors actually deepen after sitting overnight, making it even tastier the next day.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, I often use frozen shrimp. I just thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking so they sear properly without releasing excess moisture.

How spicy is this pasta?

It has a mild heat level from the chili sauce and red pepper flakes, but I can easily adjust it by adding more or less to suit my taste.

What type of pasta works best?

I prefer thin spaghetti or angel hair because they coat well with the sauce, but linguine or fettuccine also work beautifully.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I sometimes cook the shrimp and sauce ahead of time, then toss everything together right before serving. This helps keep the shrimp tender and the pasta fresh.

What sides go well with Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta?

I love serving it with a crisp side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

This Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is a fast, flavorful dish that always satisfies my craving for something creamy, spicy, and comforting. I love how easily it comes together and how customizable it is—perfect for weeknights or when I want to impress with minimal effort. With tender shrimp, tangy-sweet sauce, and perfectly coated noodles, it’s a recipe I keep coming back to again and again.

Print