Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe – Crispy, Creamy & Easy

Bang Bang Shrimp is the kind of dish that makes everyone stop and say, “Wait, what is this?!” One bite in, and you’re hooked—golden, crispy shrimp coated in a creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet sauce. Originally made famous by Bonefish Grill, this recipe lets you recreate that crave-worthy restaurant flavor in your own kitchen. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or making a cozy dinner for two, this recipe delivers bold flavor with every bite. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to pull off—even if you’re just getting started in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe

There’s a reason this dish has become a viral favorite—and now it’s yours to master:

• Crispy Perfection: Thanks to a panko coating and quick fry, you get that signature crunch every time.
• Bold, Creamy Flavor: The sauce is a balanced mix of sweet, spicy, and savory.
• Easy for Beginners: No fancy tools, just a few bowls and a skillet.
• Endlessly Customizable: Use it for tacos, rice bowls, or serve as a party appetizer.

With just a few steps, you’ll feel like a pro in the kitchen making your own bang bang shrimp.

The Story Behind Bang Bang Shrimp

Here’s how this iconic dish rose to fame:

• Inspired by Thai flavors, especially the use of sweet chili sauce in sauces and marinades.
• Popularized by Bonefish Grill, where it became a signature appetizer.
• The name “Bang Bang” comes from the spicy-sweet flavor punch.
• Loved worldwide, with many cultures having similar spicy-saucy shrimp dishes.

Key Ingredients in Bang Bang Shrimp

This dish is simple but flavor-packed. Here are the essentials:

• Shrimp: Large or jumbo shrimp work best for a juicy, satisfying bite.
• Buttermilk & Egg: Helps the batter cling and keeps the shrimp tender.
• Flour & Cornstarch: A combo that adds lightness and crispiness to the batter.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: Creates that addictive golden crust.
• Garlic Powder & Smoked Paprika: Adds warmth and savory depth.
• Hot Sauce: Gives the batter and sauce their signature kick.
• Sweet Chili Sauce, Mayo & Honey: These bring the sauce to life—creamy, tangy, and sweet.

How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp

Crispy shrimp meets creamy-spicy magic

1. Mix the Sauce
   Whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, hot sauce, honey, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Cover and refrigerate while you prep the shrimp.
2. Make the Batter
   In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the egg, buttermilk, and hot sauce. Mix until smooth.
3. Batter the Shrimp
   Toss cleaned shrimp into the batter and coat thoroughly. Let them sit a few minutes to soak in the flavor.
4. Bread the Shrimp
   Place panko breadcrumbs in a shallow bowl. Coat each shrimp in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently so they stick. Add more breadcrumbs as needed.
5. Heat the Oil
   Add enough oil to a deep skillet for shallow frying. Heat over medium-high until shimmering (about 350°F).
6. Fry the Shrimp
   Working in batches, fry the shrimp for about 2 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Don’t overcrowd the pan.
7. Drain and Rest
   Transfer cooked shrimp to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
8. Drizzle with Sauce
   Once slightly cooled, drizzle shrimp with your prepared bang bang sauce. Serve immediately while hot and crispy!

Bang Bang Shrimp Tips and Twists

Make this dish your own with these ideas:

Tips:

• Dry shrimp well before battering to ensure crispiness.
• Let shrimp marinate briefly in batter for better flavor.
• Use a thermometer to keep oil around 350°F.
• Drizzle sauce right before serving—don’t soak them.
• Adjust spice in the sauce to suit your heat tolerance.

Variations:

• Taco Night: Add shrimp to tortillas with slaw and avocado.
• Rice Bowl: Serve over jasmine rice with cucumbers and scallions.
• Air Fryer Option: Air fry at 400°F for 10 minutes, flipping halfway.

Storage, Reheating & Make-Ahead Tips

• Storage: Store shrimp and sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days in the fridge.
• Reheating: Reheat shrimp in an air fryer or 375°F oven to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving.
• Make-Ahead: Mix sauce and prep the batter in advance. Bread and fry shrimp just before serving for best results.

Serving Suggestions for Bang Bang Shrimp

Bang Bang Shrimp can be the star or part of something bigger:

• On Toasted Sliders: Add to small buns with shredded lettuce for quick party bites.
• In Lettuce Wraps: Perfect for a lighter, low-carb option.
• With a Side of Grilled Corn on the Cob: The smoky-sweetness complements the shrimp perfectly.
• Over a bed of Roasted Broccoli and Carrots for a nutritious twist.
• Served alongside our Simple Marry Me Chicken Pasta for a surf-and-turf style dinner.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes—just thaw, pat dry, and proceed with the recipe.

Is this recipe spicy?
It has a kick! You can dial down the heat by reducing or skipping the hot sauce.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?
Mix ¾ cup milk with 2 teaspoons vinegar or lemon juice and let sit for 5 minutes.

Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes—substitute gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.

Can I bake instead of fry?
Yes, but they won’t be as crispy. Bake at 425°F for about 15–18 minutes.

Enjoy Your Bang Bang Shrimp

There’s something seriously satisfying about creating restaurant-style Bang Bang Shrimp at home. It’s crunchy, creamy, spicy, and a total show-stopper. Whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself, this recipe is bound to become one of your go-to favorites. So grab your skillet and your appetite—because tonight, you’re the chef who brings the bang.

Explore More Recipes You’ll Love

If you’re loving this Bang Bang Shrimp, don’t stop here:

• Shrimp Carbonara – Creamy pasta loaded with shrimp and bacon.
• Quick Chicken Parm Sandwich – Crispy, cheesy, and saucy—ready in no time.
• Grilled Chicken Wraps – A lighter, protein-packed lunch option.
• Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken – Sticky-sweet flavors perfect for weeknights.
• Crispy Amish Onion Fritters – Great for serving alongside or as a crunchy snack on their own.