Name: Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Ingredients: ½ cup mayonnaise; ½ cup sweet Thai chili sauce; Juice of 1 lime; 1½ teaspoons sriracha sauce; 8 ounces spaghetti noodles, cooked and drained; 12 ounces medium shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1½ tablespoons olive oil (or coconut oil); 1 tablespoon fresh minced garlic; 2 teaspoons smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper; ⅛ teaspoon red pepper flakes; Fresh chopped parsley or cilantro (optional garnish)

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Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is a bold, flavor-packed dish that brings together tender shrimp, al dente spaghetti, and a creamy, spicy-sweet sauce that clings to every strand of pasta. Inspired by the famous versions from the Cheesecake Factory and Bonefish Grill, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality taste in just 20 minutes. It’s perfect for a fast dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor or comfort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how quickly this dish comes together—perfect for busy nights when I still want something satisfying. The sauce is creamy, tangy, and has just the right amount of heat to wake up the taste buds without overpowering the shrimp. I can tweak the spice level to my liking and even switch out the protein if I’m in the mood for something different. Plus, it feels indulgent but is still easy enough to make anytime.

Ingredients

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

½ cup mayonnaise
½ cup sweet Thai chili sauce
Juice of 1 lime
1½ teaspoons sriracha sauce
8 ounces spaghetti noodles, cooked and drained
12 ounces medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
1½ tablespoons olive oil (or coconut oil)
1 tablespoon fresh minced garlic
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
½ teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
⅛ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Fresh chopped parsley or cilantro (optional garnish)

Directions

I start by cooking the spaghetti noodles according to the package directions. Once they’re done, I drain them and set them aside.
While the pasta cooks, I whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet Thai chili sauce, lime juice, and sriracha to make the signature bang bang sauce.
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, I heat the olive oil and sauté the shrimp along with garlic, paprika, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. I cook them for about 3–5 minutes until they’re pink and cooked through.
I reduce the heat to low and toss in the cooked spaghetti noodles.
Then I pour the bang bang sauce right into the skillet and stir everything together until the noodles and shrimp are well coated.
Just before serving, I like to sprinkle on some chopped parsley or cilantro for a fresh finish.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings and is ready in just 20 minutes. It takes about 10 minutes to prep and another 10 minutes to cook, which makes it ideal for weeknights when I need dinner on the table fast.

Variations

When I want to mix things up, I sometimes swap the shrimp with scallops or even chicken. If I’m aiming for a lighter version, I use Greek yogurt or sour cream in place of mayonnaise. I can also turn up the heat with more sriracha or red pepper flakes, or tone it down for a milder bite. For a gluten-free option, I just use rice noodles or any gluten-free pasta I have on hand.

storage/reheating

If I have leftovers, I store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When I reheat the pasta, I usually add a splash of water or milk to help loosen the sauce and keep it creamy. I reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring between each.

FAQs

What kind of shrimp should I use for bang bang shrimp pasta?

I prefer medium peeled and deveined shrimp because they cook quickly and evenly. I also use frozen shrimp when I’m in a pinch—just make sure to thaw them first.

Can I make this recipe less spicy?

Yes, I reduce the sriracha or leave out the red pepper flakes to make it milder. The sweet Thai chili sauce still gives it great flavor without too much heat.

Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?

Absolutely. I use a dairy-free mayo or plain vegan yogurt as a substitute for regular mayonnaise to keep it creamy and still flavorful.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Definitely. I’ve made it with linguine, fettuccine, and even angel hair. Any long pasta will work, so I use what I have on hand.

How do I keep the shrimp from getting rubbery?

I cook the shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque—usually around 3 to 5 minutes. Overcooking can make them tough, so I keep a close eye on them.

Conclusion

Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is a go-to dish in my kitchen when I want something quick, spicy, and seriously satisfying. It’s flexible, flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether I’m cooking for myself or serving guests, this pasta delivers big on taste with minimal effort.

Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta

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Author: Sue
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Diet: Halal

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Description

Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta combines tender spaghetti with seasoned shrimp and a creamy, spicy sauce made from mayo, sweet Thai chili sauce, lime, and sriracha. Inspired by Cheesecake Factory and Bonefish Grill, it’s a quick, flavorful dinner ready in 20 minutes.

Instructions

Cook spaghetti noodles according to package directions, then drain and set aside.
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet Thai chili sauce, lime juice, and sriracha to make the bang bang sauce. Set aside.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook 3–5 minutes until shrimp are pink and opaque.
Reduce heat to low and add the cooked spaghetti noodles to the skillet.
Pour the bang bang sauce over the pasta and shrimp, tossing until evenly coated.
Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro before serving.

Notes

You can use frozen shrimp; thaw quickly by soaking in cold water for 20 minutes.
Peeled and deveined shrimp save prep time.
Substitute mayo with Greek yogurt, cream cheese, heavy cream, or sour cream if preferred.
Scallops can replace shrimp for a variation.
Adjust spice level by increasing or decreasing sriracha and red pepper flakes.