Longhorn Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe

So I just HAVE to share with you how I recreate Longhorn’s famous Bang Bang Shrimp at home!

My secret tip is to use panko breadcrumbs for that extra crunch, and don’t forget to let the shrimp rest on paper towels after frying to keep them crispy.

I absolutely love this dish because it brings a perfect balance of heat and savory flavors, making every bite absolutely irresistible.

Serve it with a side of ranch for dipping, and you’ll have a restaurant-quality appetizer right in your kitchen.

How to Make Longhorn Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 lb Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 1 cup Buttermilk
• 1 cup Flour
• 1/2 cup Cornstarch
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs
• 1 cup Mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup Sweet Thai Chili Sauce
• 1-2 tsp Sriracha (to taste)
• Oil (for frying)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Mix the flour, cornstarch, and salt in a bowl.

Set aside.

Step 2:

In another bowl, combine the buttermilk and shrimp.

Ensure the shrimp is fully coated.

Step 3:

Dredge each piece of shrimp in the flour mixture.

Then coat with panko breadcrumbs.

Step 4:

Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat until it reaches 350°F.

Fry the shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes until golden and crispy.

Step 5:

In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise, sweet Thai chili sauce, and Sriracha.

Toss the fried shrimp in the sauce until well coated.

• Serving size: Serves 4
• Total preparation time: 20 minutes
• Total cooking time: 15 minutes

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Don’t Overcrowd the Pan

When frying, make sure not to add too many shrimp at once.

This keeps the oil temperature consistent and ensures even cooking.

Adjust the Spice Level

You can control the heat of the dish by adjusting the amount of Sriracha in the sauce.

Start with a small amount and add more if you prefer a spicier dish.

Use Fresh Shrimp

If possible, always use fresh shrimp for the best flavor.

Frozen shrimp works too, but let them thaw completely and pat them dry before use.

Keep the Shrimp Dry

Before dredging the shrimp in the flour mixture, make sure they are pat dry.

This helps the coating stick better and ensures a crispy texture.

Serve Immediately

Bang Bang Shrimp is best served right after frying and saucing.

This ensures that they stay crispy and delicious.

What to Serve with Longhorn Bang Bang Shrimp

Jasmine Rice

Jasmine rice is a fragrant option that will pair wonderfully with the spicy kick of Longhorn Bang Bang Shrimp.

Its light, fluffy texture helps to balance the heat while adding a subtle sweetness to the dish.

You will always appreciate the simplicity and how it soaks up every bit of the delicious sauce.

Roasted Broccoli

Roasted broccoli is another great option that offers a nice crunch and earthy flavor.

A little olive oil, salt, and pepper are all you need to roast broccoli to perfection.

The smoky flavor from roasting will contrast well with the spiciness of the shrimp.

Creamy Avocado

Serving creamy avocado alongside spicy shrimp creates a beautiful balance between heat and creaminess.

Simply slice ripe avocados and serve them as they are or with a squeeze of lemon.

The mild flavor of avocado cools down the spicy shrimp deliciously.

Corn on the Cob

Corn on the cob is a classic side that pairs fantastically with spicy shrimp.

Its natural sweetness complements the spiciness and adds a satisfying crunch.

Grill or boil the corn and finish it with a brush of butter and a sprinkle of salt.

Vietnamese Noodle Salad

For something a bit out of the ordinary, try a Vietnamese noodle salad.

This salad combines rice noodles, fresh herbs, and a tangy dressing.

It’s light, refreshing, and brings a different texture and flavor profile to the meal.

Mango Guacamole

Mango guacamole is a unique twist that blends sweet mango chunks with traditional guacamole ingredients.

The sweetness of the mango enhances the buttery avocado and provides a delightful contrast to the spicy shrimp.

This combination is exciting and sure to become a favorite.

Grilled Veggie Kabobs

Grilled veggie kabobs are colorful and full of varied flavors.

Include vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes for a medley of tastes.

Grilling these veggies intensifies their natural flavors, making them a perfect match for the shrimp.

Variations and Substitutions

Sweet and Spicy Twist

If you prefer a different heat level, you can easily adjust the amount of Sriracha in the Bang Bang sauce.

Adding some honey or maple syrup can provide a sweet contrast to the spicy notes.

Try cooking the shrimp with a dash of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.

Gluten-Free Option

To make the shrimp gluten-free, substitute the flour and Panko with gluten-free alternatives.

You can find gluten-free breadcrumbs at most grocery stores.

Ensure that your soy sauce is also gluten-free if your recipe includes it.

Different Cooking Methods

For a healthier option, consider baking the shrimp instead of frying.

Place the shrimp on a baking sheet and spray lightly with cooking spray before baking.

Another alternative is using an air fryer to achieve a crispy texture with less oil.

Dairy-Free Adaptations

If you need to avoid dairy, replace the milk in the dredging process with a non-dairy alternative like almond or soy milk.

Ensure that any added sauces or dressings do not contain dairy ingredients.

Using coconut milk can add a rich, slightly sweet flavor to your shrimp.

How to Store Leftover Bang Bang Shrimp

Airtight Containers

Make sure to store your leftover Bang Bang Shrimp in an airtight container to keep it fresh for up to 3 days.

You can use plastic containers with a tight seal, or even glass containers with a snap lid.

Always place the shrimp in a single layer to avoid them sticking together.

Refrigeration

Place the container with the Bang Bang Shrimp in the refrigerator as soon as it cools down to room temperature.

Keeping the shrimp at a cool and consistent temperature helps to prevent bacteria growth.

Setting your refrigerator to 40°F or below will ensure the shrimp stays fresh.

Freezing

If you want to store it for a longer period, consider freezing the shrimp.

Use freezer-safe bags or containers and label them with the date you froze them.

Remember to remove as much air as possible from the bags before sealing.

You can keep the shrimp in the freezer for up to 2 months without losing much flavor or texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Shrimp

One common mistake is overcooking the shrimp.

Shrimp cooks very quickly and can become rubbery if left in the oil for too long.

It’s important to fry the shrimp for about 1-2 minutes per side until just golden brown.

Improper Oil Temperature

Another mistake is not checking the oil temperature.

If the oil is too hot, the shrimp will burn on the outside and stay raw inside.

Use a thermometer to keep the oil around 375°F or use the chopstick test to see if it bubbles.

Neglecting to Shake Off Excess Flour

Neglecting to shake off excess flour from the shrimp can result in a heavy, greasy coating.

After dredging each shrimp in the flour mixture, be sure to shake off any excess before frying.

This helps achieve a light and crispy texture!