Bang Bang Shrimp (Crispy, Creamy & Better Than Takeout)

If you’re looking for a crispy shrimp recipe that disappears fast, this Bang Bang Shrimp is the one. Juicy shrimp are lightly breaded, fried until golden, and tossed in a creamy, sweet-and-spicy sauce that hits all the right notes. It’s one of those fried shrimp appetizers that works just as well as a shrimp dinner for a crowd, a game day shrimp recipe, or a fun alternative to coconut shrimp.

This dish is famous for a reason it’s bold, addictive, and incredibly easy to make at home. Whether you serve it as an appetizer, main dish, or party platter, Bang Bang Shrimp is always a hit.

table of contents

Why This Bang Bang Shrimp Works

• Perfect balance of crispy + creamy + spicy
• Great for shrimp dishes for a crowd
• Ready in under 30 minutes
• Easy to customize (fried or baked)
• Pork-free and family-friendly

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Cuisine: American-Chinese
• Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled & deveined (tails removed)
• ½ cup buttermilk
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp onion powder
• ¾ cup cornstarch
• Neutral oil for frying

For the Bang Bang Sauce

• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 1½ tbsp sweet chili sauce
• 1–2 tsp sriracha (to taste)

Pork Substitutions & Notes

This recipe is 100% pork-free.
If you usually see bacon or pork-based sauces in fried shrimp recipes, this version skips all of that without sacrificing flavor.

Baked Bang Bang Shrimp option:
Bake breaded shrimp at 425°F (220°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping once.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Marinate the Shrimp

In a bowl, combine shrimp, buttermilk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Let marinate for 10 minutes.

2. Bread the Shrimp

Place cornstarch in a shallow dish. Dredge shrimp one at a time, shaking off excess.

3. Fry Until Crispy

Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry shrimp in batches for about 2 minutes per side until golden. Drain on paper towels.

4. Make the Sauce

In a large bowl, whisk mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha until smooth.

5. Toss & Serve

Add hot shrimp to the sauce and toss gently until coated. Serve immediately.

What Goes With Fried Shrimp?

This Bang Bang Shrimp pairs perfectly with:

• Steamed rice or fried rice
• Slaw or Asian cucumber salad
• Sweet potato fries
• Coconut shrimp sides
• Lettuce wraps for a lighter option

Pro Tips for Perfect Bang Bang Shrimp

• Pat shrimp dry before marinating for extra crispiness
• Fry in small batches to keep oil hot
• Toss shrimp in sauce just before serving
• Want less heat? Reduce sriracha
• Want more crunch? Double-coat shrimp

Conclusion

This Bang Bang Shrimp recipe proves that restaurant-style shrimp dishes are easy to make at home. Crispy, saucy, and endlessly craveable, it’s perfect for game day shrimp recipes, party appetizers, or a fun fried shrimp dinner. Once you make it, don’t be surprised if it becomes your most-requested shrimp dish.