Easy Bang Bang Shrimp

Last Updated on September 27, 2025 by Soul Food Cooking

If you love the bold flavors of restaurant-style Bang Bang Shrimp, then you’re in for a treat! This recipe delivers all the crunch and saucy goodness of the original right from your kitchen. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, main course, or party bite, Bang Bang Shrimp is a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist.

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Ingredients for Bang Bang Shrimp

• Shrimp: Shrimp is the star of the show. Make sure to pick a proper sized shrimp for this recipe (see chart).
• Buttermilk: Buttermilk is used to help the coating stick to the shrimp.
• Eggs: Eggs are the binding agent that helps the flour and cornstarch mixture adhere to the shrimp.
• Cornstarch: Cornstarch is used to help form a crispy, light texture to the shrimp coating when fried.
• All-Purpose Flour: All-Purpose Flour along with the cornstarch helps achieve a golden crust.
• Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise is the cream base of the bang bang sauce.
• Sweet Chili Sauce: Sweet Chili adds a sweet and mild spicy kick to the sauce balancing the flavors.
• Sriracha Chili Sauce: Sriracha Chili Sauce puts the bang bang in the shrimp with it’s kick of spice sauce.
• Soy Sauce: Soy Sauce enhances the sauce with a salty, umami flavor.
• Vegetable Oil: Used for frying the shrimp to a crispy, golden brown finish.
• Scallions: Scallions used for garnishing, adds a mild onion flavor and a welcomed pop of color.

Substitutions

If you don’t have Buttermilk you can make your own by combining regular milk with one tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar for every cup of milk. Allow it to sit for 5–10 mins before using. Cornstarch can be replaced with Potato starch, arrowroot powder, or tapioca starch. Below are a few other substitutions

All-Purpose Flour → Gluten-free flour blend or rice flour (for extra crispiness)

Mayonnaise → Greek yogurt, sour cream, or a vegan mayo substitute

Sweet Chili Sauce → Honey + a dash of hot sauce and a splash of rice vinegar

Sriracha Chili Sauce → Chili garlic sauce, hot sauce, or crushed red pepper mixed into the sauce

Soy Sauce → Tamari (for gluten-free) or coconut aminos (for a soy-free option)

Vegetable Oil → Canola oil, peanut oil, or avocado oil (all good for high-heat frying)

What You Will Need

• Mixing Bowl
• Wire Rack
• Frying Pan
• Cooking Utensils

Watch Me Make Delicious Bang Bang Shrimp

Instructions for Bang Bang Shrimp

Step 1: Preparing the Bang Bang Sauce

When it come to bang bang shrimp the sauce is everything. To make it grab a small bowl and combine the mayonnaise and sweet chili sauce. Stir in the sriracha chili sauce until everything is well blended. Adjust sriracha to taste if you prefer a spicier sauce. Set aside.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Coating

In a separate dish, combine the cornstarch and flour. Stir until thoroughly mixed and set aside.

Step 3: Marinate the Shrimp

Place the shrimp in a large bowl. Add the soy sauce, tossing the shrimp to coat. Whisk together the eggs and buttermilk, then pour this mixture over the shrimp. Stir until the shrimp are evenly coated.

Step 4: Dredge the Shrimp

Working in batches, remove the shrimp from the egg–buttermilk mixture, letting any excess drip off. Coat each shrimp in the cornstarch–flour mixture. Place the coated shrimp on a wire rack or plate to rest while you heat the oil.

Step 5: Fry the Shrimp

In a skillet or deep pan, heat vegetable oil to medium heat (approximately 350°F/175°C). Carefully add the shrimp in small batches and fry for about 2 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove the cooked shrimp with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 6: Toss in the Sauce

Transfer the fried shrimp to a large bowl. Pour the Bang Bang Sauce over the shrimp. Using a spatula, gently toss the shrimp until they are well coated.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Serve the Bang Bang Shrimp immediately. Garnish with scallions for a pop of color and extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Bang Bang Shrimp is the perfect centerpiece for a fun and flavorful meal. To round out your plate, serve it with a side of steamed or fried rice to help balance the kick. It also pairs beautifully with coleslaw or a garden salad. For something heartier, try serving it alongside garlic noodles, fried cabbage, or dirty rice. Bang Bang Shrimp is great in tacos, wraps, or even on top of a salad. No matter how you serve it, the key is to complement its spicy, creamy kick with sides that add freshness, crunch, or a little sweetness.

What to Do With Leftover Bang Bang Shrimp

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, avoid the microwave, which can make them rubbery—instead, use an air fryer or oven set to 375°F for about 5–7 minutes to help bring back their crispiness. For best results, store the sauce separately and re-coat the shrimp after reheating.

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• Bourbon Chicken
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