Baked Bang Bang Shrimp

Are you ready for an explosion of flavor that’s lightened up but still delicious? Baked Bang Bang Shrimp is a twist on a classic favorite, transforming the crispy, spicy delight into a healthier version without sacrificing any of the taste. This recipe features juicy, tender shrimp, coated in a crunchy Panko breadcrumb layer, and finished off with that signature spicy sauce. Perfect for parties, appetizers, or even a fun dinner night, this dish is sure to impress!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Baked Bang Bang Shrimp brings all the excitement of the beloved restaurant version right to your kitchen. The best part? You can enjoy this flavorful dish without the guilt of frying. The crunchy coating combined with the bang bang sauce creates a perfect balance of spice and creaminess, making every bite a delightful experience. Plus, it’s easy to make and comes together quickly, making it a staple for any seafood lover.

Ingredients

• 32 ounces 31/40 large shrimp, peeled, deveined, and tail off
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• ½ tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• ½ tablespoon Frank’s RedHot hot sauce
• 1 egg
• ¾ cup buttermilk
• 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs (plus more as needed)

How To Make Baked Bang Bang Shrimp

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your shrimp get a beautiful golden color and crispiness as they bake.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

In a large bowl, combine the peeled and deveined shrimp with the Frank’s RedHot hot sauce. Toss until the shrimp are evenly coated. This adds a kick of flavor to the shrimp before they are crumbled.

Step 3: Create the Breading Stations

In two separate shallow bowls, set up your breading stations. In the first bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In the second bowl, whisk the egg and buttermilk together until smooth.

Step 4: Coat the Shrimp

Take each shrimp and first dip it into the flour mixture, coating it evenly. Shake off any excess flour, then dip it into the egg and buttermilk mixture, allowing any surplus to drip off. Finally, press the shrimp into the Panko breadcrumbs, making sure they are generously coated.

Step 5: Arrange on a Baking Sheet

Place the coated shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This will ensure that they bake evenly and don’t stick.

Step 6: Bake the Shrimp

Bake the shrimp in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Flip them halfway through the baking time to ensure they’re evenly cooked.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the shrimp from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. They can be enjoyed alone as a tasty treat or paired with your favorite dipping sauce.

Expert Tips

• For extra crunch, add an additional ½ cup of Panko breadcrumbs to the coating mix for a thicker crust.
• Make sure the shrimp are patted dry with paper towels before coating to help the breading stick better.
• If you like spicy, feel free to increase the amount of Frank’s RedHot hot sauce to suit your taste.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; this allows the shrimp to bake evenly and get crispy.

Variations and Customizations

• For a garlicky twist, add minced fresh garlic to the buttermilk mixture.
• For a Southern-style variation, season the flour mixture with Cajun spices for a kick.
• If you prefer a non-spicy version, simply omit the hot sauce and season the shrimp with your favorite herbs instead.
• Add grated parmesan cheese to the Panko breadcrumbs for a cheesy crust.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, place the baked shrimp in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness. Reheating in the microwave may make them soggy, so an oven is preferred.

FAQ

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before coating.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour and Panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs.

What can I serve with Bang Bang Shrimp?

Bang Bang Shrimp are great on their own, but you can serve them with a side of coleslaw, over a bed of rice, or with a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Can I use other types of seafood in this recipe?

Yes! This recipe can be adapted to use scallops, calamari, or even fish fillets. Just adjust the baking time as needed to ensure the seafood is cooked through.

Conclusion

Baked Bang Bang Shrimp is a winning dish that is easy to prepare and full of flavor. With a crispy coating and a spicy kick, it’s a delightful treat that caters to all seafood lovers out there. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, a fun main course, or simply enjoying it for yourself, this recipe will quickly become a favorite at your table. So gather your ingredients and get ready to dive into a dish that is as delicious as it is satisfying. Happy cooking!