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air fryer bang bang shrimp - featured image

Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp: The Way Grandma Made It


  • Author: Olivia
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

A lighter, crispy version of the classic takeout appetizer made in an air fryer. These shrimp are coated in a creamy, spicy, and sweet bang bang sauce, offering the perfect balance of texture and flavor without the heavy oil.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 23 tablespoons sriracha
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Cooking spray
  • Optional: Chopped cilantro, lime wedges, sliced green onions

Instructions

  1. Thaw frozen shrimp if necessary, rinse under cold water, and pat completely dry with paper towels.
  2. Place dried shrimp in a bowl and pour buttermilk over them. Let soak for 10-15 minutes to tenderize.
  3. While shrimp soak, whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha, honey, lemon juice, soy sauce, and minced garlic in a small bowl. Taste and adjust seasoning, then set aside.
  4. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  5. In another bowl, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  6. Remove shrimp from buttermilk, letting excess drip off. Dredge each shrimp in the flour mixture, pressing gently to coat, and shake off excess.
  7. Place coated shrimp in the air fryer basket in a single layer (cook in batches if necessary).
  8. Lightly spray shrimp with cooking spray.
  9. Air fry at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until pink, opaque, and crispy.
  10. Transfer cooked shrimp to a large bowl and toss gently with the bang bang sauce.
  11. Serve immediately with lime wedges and optional garnishes.

Notes

Ensure shrimp are completely dry before coating to achieve maximum crispiness. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if needed. The sauce can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in the fridge. Reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to restore crunch; do not microwave.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Cuisine: Asian Fusion

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: Approximately 4-6 sh
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 6
  • Sodium: 450
  • Fat: 12
  • Saturated Fat: 2
  • Carbohydrates: 12
  • Protein: 18

Keywords: air fryer shrimp, bang bang shrimp, crispy shrimp, spicy shrimp, healthy appetizer, quick dinner, seafood recipe, air fryer recipes