If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with flavor and comes together in a flash, look no further than this Easy Instant Pot Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta. This recipe combines tender spaghetti with juicy shrimp, all enveloped in a creamy, spicy sauce. It’s a delightful dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests at your next gathering. The Instant Pot makes the process seamless, allowing you to spend less time cooking and more time enjoying your meal. Let’s dive in!

What Makes This Recipe Special

This Easy Instant Pot Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is special for numerous reasons. First, it transforms a classic shrimp dish into a comforting pasta meal that’s both filling and satisfying. The creamy sauce made from light mayonnaise and Thai sweet chili sauce offers a delightful balance of sweetness and heat, while the lime juice brightens up the flavors. Furthermore, cooking everything in the Instant Pot means you can enjoy a rich, flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a one-pot wonder that minimizes cleanup, making it a family favorite!

What Goes Into Easy Instant Pot Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta

To create this delicious dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 pound dried spaghetti
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon coconut oil
4 ¼ cups water
1 pound raw jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
¾ cup light mayonnaise
¾ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
¼ cup lime juice
1 tablespoon Sriracha sauce (more as needed)
½ cup chopped scallions
Salt and pepper to taste

Hardware & Gadgets

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following tools on hand:

Instant Pot: The star of the show, allowing for quick cooking and easy cleanup.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring and sautéing without scratching your pot.
Knife and cutting board: Essential for prepping your garlic and scallions.
Serving dishes: To present your delicious creation beautifully.

From Start to Finish: Easy Instant Pot Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta

Now that you have your ingredients and tools ready, let’s walk through the steps to make this Easy Instant Pot Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta.

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Begin by turning your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” setting. Add 1 teaspoon of coconut oil and let it heat up. Once hot, add the 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!

Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti

Next, add the 1 pound of dried spaghetti to the pot, followed by 4 ¼ cups of water. Stir to ensure the pasta is submerged. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” for 4 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release of the pressure.

Step 3: Add the Shrimp

Open the lid and add the 1 pound of raw jumbo shrimp to the pot. Stir well to combine with the pasta. Close the lid again and set the Instant Pot to “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” for 2 more minutes. Once done, perform another quick release.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a separate bowl, whisk together the ¾ cup light mayonnaise, ¾ cup Thai sweet chili sauce, ¼ cup lime juice, and 1 tablespoon Sriracha sauce. Adjust the heat level by adding more Sriracha if desired. Once the shrimp is cooked, pour the sauce into the pot and gently toss everything together.

Step 5: Final Touches

Add salt and pepper to taste, then sprinkle the ½ cup chopped scallions over the top. Give it one last gentle stir to incorporate the scallions and serve immediately.

Spring to Winter: Ideas

This Easy Instant Pot Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is versatile and can be enjoyed year-round. Here are some ideas to adapt it for different seasons:

Spring: Toss in fresh vegetables like asparagus or peas for a pop of color and nutrition.
Summer: Serve chilled as a pasta salad with diced cucumbers and cherry tomatoes.
Fall: Add roasted butternut squash for a warm, cozy twist.
Winter: Serve with a side of garlic bread for a comforting, hearty meal.

Chef’s Rationale

This dish is not only quick and easy but also incredibly satisfying. The combination of flavors in the sauce, with its creamy texture balanced by a hint of acidity from the lime juice, creates a delightful experience. The shrimp cooks perfectly in the Instant Pot, retaining its juiciness, while the spaghetti absorbs all the delicious sauce. It’s a dish that pleases both the palate and the eyes, making it a great choice for any occasion.

Make Ahead Like a Pro

To make your life easier during busy weeks, you can prepare components of this dish ahead of time:

Cook the spaghetti and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water to loosen it up.
Prepare the sauce in advance and keep it in an airtight container in the fridge. Mix it in just before serving.
Wash and chop the scallions ahead of time, so they’re ready to go when you need them.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Instant Pot Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta is a delightful dish that impresses with its vibrant flavors and quick preparation time. Whether you’re a busy parent, a student, or simply someone who loves delicious food, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. With a creamy sauce that’s both sweet and spicy, it’s a meal that satisfies cravings and brings joy to the table. So grab your Instant Pot, gather your ingredients, and get ready to indulge in this mouthwatering pasta dish!