Prepare for a culinary sensation that will tantalize your taste buds and become an instant favorite in your kitchen: Gluten-Free Bang Bang Shrimp! This incredibly popular dish features succulent shrimp, perfectly breaded and fried to golden-brown crispiness, then generously tossed in a creamy, sweet, and perfectly spicy sauce. What makes this recipe truly special is that it’s completely gluten-free and dairy-free, ensuring everyone can enjoy its delightful flavors without compromise. Best of all, this incredible meal comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.

Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping delicious appetizer to kick off your dinner party, a flavorful topping for rice bowls, or a light and zesty filling for lettuce wraps, this homemade Bang Bang Shrimp recipe is wonderfully versatile. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this effortlessly quick, undeniably delicious, and incredibly satisfying dish!

What is Bang Bang Shrimp and Why is it So Popular?

Bang Bang Shrimp has carved out a significant niche in American culinary culture, largely popularized by renowned seafood restaurant chains like Bonefish Grill, where it swiftly became a signature menu item. This beloved dish is a masterclass in contrasting textures and bold flavors, making it an instant crowd-pleaser that people crave.

At its core, authentic Bang Bang Shrimp features succulent, tender shrimp that undergoes a meticulous process: first, it’s lightly coated in a crispy breading (traditionally cornstarch-based for that perfect, airy crunch), then deep-fried to a beautiful golden perfection. The magic truly happens when these perfectly fried shrimp are generously tossed in a creamy, sweet, and perfectly spicy sauce. This iconic sauce, typically crafted from a harmonious blend of rich mayonnaise, tangy sweet chili sauce, pungent Sriracha, and a touch of zesty vinegar, delivers an explosion of flavor in every single bite.

The allure lies in its dynamic profile: the satisfying crunch of the exterior gives way to the tender juiciness of the shrimp within, all enveloped by the luxurious, fiery, yet sweet embrace of the sauce. It’s an addictive combination that satisfies cravings for something both comforting and exciting, making it a go-to choice for seafood enthusiasts and adventurous eaters alike. Our carefully crafted gluten-free and dairy-free version ensures this iconic culinary experience is accessible to even more diners, without sacrificing any of the original’s charm or incredible taste.

Why This Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe is a Must-Try

This particular homemade Bang Bang Shrimp recipe isn’t just another version; it’s meticulously crafted to deliver maximum flavor and convenience while catering to specific dietary needs. Here’s why it’s set to become a staple in your recipe rotation, offering a delicious and inclusive option for everyone:

• Effortlessly Easy to Make: Don’t let the restaurant-quality taste fool you – this recipe is incredibly straightforward, perfect for home cooks of all skill levels. It’s designed to be a fantastic 30-minute meal that requires minimal fuss and preparation. You simply season and coat your shrimp, quickly fry them until they’re perfectly golden and crispy, then whisk together the magical Bang Bang sauce ingredients in a flash. A quick toss to coat, and voilà – a gourmet meal is ready to serve! This makes it perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something special but are short on time, or for last-minute entertaining.
• Uses Simple, Accessible Ingredients: You won’t need to scour specialty stores for obscure or expensive items. All the main components for this delicious gluten-free and dairy-free Bang Bang Shrimp are readily available at your local grocery store. We prioritize common pantry staples like jumbo shrimp, cornstarch, mayonnaise, and readily available Asian sauces to ensure this delightful dish is always within reach and budget-friendly. Nothing fancy is required, just fresh, quality ingredients.
• 100% Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free: This is arguably the biggest selling point and a huge relief for many! We’ve meticulously developed and tested this recipe to be completely gluten-free and dairy-free without compromising even an ounce on taste or the beloved creamy texture. This means individuals with Celiac disease, gluten intolerance, lactose intolerance, or dairy allergies can indulge in this classic and craveable dish worry-free. It’s a true Bonefish Grill copycat that everyone can enjoy, making it perfect for diverse gatherings.
• Incredible & Balanced Flavor Profile: The genius of Bang Bang Shrimp lies in its perfectly balanced sauce. The interplay of sweet from the chili sauce and sugar, spicy from the Sriracha, and tangy from the vinegar, all wrapped in a creamy mayonnaise base, is simply irresistible. This complex flavor profile, paired with the perfectly crispy and juicy shrimp, creates an explosion of taste that is deeply satisfying and incredibly addictive. It’s the perfect blend of comforting familiarity and exciting exotic notes.
• Highly Versatile Serving Options: This dish truly shines with its adaptability. Whether served as a standalone and impressive appetizer for a party, nestled in soft and refreshing lettuce wraps for a lighter meal, or generously spooned over fluffy white rice (or even healthier cauliflower rice) for a more substantial and satisfying dinner, its versatility makes it suitable for various occasions, dietary preferences, and meal times.

Essential Ingredients for Your Gluten-Free Bang Bang Shrimp

Crafting this incredible gluten-free and dairy-free Bang Bang Shrimp requires a few key ingredients, all chosen for their specific role in creating the perfect balance of crispiness, creaminess, and flavor. Each component contributes to the deliciousness that makes this dish so famous. Below is a visual overview of the star ingredients, and for precise measurements that ensure perfect results, you’ll find the complete list in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

We’ve broken down the ingredients into three main categories to make preparation simple and organized: for the crispy shrimp itself, for the iconic and craveable Bang Bang Sauce, and for optional garnishes that add a final touch of freshness and visual appeal.

Recipe Notes & Expert Substitutions for Perfect Results

To ensure your Gluten-Free Bang Bang Shrimp turns out perfectly every time, and to accommodate various dietary needs or pantry staples, here are some detailed notes and smart substitutions to guide you:

• Shrimp: For the best texture and visual appeal, I highly recommend using jumbo shrimp (typically 21-25 count per pound). Remember that shrimp tend to shrink slightly when cooked, so starting with larger ones ensures a more satisfying bite. You can use either frozen or fresh shrimp, but always ensure they are fully peeled and thoroughly deveined. The most crucial step before coating is to thoroughly pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Excess moisture can prevent the cornstarch from adhering properly, leading to a less crispy result, so don’t skip this!
• Cornstarch: This is our secret weapon for achieving that irresistibly crispy, perfectly golden, and completely gluten-free coating. It creates a light, delicate crunch that holds up wonderfully, even when tossed in sauce. If you have a corn allergy or simply prefer an alternative, tapioca starch or arrowroot starch are excellent gluten-free substitutes that will yield similar crispy results and a fantastic texture.
• Frying Oil: The type of vegetable oil you choose for frying can slightly impact the flavor, but most neutral-flavored oils will work beautifully. Feel free to use your preferred cooking oil such as sunflower oil, corn oil, canola oil, or even peanut oil (if no nut allergies are a concern). The key is to ensure the oil is heated to the correct temperature for optimal crispiness and to prevent soggy or greasy shrimp. Use a thermometer if possible.
• Salt & Pepper: We keep the seasoning for the shrimp itself very simple – just a dash of salt and freshly ground black pepper. This minimalist approach allows the vibrant, complex flavors of the Bang Bang sauce to truly shine as the star of the show. The sauce provides all the necessary depth and seasoning, so you don’t need to over-season the shrimp initially.
• Mayonnaise: The creamy base of our homemade Bang Bang sauce traditionally comes from mayonnaise. For this dairy-free recipe, regular mayonnaise works perfectly as it contains no dairy. However, if you are looking for an egg-free option, or catering to vegan guests, opt for a high-quality vegan mayonnaise. It will provide the same rich, creamy texture and bind the sauce ingredients beautifully without any animal products.
• Sweet Chili Sauce: This ingredient is absolutely essential for the characteristic sweet and subtly spicy notes of authentic Bang Bang sauce. Do not skip it, as it’s fundamental to the dish’s flavor profile! For those with Celiac disease or gluten intolerance, it’s crucial to select a certified gluten-free sweet chili sauce, as some brands may contain wheat as a thickening agent or in soy sauce. Always check the label carefully to ensure it meets your dietary needs.
• Rice Vinegar: A splash of vinegar adds a crucial tanginess and brightness that cuts through the richness of the mayonnaise and perfectly balances the sweetness of the chili sauce and the heat of the Sriracha. Rice vinegar offers a mild, slightly sweet acidity, which is ideal. If you don’t have it on hand, red wine vinegar or even white vinegar can be used as alternatives, though they might impart a slightly stronger or different flavor profile.
• Sriracha Sauce: This is where you control the heat level of your Bang Bang Shrimp! Sriracha chili sauce provides that signature fiery kick that many adore. Start with the recommended amount in the recipe card, then taste the sauce and add more in small increments (a quarter teaspoon at a time) until you reach your desired level of spice. Whether you prefer a mild warmth or a fiery inferno, Sriracha lets you customize the heat perfectly.
• Sugar: A touch of sugar helps to round out all the flavors, enhancing the natural sweetness from the sweet chili sauce and expertly balancing the acidity from the vinegar and the powerful heat from the Sriracha. I typically use white granulated sugar, but cane sugar will work just as effectively to achieve that perfect sweet-spicy harmony in your sauce.
• Garnish: Don’t underestimate the power of a fresh garnish! Sliced green onions and diced tomatoes not only add a beautiful pop of color, making the dish visually appealing, but they also contribute a fresh, vibrant contrast to the rich fried shrimp and creamy sauce. The mild oniony bite of green onions and the juicy acidity of fresh tomatoes elevate the dish. Alternatively, finely sliced chives can also be used for a delicate onion flavor.
• Storing Leftovers: While Bang Bang Shrimp is absolutely best enjoyed immediately when the shrimp are at their crispiest and the sauce is perfectly coating them, you can store any leftovers. Place the shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, a microwave will work in a pinch, but for best results (to regain some crispiness), briefly warm them in a dry skillet on the stovetop or in an air fryer. Keep the sauce separate if possible, and add it after reheating for optimal freshness.

How to Make Gluten-Free Bang Bang Shrimp: A Simple Guide

Follow these easy, step-by-step instructions to create your own restaurant-quality gluten-free and dairy-free Bang Bang Shrimp right at home. Each step is designed for clarity and efficiency, ensuring perfect results every time you make this crowd-pleasing dish.

1. Prepare Your Frying Oil

In a deep pan, Dutch oven, or large skillet, pour your chosen vegetable oil (such as sunflower, corn, or canola oil) to a depth of about 1-2 inches. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches approximately 350-375°F (175-190°C). Using a kitchen thermometer is ideal for accuracy. If you don’t have one, you can test the oil by dropping a tiny pinch of cornstarch into it; it should sizzle immediately if hot enough.

2. Season the Shrimp

While the oil is heating, take your peeled and deveined jumbo shrimp and place them in a clean bowl. Season them generously yet simply with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Ensure each shrimp is lightly seasoned, preparing it for its flavorful journey and complementing the sauce to come.

3. Coat the Shrimp for Crispy Perfection

Place the cornstarch (or your chosen gluten-free alternative like tapioca or arrowroot starch) in a shallow dish or a large Ziploc bag. Add the seasoned shrimp, a few pieces at a time, and dredge them thoroughly. Make sure each shrimp is evenly coated on all sides. This coating is absolutely key to achieving that signature light and crispy texture. Gently shake off any excess cornstarch before frying to prevent clumps in the oil.

4. Fry to Golden Crispy Excellence

Carefully add the coated shrimp to the hot oil in batches. It’s crucial to avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can drastically lower the oil temperature and result in soggy, rather than crispy, shrimp. Fry them for approximately 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown and are deliciously crispy all over. Once cooked, use a slotted spoon or spider to efficiently remove the fried shrimp and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate. This crucial step helps drain any excess oil, ensuring maximum crispiness and a lighter result.

5. Prepare Your Fresh Garnishes

While your shrimp are frying in batches, take this opportunity to efficiently prepare your fresh garnishes. Dice your ripe tomatoes into small, uniform pieces and finely slice your green onions. These vibrant additions will not only provide a beautiful presentation but also contribute a refreshing burst of fresh flavor and texture to the final dish, complementing the richness of the shrimp and sauce.

6. Whisk Up the Irresistible Bang Bang Sauce

In a separate medium-sized bowl, combine all the ingredients for the glorious Bang Bang sauce: mayonnaise (regular or vegan), gluten-free sweet chili sauce, rice vinegar, Sriracha chili sauce, and sugar. Using a whisk, mix all the ingredients thoroughly until the sauce is completely smooth, creamy, and perfectly combined. Taste the sauce, and if you desire more heat, don’t hesitate to add additional Sriracha a quarter teaspoon at a time until it reaches your perfect spice level. Set this flavorful sauce aside until your crispy shrimp are ready.

7. Toss Shrimp in Bang Bang Sauce

Once all the shrimp are fried to perfection and have drained any excess oil, transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Generously drizzle the prepared creamy, sweet, and spicy Bang Bang sauce over the crispy shrimp. Using tongs or a large spoon, gently toss the shrimp, ensuring each individual piece is beautifully and evenly coated with the irresistible sauce. This step truly brings all the elements together into the iconic, flavorful dish.

8. Garnish and Serve Your Masterpiece

Plate your freshly coated Bang Bang Shrimp and liberally sprinkle with the chopped green onions and diced tomatoes you prepared earlier. Serve your homemade gluten-free Bang Bang Shrimp immediately to enjoy its optimal crispiness and vibrant flavor. It’s fantastic as an appetizer on its own, a delightful main course over a bed of fluffy white rice, nutritious brown rice, or even fresh lettuce leaves for a lighter, low-carb option. Enjoy every mouthwatering bite of this quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying culinary delight!