If you’ve never tried boom boom shrimp, you’re in for a treat. This dish combines crispy fried shrimp with a rich and creamy sauce that’s just the right mix of spicy, sweet, and tangy. It’s one of those recipes that feels like restaurant magic but is surprisingly easy to make at home.
Whether you’re preparing it as an appetizer, snack, or even a full meal, this boom boom shrimp recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. It’s perfect for game nights, family dinners, or any time you want to wow your taste buds. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to whip up this iconic dish.
What Makes Boom Boom Shrimp So Special?
Boom boom shrimp has exploded in popularity, and it’s easy to see why. This dish checks all the boxes: crispy, saucy, flavorful, and fun to eat. The star of the show is the sauce—a creamy blend of mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha that creates a perfect balance of heat and sweetness.
Pair that sauce with shrimp fried to golden perfection, and you’ve got a dish that’s impossible to resist. While it’s commonly served as an appetizer in restaurants, boom boom shrimp can easily become the centerpiece of your meal at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Making boom boom shrimp from scratch is simpler than you might think. Here’s everything you’ll need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup buttermilk (for marinating)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable or canola oil (for frying)
For the Boom Boom Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (or more if you love spice)
- 1 clove garlic, finely minced
- Juice of ½ a lime
Optional garnish: chopped green onions or sesame seeds
How to Make Bang Bang Shrimp: Step-by-Step Guide
Prep the Shrimp
Start by peeling and deveining your shrimp. You can leave the tails on for a more classic presentation or remove them for easier eating—your call! Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to help the coating stick better.
Marinate the Shrimp
Place the shrimp in a bowl with buttermilk and let them soak for about 20-30 minutes. This step not only helps the coating adhere but also ensures the shrimp stay juicy and tender when fried.
Prepare the Coating
In a shallow dish, combine the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to evenly distribute the spices.
Coat the Shrimp
Remove the shrimp from the buttermilk, letting any excess drip off. Dredge each shrimp in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure a thorough coating. For an extra-crispy finish, you can double-dip: dip the coated shrimp back into the buttermilk, then into the flour mixture again.
Heat the Oil
In a deep skillet or pot, heat about 2 inches of oil to 350°F. Use a thermometer to keep the oil at the right temperature—too hot, and the coating will burn; too cool, and the shrimp will absorb oil and become greasy.
Fry the Shrimp
Carefully add the shrimp to the hot oil in small batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy. Remove the shrimp with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Make the Boom Boom Sauce
While the shrimp cool slightly, mix the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, garlic, and lime juice in a small bowl. Whisk until smooth and creamy. Adjust the flavors to taste—add more sriracha for heat or a touch of honey for extra sweetness.
Toss and Serve
Gently toss the fried shrimp in the sauce until evenly coated. For a more casual presentation, you can serve the sauce on the side as a dip. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds, and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Boom Boom Shrimp Every Time
- Keep the Oil Hot: Maintaining the right oil temperature is crucial for crispy shrimp. Let the oil return to 350°F between batches.
- Don’t Skip the Buttermilk: This step is key to tender, juicy shrimp and helps the coating stick better.
- Serve Immediately: Boom boom shrimp is best enjoyed fresh out of the fryer while the coating is crispy.
- Customize the Sauce: The beauty of this recipe is that you can adjust the sauce to suit your taste. Want it spicier? Add more sriracha. Prefer a tangier kick? Increase the lime juice.
Serving Ideas for Boom Boom Shrimp
Boom boom shrimp is incredibly versatile. Here are some creative ways to serve it:
- As an Appetizer: Arrange the shrimp on a platter with toothpicks for dipping. Perfect for parties!
- Pair your Boom Boom Shrimp with a side of Sassy Rice for a bold flavor combination.
- Boom Boom Shrimp Tacos: Pile the shrimp onto warm tortillas with shredded cabbage, avocado slices, and a drizzle of extra sauce.
- Over Rice or Noodles: Serve the shrimp over steamed rice or a bed of noodles for a hearty meal. Add some stir-fried veggies for extra flair.
- On a Salad: Toss the shrimp with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette for a satisfying, protein-packed salad.
Why Make Boom Boom Shrimp at Home?
You might be wondering why you’d make this dish at home when you can order it at a restaurant. The answer is simple: homemade boom boom shrimp is fresher, more customizable, and often way more affordable. Plus, there’s something so satisfying about mastering a dish like this in your own kitchen.
When you make it yourself, you control the quality of the ingredients, the spice level, and the portion size. It’s also a fun way to impress your family or guests without breaking the bank.
What Makes Boom Boom Shrimp a Crowd Favorite?
Boom boom shrimp isn’t just delicious—it’s a showstopper. The golden, crispy coating on the shrimp is irresistible, and the signature boom boom sauce takes the flavor to another level. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting a dinner party, or just treating yourself, this dish always leaves a lasting impression. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that feels indulgent yet surprisingly easy to prepare.
One of the reasons boom boom shrimp is so popular is its versatility. It can fit any occasion, from casual backyard cookouts to fancier gatherings. You can serve it as a starter to get everyone talking or make it the main dish alongside a fresh salad or rice bowl. No matter how you serve it, the combination of crispy shrimp and bold sauce makes it unforgettable.
Healthier Twists on Boom Boom Shrimp
If you’re looking for a lighter version of boom boom shrimp, don’t worry—you don’t have to miss out. Baking or air frying the shrimp can give you that satisfying crunch without the added oil. For a health-conscious twist, try pairing your shrimp with whole-grain rice or quinoa and add a side of steamed or roasted veggies for a balanced meal.
You can also play with the sauce to cut calories. Swap out regular mayo for a light or Greek yogurt-based alternative. It keeps the creamy texture while adding a tangy flavor that works beautifully with the chili and sriracha. Little tweaks like these can make your boom boom shrimp a bit healthier without sacrificing taste.
Bang Bang Shrimp and Southern-Style Comfort
Boom Boom Shrimp fits perfectly into the world of Southern-style comfort food. The crispy fried shrimp combined with the rich, tangy sauce is like a modern twist on traditional shrimp dishes from the South. Serve it with sides like creamy coleslaw, cornbread, or even a cool cucumber salad to complete the vibe.
Another fun idea is to use boom boom shrimp as a topping for grits. The creamy, buttery grits act as the perfect base to soak up the bold flavors of the shrimp and sauce. It’s a meal that feels like a hug on a plate—comforting, satisfying, and full of flavor.
Why Boom Boom Shrimp Should Be Your Next Recipe Try
There’s a reason boom boom shrimp has become a staple on menus and in home kitchens—it’s a dish that brings people together. The crispy texture, the spicy-sweet sauce, and the overall vibe of indulgence make it feel special every time you make it. Plus, it’s easy to adjust the recipe to fit your needs, whether you want a family-friendly meal, a date night treat, or a party appetizer.
Making Bang Bang Shrimp at home is also a great way to impress your friends and family. It looks fancy, tastes incredible, and gives you that restaurant-quality experience right in your kitchen.So roll up your sleeves and get cooking—you won’t regret it!
FAQs About Boom Boom Shrimp
What size shrimp should I use?
Large or jumbo shrimp work best for this recipe. They’re meaty and hold up well during frying.
Can I make Boom Boom Shrimp without frying?
Absolutely! While frying gives the crispiest texture, you can bake the shrimp at 400°F for 15-20 minutes or air fry them at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes. Just spray them lightly with oil to help them crisp up.
How long will the sauce last?
The boom boom sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s great for other dishes, too—try it on burgers or as a dip for fries!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It’s best to fry the shrimp fresh for maximum crispiness, but you can prep the sauce and coat the shrimp in advance. Store the coated shrimp in the fridge until you’re ready to fry.
Is Bang Bang Shrimp spicy?
The spice level is mild to medium, depending on how much sriracha you use. You can adjust the heat to suit your preferences.
A Dish You’ll Want to Make Again and Again
Boom boom shrimp is more than just a recipe—it’s an experience. From the first bite of crispy, saucy goodness to the last, this dish is guaranteed to leave you and your guests raving.
The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity and flexibility. You can stick to the classic version or make it your own with a few tweaks. Either way, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your home.