Known for its crispy texture, spicy-sweet sauce, and irresistible flavor, it has become a favorite at restaurants and home kitchens alike. The dish was popularized by Bonefish Grill, where it became their signature appetizer. But you don’t need to dine out to enjoy this mouthwatering treat—you can make it easily at home with just a few ingredients!
This guide will take you through everything you need to know about Bang Bang Shrimp, including its origin, ingredients, cooking methods, variations, and serving suggestions. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for a delicious new recipe to try, this article will provide step-by-step instructions to create the perfect Bang Bang Shrimp at home.
What is Bang Bang Shrimp?
Bang Bang Shrimp is a deep-fried shrimp dish that’s coated in a creamy, spicy sauce made from mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha. The name “Bang Bang” comes from the bold, explosive flavors that make every bite irresistible.
Origin of Bang Bang Shrimp
While many people associate this dish with Bonefish Grill, the concept of crispy shrimp with a spicy sauce has Asian roots. Thai and Japanese cuisine often use tempura-style shrimp paired with creamy, spicy sauces. Bonefish Grill took this concept and introduced their signature Bang Bang Sauce, turning it into a bestselling appetizer.
Why is Bang Bang Shrimp So Popular?
- Crispy and Crunchy: The shrimp is coated in cornstarch or panko breadcrumbs, creating a light and crispy texture.
- Bold and Creamy Flavor: The Bang Bang Sauce has a perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and tangy flavors.
- Easy to Make at Home: With a few simple ingredients, you can recreate this restaurant-style dish in your kitchen.
- Versatile: It can be served as an appetizer, main dish, or even in tacos, salads, and rice bowls.
Ingredients & Variations
To make Bang Bang Shrimp at home, you’ll need simple and easy-to-find ingredients. While the traditional recipe uses deep-fried shrimp and a creamy, spicy sauce, there are many ways to customize it based on your dietary preferences and flavor preferences.
Classic Ingredients for Bang Bang Shrimp
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb shrimp (medium or large, peeled and deveined)
- 1 cup buttermilk (for soaking the shrimp, helps with crispiness)
- 1 cup cornstarch or all-purpose flour (for coating, makes it light and crispy)
- 1 tsp salt & black pepper (to season the coating)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (for extra flavor)
- Vegetable oil (for frying, can use canola or peanut oil)
Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (classic base for creaminess)
- 1/4 cup Thai sweet chili sauce (adds sweetness and mild heat)
- 1 tbsp Sriracha (gives a spicy kick)
- 1 tsp lime juice (adds brightness to the sauce)
For Garnishing:
- Chopped green onions (adds color and mild onion flavor)
- Sesame seeds (for a slight crunch)
- Fresh cilantro (optional, for a fresh herby taste)
Alternative Ingredients for Dietary Needs
Bang Bang Shrimp can be adjusted to fit different diets without sacrificing flavor. Here are some easy swaps:
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch for the coating and make sure your sweet chili sauce is gluten-free.
Dairy-Free Version: Skip the buttermilk and use coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative to soak the shrimp.
Keto/Low-Carb Version: Replace the cornstarch with almond flour or crushed pork rinds for a low-carb crispy coating. Use a sugar-free sweet chili sauce in the Bang Bang Sauce.
Vegetarian Alternative: Swap the shrimp for cauliflower florets or crispy tofu for a plant-based version of Bang Bang Shrimp.
Best Shrimp Selection
Choosing the right shrimp can make a big difference in flavor and texture.
- Fresh vs. Frozen: Fresh shrimp is great, but frozen shrimp works just as well. If using frozen, thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking.
- Size Matters: Medium to large shrimp (26/30 count per pound) are ideal because they are easy to eat and stay juicy when fried.
- Wild-Caught vs. Farmed: Wild-caught shrimp generally have better flavor and texture compared to farmed shrimp.
How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp
Making Bang Bang Shrimp at home is quick and easy, but getting the perfect crispy texture requires a few key steps. Follow this step-by-step guide to achieve restaurant-quality shrimp right in your kitchen.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Shrimp
- Clean the Shrimp: If using fresh shrimp, peel and devein them. If using frozen shrimp, thaw completely and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Soak in Buttermilk: Place the shrimp in a bowl and pour buttermilk over them. Let them soak for 10-15 minutes to enhance crispiness.
Coat the Shrimp
- Prepare the Coating: In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch (or flour), salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
- Dredge the Shrimp: Remove the shrimp from the buttermilk, letting excess liquid drip off, then coat each piece in the cornstarch mixture. Shake off any excess flour.
Fry the Shrimp
- Heat the Oil: In a deep pan or skillet, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 375°F (190°C).
- Fry in Batches: Fry the shrimp in small batches (to avoid overcrowding) for 2-3 minutes per batch until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain the Shrimp: Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a wire rack or paper towel to drain excess oil.
For the crispiest results, you can take inspiration from this Shrimp Tempura recipe, which uses a light and airy batter technique.
Make the Bang Bang Sauce
- Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, honey, and lime juice until smooth.
- Taste & Adjust: If you prefer it spicier, add more Sriracha. For a milder version, reduce Sriracha and add more honey.
If you love rich and flavorful sauces, check out this Brown Gravy Recipe for another way to elevate your meals.
Toss & Serve
- Coat the Shrimp: Gently toss the crispy shrimp with just enough Bang Bang Sauce to coat them evenly.
- Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with green onions, sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro. Serve immediately for the best texture.
Pair this dish with:
- A side of garlic butter rice
- A fresh cucumber salad
- Grilled veggies for a balanced meal
- A twist on another classic, like Bruschetta Chicken, for a flavorful dinner combination.
Tips for Perfect Crispiness
Pat Shrimp Dry: Excess moisture can make the coating soggy—dry them well before coating.
Use Cornstarch Instead of Flour: It creates a lighter and crunchier crust.
Fry at the Right Temperature: Keep oil at 375°F (190°C)—if it’s too hot, shrimp will burn; too low, they’ll be greasy.
Fry in Batches: Overcrowding lowers oil temperature, leading to soggy shrimp.
Toss in Sauce Right Before Serving: This prevents the shrimp from getting soggy.
Alternative Cooking Methods
If you want to skip deep-frying, here are healthier ways to cook Bang Bang Shrimp:
Air Fryer Method (Healthier & Less Oil!)
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Spray shrimp with a light coating of oil before air-frying.
- Cook in a single layer for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Oven-Baked Method
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Place coated shrimp on a wire rack over a baking sheet and spray lightly with oil.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy.
The Signature Bang Bang Sauce
The Bang Bang Sauce is what makes this dish so special—a creamy, slightly spicy, and sweet sauce that perfectly coats the crispy shrimp. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make with just a few ingredients!
Ingredients & Flavor Profile
The sauce is a balance of creamy, spicy, and sweet flavors:
- Mayonnaise (½ cup) – The base of the sauce, giving it a creamy texture.
- Thai Sweet Chili Sauce (¼ cup) – Adds sweetness and mild heat.
- Sriracha (1 tbsp) – Provides a spicy kick.
- Honey (1 tsp, optional) – Adds a touch of sweetness.
- Lime Juice (1 tsp) – Enhances the flavor with a bit of acidity.
This sauce is smooth, creamy, and bold, complementing the crispy shrimp perfectly.
How to Make the Best Bang Bang Sauce
- In a bowl, whisk together all the ingredients until smooth.
- Taste and adjust the spice level—add more Sriracha for extra heat or honey for more sweetness.
- Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
🔹 Pro Tip: You can make this sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 5 days!
Bang Bang Sauce Variations
You can customize the Bang Bang Sauce based on your preferences:
Spicy Version – Add extra Sriracha or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Mild Version – Reduce the Sriracha and add more sweet chili sauce.
Vegan Option – Swap regular mayonnaise for vegan mayo.
Keto Version – Use sugar-free sweet chili sauce.
This sauce is not just for shrimp! You can also use it as a dip for fries, chicken, or even as a salad dressing.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Bang Bang Shrimp is delicious on its own, but pairing it with the right sides and presentation takes it to the next level! Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, main dish, or in a creative way, here are some of the best ways to enjoy it.
Best Side Dishes for Bang Bang Shrimp
Since Bang Bang Shrimp is crispy and rich, it pairs well with light, refreshing sides that balance the flavors:
Steamed Jasmine Rice – A simple base that absorbs the sauce’s flavors.
Crispy French Fries or Sweet Potato Fries – Perfect for dipping in extra Bang Bang Sauce.
Asian Slaw – A mix of shredded cabbage, carrots, and a light vinaigrette to add crunch.
Garlic Butter Noodles – A rich yet simple complement to the shrimp.
Coconut Rice – Slightly sweet, aromatic rice that pairs beautifully with the spicy sauce.
Grilled Vegetables – Asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers provide a healthy balance.
How to Present Bang Bang Shrimp
As an Appetizer: Serve in a small bowl with toothpicks or skewers for easy dipping.
As a Main Dish: Serve on a bed of rice or noodles with a side salad.
In Tacos: Place shrimp in warm tortillas, add slaw, and drizzle extra Bang Bang Sauce.
On a Salad: Toss over a bed of romaine lettuce, avocado, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes.
In a Rice Bowl: Serve over rice with steamed broccoli, sesame seeds, and extra sauce.
Drinks & Cocktails That Pair Well
Since Bang Bang Shrimp has a spicy kick, pair it with refreshing drinks:
🍹 Classic Margaritas – The citrus cuts through the spiciness.
🍺 Light Beers (Lager or Pilsner) – Refreshing and crisp.
🍷 Chilled White Wine (Sauvignon Blanc or Riesling) – Balances the heat.
🍵 Iced Green Tea or Thai Iced Tea – A non-alcoholic option that cools the palate.
Nutritional Information & Dietary Considerations
While Bang Bang Shrimp is undeniably delicious, it’s also fried and creamy, which means it can be high in calories and fat. However, there are ways to make it healthier without sacrificing flavor!
Calories & Macros (Per Serving)
A standard serving of Bang Bang Shrimp (about 6-8 pieces with sauce) contains approximately:
Calories: 400-500 kcal
Protein: 20g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fats: 25g
Sodium: 900mg
💡 Keep in Mind: The calories and fat mainly come from frying the shrimp and the mayonnaise-based sauce.
How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp Healthier
Bake or Air Fry Instead of Deep Frying – Baking or air frying reduces oil and calories while still keeping the shrimp crispy.
Use Greek Yogurt Instead of Mayo – Substituting mayo with plain Greek yogurt cuts calories and adds protein.
Opt for Whole-Wheat or Gluten-Free Flour – A fiber-rich alternative to white flour.
Use Less Sauce – Instead of coating all the shrimp, serve the sauce on the side for dipping.
Serve Over Greens Instead of Rice – Making a Bang Bang Shrimp Salad is a lighter option.
Gluten-Free & Keto Options
If you have dietary restrictions, here’s how to modify the recipe:
Make sure the sweet chili sauce is gluten-free.
Keto Version: Use crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs or flour. Swap the sweet chili sauce for a sugar-free version.
Low-Calorie Version: Use air-fried shrimp and Greek yogurt-based sauce instead of mayo.
Popular Variations & Restaurant-Inspired Recipes
While the classic Bang Bang Shrimp recipe is famous for its crispy texture and spicy sauce, there are several creative variations that add a unique twist! From copycat Bonefish Grill versions to spicier Asian-inspired takes, here are some must-try variations.
1. Bonefish Grill Copycat Recipe (Most Authentic)
The Bonefish Grill version is what made Bang Bang Shrimp famous. To replicate their exact taste:
- Use buttermilk for soaking – It adds extra tenderness.
- Use cornstarch (not flour) for crispiness – This creates the lightest, crunchiest coating.
- Use extra Thai sweet chili sauce – It enhances the sweetness in the sauce.
💡 Pro Tip: Serve it in a small bowl over shredded lettuce like they do at Bonefish Grill!
2. Spicy Thai-Inspired Bang Bang Shrimp
If you love bold, fiery flavors, try this Thai-inspired version:
- Add extra Sriracha or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
- Garnish with fresh Thai basil and crushed peanuts for an authentic touch.
- Serve with sticky rice or in lettuce wraps for a lighter option.
🔥 Spicy Level: Extra Hot!
3. Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos 🌮
One of the most popular ways to enjoy Bang Bang Shrimp is in tacos! Here’s how:
- Use small flour or corn tortillas.
- Add shredded cabbage or coleslaw for crunch.
- Drizzle with extra Bang Bang Sauce and sprinkle with fresh cilantro and lime juice.
Perfect for Taco Tuesday!
4. Bang Bang Cauliflower (Vegetarian Version)
If you’re looking for a meat-free alternative, try Bang Bang Cauliflower:
- Use cauliflower florets instead of shrimp.
- Coat in cornstarch and panko breadcrumbs for crispiness.
- Air fry or bake instead of frying for a healthier version.
Even meat-lovers will enjoy this delicious vegetarian twist!
5. Low-Carb & Keto Bang Bang Shrimp
For a low-carb or keto version, make these swaps:
- Replace sweet chili sauce with a sugar-free version.
- Serve over cauliflower rice or in lettuce wraps instead of regular rice or tacos.
A guilt-free way to enjoy Bang Bang Shrimp while staying keto-friendly!
6. Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta 🍝
For a comfort food twist, turn Bang Bang Shrimp into a creamy pasta dish:
- Toss cooked linguine or spaghetti in Bang Bang Sauce.
- Add sautéed shrimp and mix well.
- Garnish with Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
A spicy, creamy, and indulgent pasta that seafood lovers will adore!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Bang Bang Shrimp?
Bang Bang Shrimp is a crispy fried shrimp dish coated in a creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet sauce made from mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha. It was popularized by Bonefish Grill as their signature appetizer but can also be made at home. The dish is known for its light, crunchy texture and bold flavor.
2. What is Bang Bang Sauce made of?
Bang Bang Sauce is a creamy, spicy, and tangy sauce that consists of:
- Mayonnaise – The base of the sauce, making it rich and creamy.
- Thai Sweet Chili Sauce – Adds a touch of sweetness and mild heat.
- Sriracha – Brings the spicy kick.
- Honey (Optional) – Provides a little extra sweetness.
- Lime Juice – Enhances the flavor with a slight tang.
This sauce is not only great for Bang Bang Shrimp but also works as a dip for fries, a dressing for salads, or a drizzle over tacos.
3. Why is it called Bang Bang?
The name “Bang Bang” comes from the bold, explosive flavors of the dish. The combination of crispy shrimp and spicy sauce creates a burst of flavor in every bite, which is likely why it was named this way. The name also makes the dish sound exciting and fun, contributing to its popularity.
4. What’s the difference between Bang Bang Shrimp and Boom Boom Shrimp?
Both Bang Bang Shrimp and Boom Boom Shrimp are crispy shrimp dishes with a creamy, spicy sauce, but they have a few key differences:
| Feature | Bang Bang Shrimp | Boom Boom Shrimp |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Bonefish Grill made it famous | More common in Asian-fusion restaurants |
| Sauce Ingredients | Mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha | Mayonnaise, ketchup, hot sauce, garlic |
| Flavor Profile | Creamy, sweet, and spicy | More tangy, garlicky, and slightly smoky |
| Heat Level | Mild to medium | Can be spicier, depending on hot sauce used |
| Common Serving Style | Over shredded lettuce, in tacos, or with rice | Often served with fries, sandwiches, or seafood platters |
💡 Main Difference: Bang Bang Shrimp has a Thai-inspired sauce, while Boom Boom Shrimp has a more American-style, tangy and garlicky sauce.
Conclusion
Bang Bang Shrimp is more than just a delicious appetizer—it’s a dish that combines crispy texture, bold flavors, and creamy spice into a truly addictive bite. Whether you’re making a copycat Bonefish Grill version, a spicier Thai-inspired twist, or even a vegetarian alternative with cauliflower, this recipe is easy to customize to fit your taste and dietary preferences.
From serving it in tacos, on a salad, or over rice, to exploring healthier cooking methods like air frying or baking, Bang Bang Shrimp is a versatile dish that everyone can enjoy. And let’s not forget the iconic Bang Bang Sauce, which takes the flavor to the next level!
Now that you know how to make Bang Bang Shrimp at home, it’s time to grab your ingredients and give it a try. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion, a game night, or just craving something crispy and delicious, this dish will always be a hit.
💡 Pro Tip: Make extra sauce because you’ll want to dip everything in it! 😋
🔥 Bang Bang Shrimp – Crispy, Spicy, and Addictive! 🍤
Equipment
- ✔ Mixing bowls (for batter and sauce)
- ✔ Deep frying pan or skillet (for frying)
- ✔ Tongs or slotted spoon (for flipping and removing shrimp)
- ✔ Paper towels or wire rack (for draining excess oil)
- ✔ Whisk (for mixing the sauce)
Ingredients
- For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb shrimp medium or large, peeled & deveined
- 1 cup buttermilk for soaking
- 1 cup cornstarch for coating
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Vegetable oil for frying
- For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp Sriracha adjust for spice preference
- 1 tsp honey optional
- 1 tsp lime juice
- For Garnishing & Serving:
- Green onions chopped
- Sesame seeds optional
- Fresh cilantro optional
- Shredded lettuce or slaw for serving
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Place shrimp in a bowl and soak in buttermilk for 10-15 minutes (this enhances crispiness).
- Step 2: Coat the Shrimp
- In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
- Remove shrimp from buttermilk, letting excess drip off, then coat in cornstarch mixture, shaking off excess.
- Step 3: Fry the Shrimp
- Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
- Fry shrimp in small batches for 2-3 minutes per batch, until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove shrimp with tongs and drain on a wire rack or paper towels.
- Step 4: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
- In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, honey, and lime juice. Adjust spice and sweetness as needed.
- Step 5: Toss & Serve
- Gently toss the fried shrimp in the sauce until evenly coated.
- Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro.
- Serve immediately over shredded lettuce, in tacos, or with rice.
Notes
✔ Make it healthier by baking at 425°F (220°C) for 12-15 minutes or air-frying at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes.
✔ Adjust spice level by adding more or less Sriracha to the sauce.