Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti (or linguine)
- 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tbsp sriracha (adjust to heat preference)
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp lime juice (optional for brightness)
Garnish (optional but highly recommended):
- Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
- Crushed red pepper flakes or sesame seeds
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
Set the pasta aside and drizzle lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice (if using). Taste and adjust spice to your liking.
🔥 For extra kick, add a dash more sriracha or even cayenne.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 2 tbsp olive oil. Toss shrimp with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic. Add shrimp to hot skillet in a single layer and sear for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and slightly golden.
Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Lower heat to medium. In the same skillet, add drained pasta, cooked shrimp, and the prepared Bang Bang sauce. Toss everything together until evenly coated.
Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce and help it cling.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Plate the pasta and top with chopped parsley, red pepper flakes, or sesame seeds. Serve hot with lime wedges on the side for a pop of citrusy brightness.