I remember the first time I tried Bang Bang Shrimp at a restaurant. The crispy coating paired with that creamy, spicy sauce was unforgettable. Every bite was a mix of crunchy and creamy, making it such a delightful experience. Now, I can make my own version at home using an air fryer, which makes it a bit healthier without sacrificing any flavor. This recipe matters because it’s not just about food; it’s about bringing joy to our meals. You’ll love how quick and easy it is to whip up a heaping plate of these delicious shrimp. What makes this recipe special is the perfect blend of crispy shrimp and that sweet, spicy sauce that you can adjust to your own taste.
why make this recipe
Using an air fryer to make Bang Bang Shrimp means you get a deliciously crispy texture without deep frying. This method uses less oil, making it a healthier option while still providing that satisfying crunch. Plus, the smoky, slightly spicy sauce brings everything together nicely. It’s a great dish for a quick dinner, a party, or just to enjoy on a cozy night in. Whether you’re a shrimp lover or just looking for a fun recipe to try, this one is sure to impress.
how to make Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp
Ingredients
- 1 pound jumbo shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1/2 cup flour or cornstarch (cornstarch preferred for crispier results)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 egg (beaten)
- Olive oil cooking spray (such as Pam olive oil spray)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or light mayo)
- 1/3 cup sweet Thai chili sauce
- 2 tbsp Sriracha (adjust to taste)
Directions
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet Thai chili sauce, and Sriracha until smooth and combined. Taste and adjust the heat if needed. You can make this sauce up to a day in advance.
- Pat the peeled, deveined shrimp dry with paper towels. This step is key for making the coating stick properly.
- In a shallow bowl, mix the flour or cornstarch with salt and pepper. In another shallow bowl, beat the egg.
- One at a time, dip each shrimp into the egg wash, letting the extra drip off. Then, press it into the seasoned flour or cornstarch until it’s covered on all sides. Place each coated shrimp on a clean plate.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–4 minutes. A hot basket helps the coating crisp up right away.
- Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overlapping. A standard basket can fit about half a pound at a time, so you might need to cook in two batches. Spray the shrimp lightly with olive oil spray.
- Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes per batch, flipping them halfway through. The shrimp are ready when the coating is golden and the shrimp are opaque and curled. Keep the first batch warm in a low oven at 200°F while the second batch cooks.
- Once all the shrimp are cooked, toss them in a bowl with the bang bang sauce, or serve the sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy them hot while the coating is still crunchy.
how to serve Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp
Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp is best served hot and crispy. You can enjoy it as an appetizer, a main dish, or even a snack. Pair it with a side of rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for extra flavor and presentation.
how to store Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp
If you have leftovers, store the shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to eat them, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to regain some crunch, but the sauce may lose some of its original flavor.
tips to make Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp
- Make sure to dry the shrimp thoroughly so that the coating sticks well.
- Feel free to adjust the Sriracha in the sauce to match your heat preference.
- For even crispier shrimp, let the coated shrimp sit for a few minutes before air frying.
variation
You can easily customize the sauce by adding garlic powder for a garlicky flavor, or swap the Sriracha for another hot sauce if you like something different. You can also try using chicken or tofu instead of shrimp for a different twist.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
A: Yes, but be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before coating.
Q: What if I don’t have an air fryer?
A: You can also bake these shrimp in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through.
Q: How spicy is the bang bang sauce?
A: The heat level depends on how much Sriracha you add. Start with 2 tablespoons and adjust based on your spice preference.
Bang Bang Shrimp
Ingredients
Method
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet Thai chili sauce, and Sriracha until smooth and combined. Taste and adjust the heat if needed. You can make this sauce up to a day in advance.
- Pat the peeled, deveined shrimp dry with paper towels. This step is key for making the coating stick properly.
- In a shallow bowl, mix the flour or cornstarch with salt and pepper. In another shallow bowl, beat the egg.
- One at a time, dip each shrimp into the egg wash, letting the extra drip off. Then, press it into the seasoned flour or cornstarch until it’s covered on all sides. Place each coated shrimp on a clean plate.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–4 minutes. A hot basket helps the coating crisp up right away.
- Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overlapping. A standard basket can fit about half a pound at a time, so you might need to cook in two batches. Spray the shrimp lightly with olive oil spray.
- Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes per batch, flipping them halfway through. The shrimp are ready when the coating is golden and the shrimp are opaque and curled. Keep the first batch warm in a low oven at 200°F while the second batch cooks.
- Once all the shrimp are cooked, toss them in a bowl with the bang bang sauce, or serve the sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy them hot while the coating is still crunchy.
