Ah, Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta! Let me tell you, this dish is one of my not-so-secret favorites! I first discovered it during a girls’ night at a trendy restaurant many years ago, and I was instantly smitten. We were laughing, sharing stories, and of course, indulging in plates of this sweet and spicy pasta. The flavor explosion is just as fabulous as the memories attached to it! It’s creamy, dreamy, and topped with those crispy, crunchy shrimp that make it feel like a party on a plate! What’s not to love?
So, whether you’re whipping up a special dinner for friends or just craving a little comfort after a long day, this Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is an easy and delicious go-to that doesn’t disappoint. Let’s jump right into it!
What’s in Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta?
Shrimp: The star of this show! I always opt for large, peeled, and deveined shrimp because they hold up well in the sauce and are easy to work with. Fresh is best, but frozen works, too—just let them thaw before cooking!
Pasta: I adore fettuccine for this dish because its broad shape holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully. However, feel free to swap in your favorite kind of pasta if you’re feeling adventurous!
Bread Crumbs: These add that crunch we all crave! I like using panko crumbs because they give an extra crispy texture. Spice them up with some garlic powder for an added flavor boost.
Mayonnaise and Sriracha: These two work together to create the bang bang sauce! The creamy mayo balances out the heat from the sriracha, giving this dish that signature kick.
Garlic and Green Onions: Fresh garlic provides a lovely aromatic base, and green onions add a pop of color and flavor. I can’t resist a good sprinkle of these on top of my finished dish!
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce luxuriously creamy. If you’re watching your calories, a lower-fat version is fine too!
Is Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta Good for You?
Now, I won’t pretend that this dish is a health food in the truest sense, but there are some redeeming qualities here!
Shrimp: These little guys are high in protein and low in calories, making them a great option for maintaining muscle and keeping you feeling full.
Pasta: Whole grain pasta can offer fiber and other nutrients if you’re looking for a healthier alternative. Just remember, moderation is key!
Heavy Cream: This is the rich part, so it’s good to balance enjoyment with portion control. And hey, you could substitute it with almond milk or a lower fat cream if you’re trying to lighten it up.
Sure, this dish isn’t going to win any awards for healthiest dinner, but it’s all about balance, right? Every now and then, we owe it to ourselves to indulge a little!
Ingredients List
– 12 oz fettuccine pasta (or your preferred pasta)
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup panko bread crumbs
– ½ cup mayonnaise
– 3-4 tablespoons sriracha, to taste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for frying
Serves up to: 4 people
How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta?
1. **Cook the Pasta**: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside when cooked al dente.
2. **Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce**: In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise and sriracha together. Taste it and add more sriracha if you prefer extra heat. Set aside.
3. **Crispy Shrimp**: In a frying pan, heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Dredge the shrimp in panko bread crumbs, pressing lightly to adhere, then add them to the pan in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.
4. **Make the Creamy Sauce**: In the same pan, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the bang bang sauce and stir until everything is nicely combined.
5. **Combine**: Toss the cooked pasta into the creamy sauce, making sure every strand is coated. Then gently fold in the crispy shrimp.
6. **Serve**: Plate the pasta, adding a sprinkle of green onions on top for a pop of color. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Flavor Enhancements and Variations
Want to jazz things up a bit more? Here are a few tips to elevate your Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta:
– **Add Veggies**: Toss in some snap peas, bell peppers, or broccoli to bring a pop of color and nutrition to your plate.
– **Zesty Twist**: A squeeze of lime or lemon juice immediately before serving brightens up the dish beautifully.
– **Garnish**: Crumbled bacon on top? Yes, please! Or how about some sesame seeds for that extra crunch?
Now that your mouth is watering and that cooking itch has you ready to dive in, I hope you’ll give this recipe a whirl! It’s guaranteed to impress and satisfy any cravings you might have.
Don’t forget to share your experiences and any fun twists you decide to try! Happy cooking, my friends!
