If you’re anything like me, the idea of recreating restaurant favorites at home is both a fun challenge and a way to bring a little magic to weeknight dinners. That’s exactly what drew me to this Copycat Bonefish Grill Bang Bang Shrimp recipe. There’s something so satisfying about biting into those crispy, spicy, creamy little morsels that instantly transport me back to my days working in busy kitchens, where bold flavors ruled the night. Plus, as a mom with little ones who love dipping anything into sauce, this recipe hits the sweet spot of being indulgent yet simple enough to make without fuss. Let’s dive into why this bang bang shrimp recipe has earned a special place in my kitchen and how you can make it your own.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Copycat Bonefish Grill Bang Bang Shrimp
This Copycat Bonefish Grill Bang Bang Shrimp recipe stands out for its perfect balance of crispy texture and creamy, spicy sauce—a combination that hits all the right notes for me. From my years in professional kitchens, I’ve learned that getting that crunch without the greasiness is key, and this recipe nails it every time. What truly makes it special is how approachable it is for home cooks; you don’t need fancy equipment or obscure ingredients. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some seafood for picky eaters—my kids adore the dipping sauce, which makes mealtime extra fun and interactive. It’s a dish that brings people together around the table, just like my mum and grandmother’s cooking did for me growing up.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This Copycat Bonefish Grill Bang Bang Shrimp
The key to this dish lies in selecting the right ingredients, especially fresh shrimp and a good quality mayo for the sauce. I’ve always believed that simple, quality ingredients make a huge difference, a lesson passed down from countless afternoons in my mum’s kitchen in southern England. If you can find wild-caught shrimp, it’s worth the extra effort for that sweet, clean flavor. For the sauce, homemade mayo can be a game-changer, but store-bought works just fine when you’re short on time.
- 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup cornstarch (or substitute with rice flour for gluten-free)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (preferably full-fat for creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1-2 teaspoons sriracha, adjust to taste
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional garnish: chopped green onions or cilantro
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
Irresistible Copycat Bonefish Grill Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe You Can Make at Home
Learn how to make delicious Copycat Bonefish Grill Bang Bang Shrimp. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
The key to this dish lies in selecting the right ingredients, especially fresh shrimp and a good quality mayo for the sauce. I’ve always believed that simple, quality ingredients make a huge difference, a lesson passed down from countless afternoons in my mum’s kitchen in southern England. If you can find wild-caught shrimp, it’s worth the extra effort for that sweet, clean flavor. For the sauce, homemade mayo can be a game-changer, but store-bought works just fine when you’re short on time.
- 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup cornstarch (or substitute with rice flour for gluten-free)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (preferably full-fat for creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1–2 teaspoons sriracha, adjust to taste
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional garnish: chopped green onions or cilantro
Instructions
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure the coating sticks well. Season lightly with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Place cornstarch in a shallow bowl. Dredge each shrimp in the cornstarch, shaking off the excess. This step creates that signature crispy crust.
- Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy—my years in restaurant kitchens taught me that temperature control is everything.
- Carefully fry the shrimp in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook each batch for about 2-3 minutes, until golden and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- While the shrimp cooks, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey in a medium bowl. Adjust the heat level by adding more or less sriracha according to your taste.
- Once all shrimp are fried, toss them gently in the sauce until evenly coated. The shrimp should be warm, so the sauce clings perfectly.
- Serve immediately, garnished with chopped green onions or cilantro if you like a fresh finish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Steps to Create Your Copycat Bonefish Grill Bang Bang Shrimp
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure the coating sticks well. Season lightly with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Place cornstarch in a shallow bowl. Dredge each shrimp in the cornstarch, shaking off the excess. This step creates that signature crispy crust.
- Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy—my years in restaurant kitchens taught me that temperature control is everything.
- Carefully fry the shrimp in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook each batch for about 2-3 minutes, until golden and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- While the shrimp cooks, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey in a medium bowl. Adjust the heat level by adding more or less sriracha according to your taste.
- Once all shrimp are fried, toss them gently in the sauce until evenly coated. The shrimp should be warm, so the sauce clings perfectly.
- Serve immediately, garnished with chopped green onions or cilantro if you like a fresh finish.
Tips for Making the Best Copycat Bonefish Grill Bang Bang Shrimp
Getting this dish just right is about technique and timing, two things I’ve come to appreciate deeply after my years in restaurant kitchens. A crunchy, light coating and a sauce with the right balance of sweet, spicy, and creamy is what makes bang bang shrimp truly memorable.
- Always dry your shrimp thoroughly before dredging to avoid soggy coating.
- Maintain the oil temperature between 340-360°F to keep the shrimp crispy without absorbing too much oil.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—frying in small batches ensures even cooking and crunch.
- Adjust the sauce ingredients gradually; taste as you go to find your perfect balance of heat and sweetness.
- Try using rice flour instead of cornstarch for a lighter, gluten-free crust.
- Serve the shrimp immediately after saucing to enjoy the best texture—leftovers tend to lose their crispness fast.
With these tips, you’ll create a restaurant-quality dish every time. Learn more: related recipe Learn more: 10 minute honey garlic shrimp
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This dish is incredibly versatile and works beautifully for various occasions—from casual family dinners to weekend gatherings with friends. I often serve bang bang shrimp as an appetizer during game nights or as a main with some simple sides when life gets busy.
- Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling water with a wedge of lemon to refresh the palate.
- Serve alongside a light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness.
- Offer with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy coconut rice for a satisfying meal.
- Try it as a taco filling with shredded cabbage and a squeeze of lime for a fun twist.
Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or entertaining friends, this dish never fails to impress and bring a little joy to the table.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Proper storage ensures you can enjoy leftovers just as much as the fresh dish, though I’ll admit, bang bang shrimp is best eaten right away. From my experience juggling meal prep with kids and busy days, I’ve learned a few tricks to keep it tasting great.
- Store fried shrimp and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- When reheating, warm the shrimp in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to help retain crispness.
- Reheat sauce gently on the stovetop or microwave in short bursts, then toss shrimp in just before serving to avoid sogginess.
- For make-ahead meals, prepare shrimp and sauce separately and combine right before eating.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients for Copycat Bonefish Grill Bang Bang Shrimp?
The main ingredients for Copycat Bonefish Grill Bang Bang Shrimp include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.
How long does it take to make Copycat Bonefish Grill Bang Bang Shrimp?
The total time to make Copycat Bonefish Grill Bang Bang Shrimp includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.
Can I make Copycat Bonefish Grill Bang Bang Shrimp ahead of time?
Yes, Copycat Bonefish Grill Bang Bang Shrimp can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.
What can I serve with Copycat Bonefish Grill Bang Bang Shrimp?
Copycat Bonefish Grill Bang Bang Shrimp pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.
Is Copycat Bonefish Grill Bang Bang Shrimp suitable for special diets?
Depending on the ingredients used, Copycat Bonefish Grill Bang Bang Shrimp may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.
Final Thoughts
I hope this Copycat Bonefish Grill Bang Bang Shrimp recipe inspires you to bring a little restaurant flair into your home kitchen with ease and joy. Cooking doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious, and sharing these flavorful bites with your loved ones is the best reward. I’d love to hear how your version turns out—don’t hesitate to drop a comment or share your own twists!
