These grilled shrimp skewers feature a creamy, sweet, and spicy glaze that delivers bold flavor in under ten minutes of cooking. They are an excellent choice for summer entertaining or as a high-protein weeknight dinner.
List of ingredients
- 3 tablespoons light mayonnaise – provides a creamy base for the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons scallions – chopped fine, plus more for garnish.
- 2 tablespoons Thai Sweet Chili Sauce – adds a balanced sweetness and tang.
- ½ teaspoons Sriracha – adds a spicy kick; adjust based on heat preference.
- 40 large raw shrimp (13 oz) – shelled and deveined.
- fresh cracked pepper – used for basic seasoning.
- oil spray – prevents the shrimp from sticking to the grill.
- sesame seeds – optional garnish for added texture.
step-by-step instructions
- Prepare the sauce: Combine the light mayonnaise, chopped scallions, Thai sweet chili sauce, and sriracha in a small mixing bowl. Set the sauce aside for later use.
- Prepare the skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 20 minutes to prevent burning. Metal skewers do not require this step.
- Assemble the skewers: Season the raw shrimp lightly with fresh cracked pepper. Thread 5 shrimp onto each of the 8 skewers.
- Heat the grill: Preheat a clean grill to medium heat and lightly coat the grates with oil spray.
- Grill the shrimp: Carefully place the skewers on the hot grill. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes total, turning once, until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through.
- Glaze and serve: Transfer the cooked shrimp to a platter. Quickly brush the prepared bang bang sauce onto the shrimp. Garnish with additional scallions and sesame seeds, then serve immediately.
Optimal Shrimp Selection and Preparation
Choosing Shrimp Size and Grade
For skewers, large shrimp (typically 21/25 or 26/30 count) are ideal because they hold their shape and do not overcook as quickly as smaller varieties. Ensure you buy raw shrimp rather than pre-cooked to avoid a rubbery texture after grilling. Fresh shrimp should smell like the ocean, not fishy, and have a translucent appearance.
Thawing Frozen Shrimp Safely
If using frozen shrimp, thaw them slowly in the refrigerator overnight to maintain the best texture. For a faster method, place the shrimp in a sealed bag and submerge them in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes. Avoid using warm water or the microwave, as this can partially cook the exterior and ruin the grilling process.
Removing the Vein for Better Texture
Buying pre-shelled and deveined shrimp saves time, but if you prepare them yourself, use a small paring knife to make a shallow slit along the back. Use the tip of the knife or a toothpick to remove the dark digestive tract. This ensures a clean flavor and a more professional presentation on the skewers.
Expert Grilling Guidance
Soaking Wooden Skewers Properly
Wooden skewers must be submerged in water for at least 20 to 30 minutes before they touch the grill. This saturation prevents the wood from igniting or charring, which can leave a burnt taste on the seafood. If you are grilling frequently, investing in stainless steel skewers is a more sustainable and efficient alternative.
Maintaining Medium Grill Heat
A medium heat setting is critical for shrimp because they have very little fat and can burn quickly. If the grill is too hot, the outside will char before the center is opaque. Use a grill thermometer to aim for a temperature around 375-400°F for consistent results across all skewers.
Recognizing the Perfect Shrimp Curvature
Pay close attention to the shape of the shrimp as they cook. A perfectly cooked shrimp forms a gentle ‘C’ shape; if it curls tightly into an ‘O’ shape, it is overcooked and will likely be tough. Remove them from the heat the moment they turn opaque and reach that ‘C’ curve.
Bang Bang Sauce Modifications
Controlling the Spicy Heat Level
The amount of Sriracha can be easily adjusted to suit your guests’ preferences. For a milder version, reduce the Sriracha to ¼ teaspoon or replace it with a mild paprika for color without the heat. If you prefer a very spicy glaze, double the Sriracha or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix.
Swapping Mayo for Lighter Alternatives
While light mayonnaise provides the traditional creamy profile, you can use plain Greek yogurt for a tangier, higher-protein version. To keep the recipe vegan, a plant-based mayonnaise works perfectly as a 1:1 substitute. Ensure the alternative has a thick consistency so the sauce adheres to the shrimp.
Adding Fresh Ginger for Extra Zing
To enhance the Asian-inspired flavor profile, grate a teaspoon of fresh ginger into the sauce. Ginger adds a bright, peppery note that cuts through the richness of the mayonnaise. This is particularly effective if you are serving the shrimp as part of a larger meal with rice or noodles.
Alternative Cooking Methods for Shrimp
Achieving a Char in the Oven
If you do not have a grill, you can roast the skewers in the oven at 350°F (175°C). Place the skewers on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 10 to 15 minutes, turning them halfway through. For a charred look, turn on the broiler for the last 2 minutes of cooking, watching closely to prevent burning.
Air Fryer Settings and Timing
The air fryer is an efficient way to get a grilled effect in a short time. Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook the shrimp skewers for 5 to 6 minutes. Avoid overcrowding the basket to allow the hot air to circulate evenly around each piece of shrimp.
Searing Shrimp in a Cast Iron Skillet
For a stovetop version, use a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat with a tablespoon of oil. Sear the shrimp for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown. If you are using skewers in a pan, ensure the pan is large enough to accommodate the length of the sticks without overlapping.
Meal Pairing and Presentation
Creating a Balanced Shrimp Bowl
Turn these skewers into a complete meal by serving them over a bed of jasmine rice or quinoa. Add steamed edamame, grilled zucchini, and shredded carrots to provide color and nutrition. Drizzle extra bang bang sauce over the vegetables to tie the whole bowl together.
Serving as Tacos with Slaw
Remove the shrimp from the skewers and place them into warm corn tortillas. Top with a crunchy cabbage slaw dressed in lime juice and vinegar to contrast the creaminess of the sauce. Add sliced avocado and fresh cilantro for a fresh, taco-truck style presentation.
Preparing as a Low-Carb Appetizer
For a keto-friendly or low-carb option, serve the skewers as is, or wrap them in large butter lettuce leaves. The crispness of the lettuce complements the warm, glazed shrimp. Pair them with a side of sliced cucumbers and radishes for a refreshing platter.
Storage and Food Safety Guidelines
Safe Refrigeration and Shelf Life
Cooked shrimp skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep the bang bang sauce in a separate container to prevent the shrimp from becoming soggy. Ensure the shrimp are completely cooled before sealing the container to avoid condensation.
Reheating Without Overcooking
To maintain the texture, reheat the shrimp in a skillet over medium-low heat for 2 to 3 minutes. Avoid using the microwave on high power, as this often makes shrimp rubbery. If using a microwave, use a low power setting and heat in short 30-second bursts.
Preparing Ingredients in Advance
You can prep the sauce and skewer the shrimp up to 24 hours before you plan to grill. Store the assembled skewers in the refrigerator on a tray covered with plastic wrap. This reduces the active prep time on the day of your event, leaving you only the grilling and glazing to finish.
Solving Common Cooking Problems
Preventing Shrimp from Sticking to Grates
Shrimp have a tendency to stick to grill grates due to their high protein content. To prevent this, ensure the grill is fully preheated and generously coated with oil spray or a brushed layer of vegetable oil. Avoid moving the shrimp too early; they will naturally release from the grate once a sear has formed.
Fixing a Sauce That is Too Spicy
If you find the bang bang sauce is too hot after mixing, do not add water as it will thin the consistency. Instead, stir in an additional tablespoon of light mayonnaise or a teaspoon of honey. This helps neutralize the capsaicin from the Sriracha while maintaining the creaminess.
Preventing Dried-Out Shrimp
Dry shrimp are usually the result of cooking at too high a temperature for too long. To prevent this, always use a timer and monitor the color changes. The moment the shrimp turn from translucent to an opaque white-pink, they are ready to be removed from the heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the sauce on bang bang shrimp?
The sauce is a creamy blend of light mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and finely chopped scallions. This combination creates a balance of creamy, sweet, and spicy flavors that complement the natural sweetness of the shrimp.
What is the best way to grill shrimp?
The most effective way to grill shrimp is by using skewers, which prevents the seafood from falling through the grill grates. Soaking wooden skewers in water and maintaining a medium heat ensures the shrimp cook evenly without burning the sticks.
How do I cook these shrimp skewers if I don’t have a grill?
You can use an oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, an air fryer at 400°F for 5-6 minutes, or a cast iron skillet on the stovetop. Each method provides a great result as long as you watch for the shrimp to become opaque and form a ‘C’ shape.
Print
Bang Bang Shrimp Skewers
- Total Time: 38 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
Juicy grilled shrimp skewers meet irresistible bang bang sauce in this easy recipe that’s perfect for summer entertaining or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons light mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons scallions, chopped fine
- 2 tablespoons Thai Sweet Chili Sauce
- ½ teaspoon Sriracha
- 40 large raw shrimp (13 oz), shelled and deveined
- Fresh cracked pepper
- Oil spray
- Sesame seeds (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1: Combine the mayo, scallions, sweet chili sauce and sriracha sauce in a small bowl. Set aside.
- Step 2: Soak wooden skewers in water at least 20 minutes (or use metal ones to avoid this step).
- Step 3: Season shrimp lightly with pepper. Place 5 shrimp on 8 skewers.
- Step 4: Heat a clean, lightly oiled grill to medium heat; when the grill is hot, add the shrimp, taking care not to burn the skewers.
- Step 5: Grill on both sides for about 6 – 8 minutes total cooking time or until the shrimp is opaque and cooked through.
- Step 6: Set shrimp aside on a platter and quickly brush sauce onto the shrimp. Garnish with scallions and sesame seeds and serve immediately.
Notes
Brushing the bang bang sauce on after the shrimp cooks prevents it from burning. If using wooden skewers, soak them for 20 minutes to prevent burning.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 skewers
- Calories: 109 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 715 mg
- Fat: 3.5 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 7 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 12.5 g
- Cholesterol: 118 mg
Keywords: bang bang shrimp, grilled shrimp, shrimp skewers, Asian appetizer, low carb
