Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe: The Crispiest, Creamiest Shrimp You’ll Ever Make

Craving something crunchy, creamy, and just the right amount of spicy? This Bang Bang Shrimp recipe delivers all that and more. Known for its irresistible crispy coating and a creamy, sweet-heat sauce, it’s a crowd-pleaser for everything from weeknight dinners to game day spreads. Whether you’ve had it at Bonefish Grill or are hearing about it for the first time, this copycat version is quick to whip up, light on prep, and big on flavor.

Looking for inspiration? Try our Crispy Chicken Caesar Sandwich if you’re a fan of crunchy textures and bold flavors!

Let’s dive into where this dish came from and why it deserves a spot in your weekly rotation.

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What Is Bang Bang Shrimp?

Origin and Restaurant Roots

Bang Bang Shrimp first made waves thanks to Bonefish Grill, a popular seafood restaurant chain. It quickly became their signature appetizer — crispy fried shrimp tossed in a creamy, spicy mayo-based sauce. The dish spread like wildfire, and soon foodies everywhere were recreating it at home.

What makes it so appealing? It’s that addictive mix of crispy, tender shrimp and a sauce that’s the perfect balance of sweet, creamy, and fiery.

Why It’s Called “Bang Bang”?

The name isn’t just for fun. “Bang Bang” refers to the spicy kick of the creamy sauce — typically a blend of mayo, sweet chili sauce, and a touch of sriracha or hot sauce. The double “bang” hints at the double flavor hit: bold heat and rich creaminess.

Some say it comes from the popular Asian “bang bang chicken,” but this shrimp dish is very much its own sensation.

What Makes It Different from Other Fried Shrimp Dishes?

Unlike traditional fried shrimp, Bang Bang Shrimp features a light cornstarch-based batter, not heavy breadcrumbs. This gives it a crisper, more delicate crunch. But what truly sets it apart is the signature sauce — creamy, spicy, and sweet — poured generously over hot, freshly fried shrimp.

It’s also incredibly versatile: enjoy it over rice, tucked in tacos, or served on lettuce cups. Want more ideas for using shrimp? Don’t miss our Mexican Street Corn and Shrimp — another bold combo you’ll love.

Ingredients Breakdown for Bang Bang Shrimp

Getting Bang Bang Shrimp just right starts with choosing the right ingredients. Each component plays a key role—from the tender shrimp to the iconic sauce that brings the heat.

Shrimp: Best Type and How to Prep It

The foundation of this dish is high-quality shrimp. Look for medium to large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined. If possible, choose tail-off for easier eating. Fresh or frozen works fine, but if using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw completely and pat dry to ensure the batter sticks.

You’ll want to lightly season the shrimp with salt and pepper before coating. Pro tip: a sprinkle of paprika adds a subtle smoky depth.

For another shrimp idea that’s light and fresh, check out our Shrimp Rice Paper Rolls for a fun dim sum-inspired twist.

Cornstarch + Buttermilk: The Secret to Crunch

What makes Bang Bang Shrimp different from typical deep-fried versions is its ultra-crispy, feather-light coating. Instead of using breadcrumbs or flour, this recipe uses a cornstarch dredge, often with a dip in buttermilk to help the coating stick better.

Cornstarch gives a glassy, golden finish that crisps up fast without absorbing too much oil. Want even more texture? Add a bit of rice flour for next-level crunch.

No buttermilk on hand? You can make your own by mixing a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice with a cup of milk—easy fix!

Bang Bang Sauce: The Creamy-Spicy Combo Ingredients

The star of the show is undoubtedly the Bang Bang sauce. It’s what makes this dish so wildly addictive.

Here’s what goes into the sauce:

Ingredient	Amount	Flavor Contribution
Mayonnaise	1/2 cup	Creamy base
Sweet Chili Sauce	1/4 cup	Tangy, sweet heat
Sriracha or Hot Sauce	1–2 tbsp	Adds the “bang”
Honey (optional)	1 tbsp	Smooths out the spice

This sauce is whisked together until smooth and creamy. Some variations include rice vinegar or a splash of lime juice to brighten it up.

Make extra—you’ll want to dip everything in it. Looking for other sweet-meets-spicy ideas? Don’t miss our Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken for a saucy main course you’ll love.

Looking for a lighter alternative? Try tossing the sauce with air-fried shrimp, and serve on lettuce wraps like our Easy Mexican Cucumber Salad for a healthier option.

Now that you’ve got your ingredients prepped, it’s time to cook. Coming up: how to get that perfect golden crisp and make your Bang Bang Shrimp restaurant-quality at home.

How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp at Home

This Bang Bang Shrimp recipe is surprisingly easy to pull off in your own kitchen—and it doesn’t require deep-frying expertise. With just a few quick steps, you’ll be biting into crispy shrimp coated in that iconic creamy, spicy sauce in no time.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Here’s exactly how to get it done:

1. Prep the Shrimp: Pat the peeled and deveined shrimp dry with paper towels. Lightly season with salt and pepper.
2. Set Up the Coating Station:
   • In one bowl: pour buttermilk.
   • In another: add cornstarch with a pinch of garlic powder.
3. Dredge and Dip: Dip each shrimp into the buttermilk, then dredge in the cornstarch, pressing to coat evenly.
4. Fry the Shrimp: Heat 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet (350°F is ideal). Fry shrimp in batches for about 2–3 minutes per side or until golden and crisp.
5. Drain and Sauce: Transfer fried shrimp to a paper towel-lined plate. While hot, gently toss them in the prepared Bang Bang sauce.
6. Serve Immediately: For best results, serve the shrimp hot so they stay crispy under the creamy coating.

Want to try this method with chicken? Don’t miss our Chicken Breast in White Wine Cream Sauce—rich, flavorful, and weeknight-friendly.

Tips for Achieving Golden, Crispy Shrimp

• Dry your shrimp: Moisture ruins the crunch. Always pat them dry.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry in small batches to avoid soggy shrimp.
• Oil temperature matters: Use a thermometer or test with a small piece—if it sizzles instantly, it’s ready.
• Toss quickly: Don’t soak the shrimp in sauce—toss, plate, and serve.

If you want an even healthier spin, use an air fryer. Our Crispy Zucchini Fritters show how amazing air-fried crunch can be with the right technique.

How to Toss Shrimp Properly in the Sauce

This is where it all comes together. You want every shrimp evenly coated without drenching them to the point of sogginess.

The trick? Add the hot, fried shrimp to a large bowl and drizzle sauce over the top. Toss gently with tongs or a spatula just until coated. Then plate immediately.

This approach ensures your shrimp stay crispy and saucy at the same time—just the way Bang Bang Shrimp should be.

Looking for an easy party-friendly dessert to serve after this bold appetizer? Check out our No-Bake Lemon Blueberry Delight for something refreshing to finish the meal.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bang Bang Shrimp

Conclusion: Why This Bang Bang Shrimp Will Be Your Go-To Party Favorite

This Bang Bang Shrimp recipe checks all the boxes: bold flavor, crispy texture, easy prep, and restaurant-level results at home. Whether you’re hosting a party, planning a date night, or just want to impress your family with something fun and flavorful, this dish brings it all.

Don’t miss our Soft Sourdough Sandwich Bread if you’re looking for the perfect homemade base for a shrimp po’boy twist on this dish.

So grab your shrimp, heat up that oil, and get ready to make the crispiest, creamiest Bang Bang Shrimp you’ve ever tasted.

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