Are you ready to whip up a delicious Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta? This meal is not only quick but packed with flavor, perfect for busy weeknights. With shrimp that’s crispy and a creamy sauce that’s to die for, you’ll want this dish on repeat. Join me as I guide you through easy steps to create this mouthwatering pasta in no time. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get started!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup mayonnaise
Seasonings and Sauces
– 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 3 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
– 1 tablespoon Sriracha
Additional Ingredients
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
– Chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta needs simple yet tasty ingredients. First, you will use either linguine or spaghetti. This will be the base of your dish. The large shrimp gives it a nice, meaty texture. Using buttermilk helps the shrimp stay juicy. The flour creates a crispy coating. Mayonnaise brings creaminess to the sauce.
For flavor, we use cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Sweet chili sauce adds sweetness and heat. Sriracha gives it a spicy kick. The fresh garlic adds rich flavor. Olive oil helps cook the shrimp perfectly. Cherry tomatoes add a pop of color and freshness. Green onions and cilantro make great garnishes.
This dish is not just tasty; it is also quick to make. You can find the full recipe to help you through the steps.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
– Bring salted water to a boil.
– Cook linguine or spaghetti according to package instructions.
– Drain and reserve half a cup of pasta water.
Cooking pasta is easy! You want it to be al dente, which means it should be firm but not hard. This texture helps the pasta hold up with the sauce.
Preparing the Shrimp
– Create a marinade with buttermilk and seasonings.
– Marinate shrimp for 15 minutes.
Marinating shrimp adds lots of flavor. The buttermilk helps keep the shrimp tender. You can mix it with cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper for a tasty blend.
Coating and Cooking the Shrimp
– Dredge marinated shrimp in flour.
– Fry shrimp in a skillet until golden brown.
– Drain on a paper towel.
Coating the shrimp in flour gives them a crispy crust. Fry shrimp in hot oil for about 2-3 minutes on each side. They should turn a nice golden color. After cooking, place them on a paper towel to soak up any extra oil.
Making the Bang Bang Sauce
– Whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha.
The Bang Bang sauce is simple and delicious! Just mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha for a creamy and spicy kick. You can add more or less Sriracha based on your taste.
Combining Pasta and Shrimp
– Sauté garlic in the skillet.
– Add pasta, cherry tomatoes, and reserved water.
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. This step adds great flavor. Next, toss in the cooked pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, and saved pasta water. Mix well to combine everything.
Final Assembly
– Toss pasta with Bang Bang sauce and crispy shrimp.
– Garnish and serve.
Once the pasta and shrimp are together, drizzle the Bang Bang sauce over them. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. Finish by garnishing with sliced green onions and fresh cilantro for a burst of color and flavor.
For the full recipe, check out the details above! Enjoy this quick and tasty meal!
Tips & Tricks
Selecting the Right Shrimp
When choosing shrimp, you can go for fresh or frozen. Fresh shrimp often has a better taste. However, frozen shrimp can be just as good if handled right. Look for large shrimp, around 21-25 count per pound. They cook well and stay juicy in the pasta.
Perfecting the Sauce
You can adjust spice levels in the Bang Bang sauce. If you want it milder, use less Sriracha. For more heat, add a little extra. To make a richer sauce, mix in a bit more mayonnaise or sweet chili sauce. This adds creaminess and flavor.
Cooking Pasta
Cooking pasta to al dente is key. This means it should be firm when you bite into it. If you prefer softer pasta, cook it a little longer. Always save some pasta water. It helps to thin the sauce later and makes the dish stick together.
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can easily change a few ingredients in Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta. First, try using whole wheat or gluten-free pasta. This swap keeps the dish healthy and fits different diets. Whole wheat pasta adds a nutty flavor, while gluten-free options work for those with allergies.
If you want to switch out shrimp, that works too! Chicken is a great alternative. Just cut it into bite-sized pieces and cook it like the shrimp. If you want a plant-based option, tofu is perfect. Use firm tofu, and pan-fry it until golden for a great bite.
Flavor Enhancements
Adding veggies can boost the flavor and nutrition of your dish. Bell peppers add crunch and color. Broccoli is another good choice, bringing a nice texture. You can toss them in while cooking the shrimp for added taste.
Experimenting with sauces can also change the game. Instead of the classic Bang Bang sauce, try teriyaki for a sweet twist. If you love creamy sauces, mix in some Alfredo or a cheese sauce for richness. This allows you to create your own version of Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your pasta with side dishes to make a full meal. A fresh salad can add a bright note. Garlic bread is another option. It’s perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
For a quick and easy meal, consider making it a one-pot dish. After cooking the pasta, add all the ingredients back into the same pot. This saves on cleanup and keeps all the flavors together. You can find the Full Recipe to guide you in this delicious journey!
Storage Info
Refrigeration Tips
To keep your Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta fresh, store leftovers in airtight containers. This helps lock in flavor and moisture. You can enjoy it for up to three days in the fridge. Make sure it cools to room temperature before sealing.
Reheating Methods
When reheating pasta dishes, use a gentle heat to avoid overcooking. I recommend using the stovetop. Add a splash of water or broth to help keep it moist. Stir often to prevent sticking. Avoid microwaving if you can, as it can make the pasta soggy.
Freezing Suggestions
You can freeze Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta, but it’s best to freeze the shrimp and pasta separately. This keeps each component fresh. If you freeze the whole dish, it may change texture. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight. Reheat on low heat, adding a bit of water to maintain moisture.
FAQs
Can I make Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep some parts in advance. Cook the pasta and let it cool. Store it in the fridge. You can also marinate the shrimp ahead of time. Keep it in the fridge for up to 2 hours. Make the Bang Bang sauce and store it in a sealed container. This way, you save time when you are ready to cook!
What can I use instead of mayonnaise in the sauce?
If you want a creamy sauce but lack mayonnaise, use Greek yogurt. It gives a nice tang and creaminess. Sour cream is another option. For a dairy-free choice, try avocado or a vegan mayo. Each alternative adds a different flavor but keeps the sauce rich.
Is Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta spicy?
Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta has a nice kick. The spice comes from Sriracha and cayenne pepper. Adjust the heat to fit your taste. Add less Sriracha for a mild dish. If you love heat, feel free to add more. You control the spice!
Can I substitute the shrimp with another protein?
Absolutely! Chicken works well in this dish. Cut it into small pieces and cook it like shrimp. Tofu is a great vegan option. Use firm tofu and follow the same cooking method. Both options will soak up the Bang Bang sauce nicely.
How do I know when the shrimp are fully cooked?
Cooked shrimp turn pink and opaque. They curl slightly when done. Each shrimp needs about 2-3 minutes per side. Avoid overcooking, as shrimp can get tough. If they look nice and firm, they are ready for the pasta!
In this blog post, we explored how to make delicious Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta. We covered key ingredients, step-by-step cooking methods, and tips for success. You can use fresh or frozen shrimp and adjust the spice to your liking. With the right techniques, your meal will impress. Remember to make use of leftovers and consider variations. This dish is easy to customize and perfect for sharing with family or friends. Enjoy your cooking adventure and savor the flavors of Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta!
