Easy Bang Bang Sauce Recipe (3 Ingredients!)

Introduction

Bang Bang Sauce exploded in popularity thanks to Bonefish Grill’s famous Bang Bang Shrimp—and for good reason. This creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet sauce can elevate almost anything: shrimp, chicken, sushi, sandwiches, even roasted veggies.

I first tried it at a potluck, where someone served it over grilled chicken skewers. I remember thinking, What is this magic?! Since then, I’ve been on a mission to recreate a healthier, simplified homemade Bang Bang Sauce recipe using just three ingredients and this version nails it.

What is Bang Bang Sauce?

Bang Bang Sauce is a creamy, spicy-sweet condiment that originated at Bonefish Grill as a topping for their iconic Bang Bang Shrimp. Since then, it’s taken off in home kitchens, food trucks, and fast-casual spots across the country.

You’ll find variations of this bang sauce recipe used on tacos, burgers, bowls, and even fries. It’s known for transforming simple dishes with just a drizzle.

What Does Bang Bang Sauce Taste Like?

Bang Bang Sauce delivers a flavor punch that’s creamy, sweet, spicy, and just a little tangy—all in perfect balance. The base is mayo, which gives it that rich, smooth mouthfeel. The sweet Thai chili sauce brings a subtle stickiness and a sugar-forward heat, while the sriracha cuts through with its vinegary zing and peppery burn. It’s the kind of sauce that makes you go back for a second dip… even if you’re out of food.

It’s the ultimate flavor bridge—just as at home drizzled on sushi as it is dunked with fries. No single flavor dominates; instead, they blend into a bold, addictive condiment that lights up whatever you put it on.

Flavor Profile Breakdown:

• Creamy and Rich – From the mayo base; coats food beautifully.
  
• Sweet and Tangy – Thai chili sauce adds both sugar and a touch of vinegar.
• Mild to Medium Heat – Thanks to sriracha; adjustable based on your preference.
• Slightly Garlicky – If your sriracha has garlic (which most do), you’ll get that gentle savory kick.
• Balanced & Bold – Not too spicy, not too sweet—just right for repeated use.

Sensory Tip:

Dip a roasted potato wedge or a piece of grilled shrimp into the sauce, and you’ll get that creamy snap followed by sweetness, then a lingering warmth. It builds gently—never overwhelming.

What is Bang Bang Sauce Made Of?

The beauty of this bang bang sauce recipe is its simplicity. You only need three ingredients to create something restaurant-worthy in under a minute. These ingredients each bring a distinct quality that makes the sauce work so well.

Ingredient	Role in Flavor & Texture
Olive Oil Mayonnaise	Adds creaminess and body. It’s the base that holds everything together. Using olive oil mayo adds a slightly healthier fat profile and a smoother finish.
Sweet Thai Chili Sauce	Provides sweetness, tang, and subtle heat. It’s the star of the show—the sauce gets its sticky, sweet edge from here. Look for one with visible chili flakes for extra flavor.
Sriracha	Brings that vinegary chili heat and depth. It adds punch and contrast to the sweetness. You can dial this up or down depending on how spicy you like it.

Why These Three Work:

• Balance: The mayo mellows out the heat and sweetness, giving you a creamy canvas that softens sharp flavors.
• Contrast: Sweetness from the chili sauce balances the heat of the sriracha.
• Customizable: You control the ratios—more chili sauce for sweetness, more sriracha for fire, or more mayo to tone it all down.
  

Chef’s Tip:

Always taste and adjust. Start with the basic ratio, then fine-tune to match what you’re pairing it with. Grilled chicken? Go spicier. Tempura veggies? Maybe a little sweeter.

Substitutions

Running low on ingredients or aiming for a healthier version of this bangbang sauce? No problem—this recipe is super adaptable. Here are some easy swaps based on what you’ve got or your dietary needs:

• Vegan Mayo – Perfect for a plant-based version. Use a high-quality brand to keep that creamy texture without sacrificing flavor.
• Greek Yogurt – A great swap for mayo if you want a healthy bang bang sauce with added protein and tang. Go for full-fat to keep it rich.
• Garlic Chili Sauce – A smart choice if you want less sugar and more savory heat. It’s chunkier than sriracha and not as sweet, so adjust amounts to taste.
• Hot Sauce (like Frank’s RedHot) – If you don’t have sriracha or prefer a different heat profile, this works well. Keep in mind it’s more vinegary and less garlicky.
• “Bam Sauce” Style – Want something milder for kids or heat-sensitive guests? Reduce the sriracha and increase the sweet chili sauce for a tamer, sweeter version.

Chef’s Tip: Taste as you go. Start with small amounts of any substitute and adjust based on the flavor intensity you’re aiming for.

How to Make Bang Bang Sauce

This homemade bang bang sauce recipe is about as easy as it gets—just mix and enjoy. No cooking required, no fancy tools, just one bowl and a spoon.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup olive oil mayonnaise
• ¼ cup sweet Thai chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon sriracha (or more/less to taste)

Instructions:

1. Add all ingredients to a small mixing bowl.
2. Whisk until the mixture is fully smooth and well blended.
3. Taste and adjust: Want more kick? Add sriracha. Prefer it sweeter? Add more chili sauce.
4. Store the finished sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
5. Use within 5 days for best flavor and freshness.

Pro Tip: Let it chill for 15–30 minutes before serving. The flavors meld better and the texture thickens slightly, which makes it cling beautifully to food.

Tips & FAQ

What is Bang Bang Sauce used for?

The better question might be: what can’t you use it on? This versatile condiment works with just about everything. Here are some favorite ways to put your bang bang sauce recipe to work:

• Dipping Sauce – Ideal for shrimp, chicken nuggets, egg rolls, fries, and even raw veggies.
• Drizzle – Over poke bowls, sushi rolls, grain bowls, or roasted sweet potatoes.
• Spread – Slather it on wraps, burgers, sandwiches, or lettuce cups for a flavor boost.
• Sauce Base – Mix it into slaws, noodle salads, or pasta salads for a creamy, spicy twist.
• Glaze Alternative – Brush it on grilled chicken, tofu, or salmon toward the end of cooking.
  

Chef’s Tip: Want a thinner drizzle for bowls or salads? Add 1–2 teaspoons of water or rice vinegar to loosen the consistency without diluting flavor too much.

How long does Bang Bang Sauce last?

• Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It stays fresh for up to 5 days—after that, the texture can separate and the flavor may fade.

Storage Tip: Stir well before each use if it’s been sitting. The oils may naturally separate a bit in the fridge.

Nutritional Info (Per Serving)

Here’s a rough estimate for one serving (about 2 tablespoons):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	135
Fat	10g
Carbohydrates	11g
Sodium	366mg
Protein	0g
Fiber	0g

Note: Values may vary based on brand and portion size. Use a nutrition calculator if you’re tracking closely.

Budget Tip: Buying ingredients like mayo and Thai chili sauce in bulk or store-brand can cut that cost even further.

What to Serve It With

Looking for pairing inspiration? This bang sauce recipe is a flavor chameleon. Here are some top combos:

• Air-Fried or Grilled Shrimp – The OG pairing that made this sauce famous.
• Chicken Kabobs or Nuggets – Use as a dip or glaze post-grill.
• Sushi Bowls or Poke – Adds creaminess and a spicy-sweet pop.
• Crispy Fries or Tater Tots – Skip the ketchup; this is way more exciting.
• Roasted Cauliflower or Brussels Sprouts – A drizzle turns them into an appetizer.
• Tofu or Tempeh – Marinate lightly or spoon on after pan-searing.
• Lettuce Wraps – Adds creaminess and heat without weighing it down.

Plating Tip: Spoon it into a squeeze bottle or piping bag for cleaner drizzles and better presentation when serving guests.

Benefits of This Bang Bang Sauce Recipe

Benefit	Why It Matters
Only 3 Ingredients	Saves time and reduces complexity—perfect for beginners or busy weeknights.
Takes 1 Minute to Make	No cooking, chopping, or prep work—just mix and go.
Customizable Heat	You control the spice level—great for families or picky eaters.
Versatile Use	Works with shrimp, chicken, sushi, veggies, bowls, wraps, and more.
Budget-Friendly	Total cost is under $2 for the whole batch—much cheaper than restaurant sauces.
Healthier Options Available	Easily swap in Greek yogurt or vegan mayo to match your nutrition goals.
Crowd-Pleaser	Bold, balanced flavor that everyone enjoys—great for parties or family dinners.
Stores Well	Keeps for up to 5 days, so you can prep it ahead or enjoy leftovers all week.

FAQ

Can I make Bang Bang Sauce without sriracha?

Yes! Use garlic chili sauce or a milder hot sauce for a bang bang sauce without sriracha.

Is Bang Bang Sauce spicy?

It’s mildly spicy by default, but you can increase or decrease the heat based on your taste.

Can I make a healthy version?

Absolutely. Use Greek yogurt or avocado oil mayo for a healthy bang bang sauce option.

Conclusion + Call to Action

This bang bang sauce recipe is fast, flavorful, and endlessly versatile. Whether you’re tossing it with shrimp, drizzling over roasted vegetables, or dunking crispy fries, this sauce instantly levels up any meal. And the best part? You probably already have all three ingredients in your kitchen.

Give it a try today and experience a bold, homemade flavor boost—done in under a minute, budget-friendly, and totally customizable.

Looking for another comfort-food favorite that pairs beautifully with bold sauces? Don’t miss this Smothered Chicken and Gravy Recipe it’s hearty, satisfying, and perfect for cozy dinners.