Gluten-Free Dairy-Free Bang Bang Shrimp Recipe for Crispy Flavor

Deliciously crispy fried shrimp coated in a creamy, sweet and spicy sauce, this gluten-free bang bang shrimp is ready in 30 minutes and is sure to become a favorite. Serve it as an appetizer on its own, over rice, or in lettuce wraps for a satisfying dinner. Dairy-free as well.

What is Bang Bang Shrimp?

Bang bang shrimp is a popular American seafood dish known for its contrast of textures and bold, tangy-sweet flavor. Tender shrimp are lightly coated and fried to a crisp, then tossed in a creamy sauce that combines mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, a touch of rice vinegar and sriracha for heat.

The crunchy golden coating paired with the creamy, slightly spicy sauce makes this dish a hit with seafood lovers and a great option for parties, weeknight dinners, or as a shareable appetizer.

Why This Recipe Works

• Simple ingredients: Everything you need is easy to find at most grocery stores.
• Quick and easy: This recipe comes together in about 30 minutes — coat, fry, and toss with sauce.
• Gluten-free and dairy-free: The recipe is naturally gluten-free and can be made dairy-free, making it suitable for many dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Below is an overview of the ingredients. For exact measurements, refer to the recipe card in the instructions section.

Recipe Notes & Substitutions

• Shrimp: Use large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined. Shrimp shrink as they cook, so choose a larger size for a meaty bite. Pat dry before coating.
• Cornstarch substitute: If you need a corn-free option, use tapioca or arrowroot starch.
• Frying oil: Any neutral oil with a high smoke point works — canola, sunflower, or corn oil are good choices.
• Mayonnaise: Regular mayonnaise is used here; swap for vegan mayo to make the recipe egg-free.
• Sweet chili sauce: This provides the characteristic sweetness. Choose a gluten-free brand if needed.
• Vinegar: Rice vinegar adds brightness. Red or white vinegar can substitute in a pinch.
• Sriracha: Adjust the amount based on how spicy you like it.
• Garnish: Thinly sliced green onions and diced tomatoes add color and freshness. Chives also work well.
• Storage: Best eaten immediately. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days; reheat briefly before serving.

How to Make Gluten-Free Bang Bang Shrimp (Step by Step)

1. Heat the oil

Pour vegetable oil into a deep pan or large skillet and heat over medium-high until shimmering.

2. Season the shrimp

Season the peeled, deveined shrimp with salt and black pepper.

3. Coat the shrimp

Dredge the shrimp in cornstarch (or your chosen starch), shaking off excess so each piece is evenly coated.

4. Fry until crispy

Fry the coated shrimp in batches so the oil temperature stays steady. Cook until golden and crisp, about 2–3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

5. Prepare the garnish

While the shrimp cooks, dice tomatoes and slice green onions to use as a fresh garnish.

6. Make the bang bang sauce

In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, rice vinegar, sriracha, and a teaspoon of sugar. Taste and adjust the heat or sweetness to your preference. Set aside.

7. Toss shrimp with sauce

Place the hot, crispy shrimp in a large bowl. Drizzle the prepared sauce over the shrimp and toss gently until each piece is coated.

8. Garnish and serve

Garnish with the sliced green onions and diced tomatoes. Serve as an appetizer, over steamed white rice, cauliflower rice, or in lettuce cups for a light meal.

Tips & Variations

• Swap protein: Use bite-sized chicken or tofu instead of shrimp if preferred.
• Serving ideas: Try the shrimp over rice, cauliflower rice, or in gluten-free corn tortillas for tacos.

Other Gluten-Free Shrimp Recipes

• Crispy Coconut Shrimp (gluten-free, dairy-free)
• Garlic Shrimp with Yellow Squash Noodles (gluten-free, dairy-free)
• Cilantro Lime Rice with Garlic Shrimp (gluten-free, dairy-free)

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