Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta with Roasted Broccoli

If you’re craving a dish that perfectly balances creamy, spicy, and savory flavors, look no further than this Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta with Roasted Broccoli. This recipe combines succulent shrimp tossed in a luscious bang bang sauce with tender pasta and crisp roasted broccoli, making for a vibrant meal that’s as satisfying as it is beautiful. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

This Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta with Roasted Broccoli stands out because it masterfully fuses the spicy-sweet kick of classic Bang Bang sauce with the comforting texture of pasta and the wholesome goodness of roasted vegetables. The shrimp are perfectly seasoned and coated in a creamy sauce that isn’t overwhelming but delivers just the right amount of heat, complemented by the smoky notes from the roasted broccoli. Plus, it’s quick to prepare and uses simple ingredients you probably already have on hand.

What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility—you can easily adjust the spice level, swap pasta types, or even add other veggies. It’s perfect for anyone who loves rich, bold flavors but wants a balanced, nourishing meal. And since it’s all made in one pan and oven-roasted, cleanup is a breeze!

Ingredient Rundown

• 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine): Choose your favorite long pasta to soak up the creamy sauce and provide the perfect base.
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star protein—juicy, tender, and quick to cook.
• 2 cups broccoli florets: Roasted until slightly crisp on the edges, adding a smoky crunch and a dose of green goodness.
• 3 tablespoons olive oil: For roasting the broccoli and sautéing the shrimp.
• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced: Adds aromatic depth and a hint of spice.
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise: The creamy base for the bang bang sauce, creating a luscious coating for the shrimp.
• 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce: Brings a sweet and tangy heat that defines the bang bang flavor.
• 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste): Adds a spicy kick—feel free to dial it up or down depending on your heat tolerance.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Infuses the shrimp with a subtle smoky aroma that complements the sauce and roasted broccoli.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance every layer of flavor.
• 2 green onions, chopped for garnish: Adds freshness and a pop of color to the finished dish.

Equipment Breakdown

• Large pot: For boiling the pasta perfectly al dente.
• Baking sheet: To roast the broccoli evenly and get that slight char.
• Large skillet or frying pan: For sautéing the shrimp and garlic to tender perfection.
• Mixing bowl: To whisk together the bang bang sauce ingredients smoothly.
• Colander: For draining the cooked pasta.
• Tongs or spatula: To toss everything together without breaking the pasta or shrimp.

Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta with Roasted Broccoli: From Prep to Plate

Step 1: Roast the Broccoli

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the broccoli florets with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 15-20 minutes until they’re tender and slightly caramelized on the edges. This roasting brings out a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the spicy shrimp.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the broccoli roasts, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta of choice—linguine or fettuccine—and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy water will help loosen the sauce later if needed.

Step 3: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, minced garlic, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste and adjust the spice level by adding more sriracha if you prefer extra heat.

Step 4: Sauté the Shrimp

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp lightly with salt, pepper, and a pinch of smoked paprika. Add the shrimp to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from heat.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the shrimp. Pour the bang bang sauce over the pasta and shrimp, tossing gently to coat. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Add Roasted Broccoli and Garnish

Fold in the roasted broccoli carefully to maintain its texture. Sprinkle chopped green onions over the top for a fresh, vibrant finish. Serve immediately and watch this dish disappear!

For a different take on shrimp and broccoli, you might enjoy this Easy Shrimp And Broccoli Stir Fry, which offers a quick and flavorful alternative.

Seasonal Spins

• Spring: Add fresh peas or asparagus for a bright, fresh twist.
• Summer: Toss in sun-dried tomatoes or sweet corn for sweetness.
• Fall: Swap broccoli with roasted Brussels sprouts or butternut squash for earthy flavors.
• Winter: Incorporate kale or Swiss chard for a hearty, warming meal.

Chef’s Notes

• Make sure not to overcook the shrimp—they cook very quickly and become rubbery if left too long.
• If you prefer a lighter sauce, substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for tang and creaminess.
• Roasting the broccoli at a high temperature is key to achieving that perfect caramelization and flavor.
• Feel free to experiment with different pasta shapes; penne or rigatoni also work well with this sauce.
• For an extra protein boost, add toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds on top.

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

This Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta with Roasted Broccoli is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, warm gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the shrimp and broccoli may change.

Popular Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture, which can affect the sauce’s consistency.

Is there a substitute for mayonnaise in the bang bang sauce?

You can replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier version. Just note that the flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

How spicy is this dish?

It has a moderate level of heat thanks to the sriracha and sweet chili sauce, but you can easily adjust the spice by adding more or less sriracha according to your preference.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

While the shrimp is the star here, you can swap it out for crispy tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian version, keeping the same bang bang sauce and roasted broccoli for flavor.

Serve with These

• Rasta Pasta Recipe – For a colorful, creamy pasta side that complements this dish.
• Easy Shrimp And Broccoli Stir Fry – A quick stir fry option if you want to switch up your shrimp dishes.
• Garlic bread or crusty French bread – Perfect for mopping up the creamy bang bang sauce.
• A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette – Balances the richness with freshness.

Wrap-Up

This Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta with Roasted Broccoli is a powerhouse of flavor and texture wrapped into one effortless dish. The creamy, spicy shrimp sauce coats tender pasta and smoky roasted broccoli for a meal that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple to make. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining friends, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your dinner rotation. Give it a try tonight and enjoy the vibrant flavors that make this recipe a true winner!

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