Baked Bang Bang Shrimp

Baked Bang Bang Shrimp: A Weeknight Winner

As a busy working mom, finding quick and delicious weeknight dinners is crucial. My family loves shrimp, but often, restaurant versions are loaded with unnecessary fat and calories. That's where my baked bang bang shrimp recipe comes in. It's a healthier twist on a restaurant favorite, offering the same incredible flavor without the guilt. This recipe requires minimal prep time and cleanup, making it perfect for those evenings when time is of the essence. I often double the recipe and have leftovers for lunch the next day – a delicious and convenient way to start my busy workday.

The key to achieving that perfect bang bang flavor is in the balance of sweet, spicy, and savory elements. The homemade dipping sauce is the star of this dish. The creamy mayonnaise base is enhanced by a tangy ketchup kick, a hint of smoked paprika for depth, and a touch of sriracha for a delightful heat that’s perfectly adjustable to your spice tolerance. You can easily control the spiciness by adjusting the amount of sriracha you add. My kids, even the youngest, love it! I typically use almond flour in the batter, as it creates a lighter, crispier coating, but all-purpose flour works well too. The panko breadcrumbs add a satisfying crunch that perfectly complements the succulent shrimp.

Beyond the Recipe: This baked bang bang shrimp is so versatile! It’s fantastic served with a side of rice, a fresh salad, or even some roasted vegetables. It's a great option for a family gathering, potluck contribution, or even a casual Friday night dinner. The recipe is easily scalable too; you can easily make a smaller or larger batch depending on your needs. For those looking for a lighter option, consider using a lower-fat mayonnaise or experimenting with different types of milk in the batter. The possibilities are endless!

This recipe isn't just about a delicious meal; it's about creating a simple, enjoyable cooking experience that even a busy person can manage. It’s become a staple in my home, and I know it will become a cherished recipe in yours as well. Try it out, and let me know what you think!

Tips and Variations:

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of sriracha and cayenne pepper to your preference.
• Milk Alternatives: Experiment with different milk alternatives like soy milk or oat milk.
• Flour Alternatives: Gluten-free flour blends can be used as a substitute.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve with rice, quinoa, a fresh salad, or your favorite sides.
• Make it Ahead: The shrimp can be prepped and breaded ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

Enjoy this easy and delicious Baked Bang Bang Shrimp recipe!

Step-by-step

• Preheat oven to 400 degrees and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Clean, trim and de-vein shrimp.
• Combine the remaining ingredients except breadcrumbs in a bowl and whisk together.
• Place breadcrumbs on a plate.
• Dip shrimp into the batter then coat in the breadcrumbs.
• Place on baking sheet and repeat with remaining shrimp.
• Bake shrimp for 12-15 minutes, flipping over half way through.
• Combine dipping sauce ingredients in a bowl and mix.
• Serve shrimp fresh out of the oven with the dipping sauce.