Bang Bang Sauce came into my kitchen on a rushed weeknight, when dinner needed saving. A few simple ingredients whisked together, and suddenly, I had a creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce that brought everything to life. It reminded me of my grandmother’s secret sauces, quick to make, impossible to forget.
Now it’s always in my fridge, ready to elevate whatever I’m cooking.
Here’s why this homemade Bang Bang Sauce belongs in your recipe rotation:
- Takes less than 5 minutes to make
- Made with easy-to-find ingredients
- Balances creamy, sweet, and spicy flavors
- Works with shrimp, chicken, bowls, and more
- Simple to adapt for vegan, keto, or low-sugar diets
Next, let’s explore what Bang Bang Sauce really is, and why it’s become a cult favorite.
Print
Bang Bang Sauce (2025)
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Bang Bang Sauce is a creamy, sweet, and spicy condiment that comes together in under 5 minutes. It’s perfect for shrimp, chicken, veggies, or bowls, and incredibly easy to customize.
Ingredients
- ½ cup (120 g) mayonnaise
- ¼ cup (66 g) Thai sweet chili sauce
- 1–2 teaspoons (6–12 g) Sriracha
- 2 teaspoons (14 g) honey
Instructions
- Add mayonnaise to a medium bowl.
- Pour in Thai sweet chili sauce and Sriracha.
- Drizzle in honey for balance.
- Whisk everything until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.
- Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Notes
- You can make your own Thai sweet chili sauce at home using our recipe.
- To lighten the sauce, substitute half the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt.
- For a vegan version, use egg-free mayonnaise and ensure your chili sauce contains no fish sauce.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Sauces
- Method: Whisk
- Cuisine: American Asian-Fusion
What Is Bang Bang Sauce?
Bang Bang Sauce is a bold, creamy condiment that blends sweet, spicy, and tangy elements in one simple recipe. Although its exact origin remains unclear, the sauce rose to fame in American Asian-fusion restaurants and quickly made its way into home kitchens.
At its heart, this sauce mixes mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha. When combined, these ingredients create a smooth and vibrant dip or drizzle that enhances almost any savory dish.
Where the Name Comes From
Many believe the name “Bang Bang” comes from the explosive flavor profile rather than its ingredients. Some trace the term back to the Chinese dish “Bang Bang Chicken,” where meat was traditionally pounded for tenderness. However, the sauce itself likely emerged from American menus, especially the popular Bang Bang Shrimp dish at Bonefish Grill.
Why It’s So Popular Now
Today, home cooks use Bang Bang Sauce far beyond seafood. Thanks to its quick prep and bold flavor, it’s become a go-to for elevating meals. Here are just a few ways to use it:
- Drizzle it on shrimp, chicken, or tofu
- Add richness to poke bowls or noodle salads
- Serve it as a dip for fries, veggies, or spring rolls
- Spread it in wraps or burgers for a spicy kick
Because it’s so easy to customize, you can also adjust the heat or make it fit your diet. Whether you want it extra spicy or completely vegan, Bang Bang Sauce has you covered.
Ingredients & Flavor Breakdown
Bang Bang Sauce stands out for its bold balance of flavors. Each ingredient plays a unique role, and together, they create a smooth, crave-worthy condiment. Even better, it comes together in minutes with pantry staples.
Let’s break it down:
| Ingredient | Role in Flavor |
|---|---|
| ½ cup (120 g) mayonnaise | Acts as the creamy base that binds everything together |
| ¼ cup (66 g) Thai sweet chili sauce | Introduces sweet, garlicky heat with a gentle acidity |
| 1–2 tsp (6–12 g) Sriracha | Brings bold spice and adds depth |
| 2 tsp (14 g) honey | Softens the heat and boosts the sweetness |
The mayonnaise helps stabilize the sauce through emulsification, a process that binds oil and water into a smooth mixture. Food52 offers a clear breakdown of how emulsification works in sauces like mayo and aioli, from the science to practical tips. The mayonnaise stabilizes the sauce through emulsification. Learn more about how emulsions work in sauces.
Additionally, this sauce holds its consistency well. Thanks to the emulsifying nature of mayo, the mixture remains smooth and spoonable even after chilling.
Pro tip: Always choose a high-quality mayonnaise and authentic Thai chili sauce like Mae Ploy. These small upgrades noticeably improve both taste and texture.
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Time needed: 5 minutes
This Bang Bang Sauce comes together in minutes, but every step matters. To achieve the ideal texture and flavor, follow this process closely.
- Begin with the creamy base
First, scoop ½ cup (120 g) of mayonnaise into a mixing bowl. This creates the rich foundation the other ingredients will cling to.
- Add layers of flavor
Next, pour in ¼ cup (66 g) of Thai sweet chili sauce. After that, add 1 to 2 teaspoons (6–12 g) of Sriracha, depending on how much heat you enjoy.
- Incorporate the sweetness
Then, stir in 2 teaspoons (14 g) of honey. This not only balances the spice but also rounds out the flavor with smooth sweetness.
- Whisk thoroughly
Now, grab a small whisk or spoon. Mix everything until the sauce looks glossy and fully combined. At this point, it should be thick, silky, and spoonable.
- Adjust to your taste
Once blended, give it a taste. If it feels too spicy, add a little more mayo or honey. On the other hand, if it needs more kick, add a few extra drops of Sriracha.
- Store or serve immediately
Finally, spoon it into an airtight container or keep it in a covered bowl. Store it in the refrigerator for up to four days, and always give it a stir before reusing.
Pro Tip:
If the sauce looks too thick after refrigeration, stir in a teaspoon of water or lime juice to loosen it slightly.
How to Use Bang Bang Sauce
Bang Bang Sauce isn’t just for shrimp, once you try it, you’ll find endless ways to work it into meals. Because it balances creaminess, heat, and sweetness, it plays well with both crispy and fresh dishes.
Here are some of the most popular uses:
- Bang Bang Shrimp or Chicken
Drizzle it generously over crispy fried shrimp or chicken bites for a restaurant-style appetizer at home. - Buddha Bowls and Poke Bowls
Spoon it over rice, veggies, tofu, or raw fish for a bold and creamy finish that ties all the elements together. - Fries, Wedges, and Onion Rings
Serve it as a dipping sauce alongside fried or roasted potatoes for an upgraded snack or side. - Tacos and Wraps
Add a layer of flavor to chicken wraps, fish tacos, or grilled veggie burritos. It also works well as a mayo replacement. - Burger and Sandwich Spread
Use it as a spicy alternative to plain mayo on burgers or grilled sandwiches. - Roasted Vegetables
Toss roasted cauliflower or Brussels sprouts in the sauce for a savory, sticky coating. - Egg Rolls or Spring Rolls
Replace standard soy or peanut dips with this bold, creamy option for a fusion twist.
Storage Tip:
Always store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 4 days. Before serving again, stir it briefly to restore texture.
Bonus Tip:
If you’re meal-prepping, make a double batch. That way, you’ll always have some on hand to liven up quick lunches or weeknight dinners.
Bang Bang Sauce Variations
Bang Bang Sauce is wonderfully flexible. Whether you’re cooking for dietary needs or simply want to switch things up, these variations let you enjoy its bold flavor in new ways.
Health-Conscious and Diet-Friendly Versions
- Vegan Bang Bang Sauce: To make it vegan, replace the mayo with a plant-based version. Additionally, double-check that your chili sauce doesn’t contain fish sauce, as some brands do. Even with these swaps, the result stays creamy, flavorful, and animal product–free.
- Milder Version: Prefer a gentler kick? In that case, reduce the Sriracha to ½ teaspoon. You can also stir in a little extra honey to balance the heat with added sweetness.
- Yogurt-Based Option: For a lighter twist, substitute half the mayo with plain Greek yogurt. This not only cuts down on fat but also adds a clean, tangy finish. It’s ideal for wraps, salads, or light protein dishes.
- Keto-Friendly Version: To keep it low-carb, use a sugar-free sweet chili sauce and swap the honey for monk fruit or erythritol. Moreover, make sure your mayo is keto-approved. This combo works well with grilled meats or high-fat snacks. For more low-carb options, check this guide to keto-friendly sweeteners by Diet Doctor.
Flavor-Boosting and Creative Twists
- Spicier Version: If you like it hot, increase the Sriracha or mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper. For even more heat and complexity, a few drops of chili oil do wonders.
- Asian-Inspired Fusion: Add a splash of rice vinegar, a drizzle of sesame oil, or a bit of freshly grated ginger. These subtle layers deepen the flavor and give the sauce a rich umami note, perfect for noodle bowls, dumplings, or stir-fries.
No matter which variation you choose, Bang Bang Sauce remains incredibly forgiving. As always, taste as you go, and don’t hesitate to tweak it depending on your mood or the dish it’s complementing.
FAQs About Bang Bang Sauce
It is typically made with mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and a touch of honey. These ingredients combine to create a creamy, spicy-sweet condiment that pairs well with seafood, chicken, or vegetables. While recipes may vary slightly, this base offers a balanced flavor that’s easy to customize based on dietary needs or spice preference.
Although both are creamy and used in similar dishes, Bang Bang Sauce and Yum Yum Sauce are not the same. This Sauce has a sweet and spicy kick thanks to chili sauce and Sriracha. Yum Yum Sauce, on the other hand, is milder, often made with mayo, ketchup, and paprika, and typically served at Japanese steakhouses.
You can substitute Bang Bang Sauce by mixing mayonnaise with hot sauce and a bit of honey or agave. For a simpler option, try combining ranch dressing with sweet chili sauce for a milder flavor. While it won’t be an exact match, these alternatives can work in a pinch for dipping or drizzling.
Bang Bang Sauce is incredibly versatile. It works beautifully as a drizzle over shrimp, grilled chicken, tofu, poke bowls, and tacos. You can also use it as a dip for fries, spring rolls, or crispy vegetables. Some even spread it on sandwiches or burgers as a spicy mayo alternative.
Final Tips & Pairings
Bang Bang Sauce is incredibly versatile. Whether you’re meal-prepping or hosting guests, it adds a creamy, spicy touch that transforms everyday dishes. To help you get even more from your time in the kitchen, here are a few flavor-packed recipes from Recipes to Gather that pair beautifully with it:
- Looking for another umami-packed condiment?
Then try our Tram Sauce Recipe. It’s bold, deeply savory, and ideal for grilled meats or rice bowls. Additionally, it works well as a dipping sauce for fried appetizers. - Need a fresh, crunchy contrast to creamy sauces?
This Broccoli Cauliflower Salad delivers crisp texture and a mild bite. Moreover, it holds up perfectly when served with a spoonful of Bang Bang Sauce. - Craving warm, comfort food with a spicy twist?
In that case, our Root Vegetable Gratin is a must-try. Its creamy layers pair surprisingly well with a drizzle of this spicy sauce, making it a standout dish. - Final tip:
Be sure to make a double batch of Bang Bang Sauce. Since it keeps well in the fridge, you’ll find endless reasons to use it, on tacos, bowls, sandwiches, or roasted vegetables.