why make this recipe
Bang Bang Shrimp is a fun and flavorful dish that brings a taste of the coast right to your kitchen. It’s easy to make and packed with crispy, spicy shrimp coated in a creamy sauce. Perfect for a quick dinner or as an appetizer for gatherings, everyone will love the crunch and the slight heat. If you’re looking to impress guests or just want a special meal, this recipe fits the bill!
how to make Bang Bang Shrimp
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails removed)
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 3/4 cup corn starch
- 1/4 cup high-quality mayonnaise
- 1 ½ tablespoons Thai sweet chili sauce
- 1-2 teaspoons Sriracha hot sauce (or to taste)
Directions:
- In a medium bowl, combine the shrimp, buttermilk, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Let this marinate for 10 minutes.
- Add the cornstarch to a shallow dish or bowl.
- Working one at a time, pull a piece of shrimp out of the dredge, shake off excess, then dredge in the cornstarch. Transfer to a baking sheet while you bread the rest.
- Heat 1 ½ inches of oil to 350°F in a large pot. Fry the shrimp in 3 batches for 2 minutes until golden brown on the outside. The internal temperature of the shrimp should reach 145°F. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
- In a large bowl, add the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Stir with a spoon, then dump in the fried shrimp. Toss to evenly coat and enjoy!
how to serve Bang Bang Shrimp
Bang Bang Shrimp can be served in many ways. You can enjoy it on its own as a snack or appetizer. For a complete meal, serve it over rice or salad. Garnishing with chopped green onions or sesame seeds adds a nice touch.
how to store Bang Bang Shrimp
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, use an oven or an air fryer to retain the crispiness instead of a microwave.
tips to make Bang Bang Shrimp
- Ensure the oil is hot enough (350°F) before frying to get a crispy coating.
- Don’t overcrowd the pot while frying, as it can lower the oil temperature.
- Adjust the Sriracha to your liking for more or less heat.
- For extra crunch, you can double coat the shrimp by dipping them in the buttermilk and cornstarch twice.
variation
You can create variations by adding different spices to the coating or using different sauces. Try using garlic aioli or a spicy ranch dressing for a different flavor twist!
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating.Is there a substitute for buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can use milk mixed with a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice as a substitute.Can I bake Bang Bang Shrimp instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake them. Preheat the oven to 425°F, place the breaded shrimp on a baking sheet, and spray with cooking oil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Enjoy making this delightful Bang Bang Shrimp recipe and impress everyone with your cooking skills!

Bang Bang Shrimp
Ingredients
Shrimp and Coating
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails removed
- 1/2 cup buttermilk Can substitute with milk and vinegar or lemon juice
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 3/4 cup corn starch
Sauce
- 1/4 cup high-quality mayonnaise
- 1 ½ tbsp Thai sweet chili sauce
- 1-2 tsp Sriracha hot sauce Adjust for heat preference
Instructions
Preparation
- In a medium bowl, combine the shrimp, buttermilk, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Let this marinate for 10 minutes.
- Add the cornstarch to a shallow dish or bowl.
- Working one at a time, pull a piece of shrimp out of the dredge, shake off excess, then dredge in the cornstarch. Transfer to a baking sheet while you bread the rest.
Cooking
- Heat 1 ½ inches of oil to 350°F in a large pot.
- Fry the shrimp in 3 batches for 2 minutes until golden brown on the outside. Ensure the internal temperature of the shrimp reaches 145°F.
- Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
Sauce Preparation
- In a large bowl, add the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Stir with a spoon.
- Dump in the fried shrimp and toss to evenly coat.