Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta!
Introduction
Imagine your favorite bang bang shrimp transformed into one of the creamiest and easiest pasta dishes you’ll ever make! This Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta has captured my heart—and taste buds—in a big way. After falling in love with the bang bang sauce, I decided to incorporate it into a pasta dish for a delightful twist. To my delight, it turned out to be the best bang bang recipe I’ve tried to date!
This recipe is incredibly simple. Just roast some shrimp with a hint of paprika for a smoky flavor, boil your pasta, and whip up a luscious, creamy bang bang sauce. Once everything is ready, you combine them to create a pasta dish that’s both spicy and tangy, with a refreshing kick!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Combines the beloved bang bang flavors with comforting pasta.
- Offers a delightful balance of creamy, spicy, and tangy tastes.
- Adaptable for shrimp or chicken, catering to your preference.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
Ingredients
- 1 lb of spaghetti or your favorite pasta of choice
- 1 1/2 lbs of medium shrimp, peeled and deveined (or 1 pound boneless chicken, chopped)
- 1 1/2 Tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tsp paprika
- 1 Tablespoon fresh parsley
- Black pepper to taste
For the Sauce
- 1/2 cup of Hellman’s mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup Thai sweet chili sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 Tablespoons of lime juice
- 1/4 tsp of crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/2 tablespoon onion powder
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix all the sauce ingredients together and set aside.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions and drain.
- Place the uncooked shrimp or chicken in a medium bowl, add the paprika, 3 cloves of garlic, and black pepper. Mix well to coat.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil and cook the shrimp or chicken, stirring constantly until no longer pink, about 10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shrimp/chicken, and sauce mixture, tossing well to coat everything evenly.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Ensure the shrimp are peeled and deveined for the best texture.
- Taste the sauce before adding to the pasta to adjust seasoning if needed.
- If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of crushed red pepper flakes.
Additional Tips or Variations
- Substitute chicken for shrimp if you prefer, or use both for a surf and turf twist.
- Add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for more texture and nutrients.
- Garnish with extra parsley or green onions for added freshness.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
- Calories: Approximately 450
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fat: 15g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this recipe in advance?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
What’s the best pasta type for this dish?
Spaghetti works great, but feel free to use any pasta you love, such as fettuccine or penne.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Freezing is not recommended as the sauce may separate. It’s best to enjoy this dish fresh.
Conclusion
If you’re a fan of bold flavors and creamy pasta, this Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is a must-try! It’s easy to make, incredibly tasty, and sure to impress anyone you serve it to. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below. Enjoy!