Bang Bang Salmon Recipe by What Molly Made: A Flavorful Masterpiece You’ll Love in 2025

Let me tell you—if you haven’t tried the famous Bang Bang Salmon recipe from What Molly Made, you’re missing out! This recipe is everything you want in a meal: quick, easy, and bursting with flavor. I mean, who doesn’t love a dish that’s as Instagram-worthy as it is delicious? With its signature creamy, spicy bang bang sauce, this salmon recipe strikes the perfect balance between sweet, savory, and spicy. Plus, it’s versatile enough for a weeknight dinner or a show-stopping main course for entertaining. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so amazing, and I’ll share tips to make your salmon absolutely unforgettable!

What Is Bang Bang Salmon?

Let’s talk about Bang Bang Salmon, one of those dishes that feels fancy but is ridiculously easy to make. If you’ve ever had bang bang shrimp, you already know the vibes: sweet, spicy, creamy, and totally irresistible. Now imagine that same crave-worthy bang bang sauce slathered over a perfectly cooked, flaky salmon filet. Yup, it’s as good as it sounds—and honestly, it’s a game-changer for weeknight dinners.

A Flavor Explosion in Every Bite

The beauty of bang bang salmon lies in its balance of flavors. The sauce is a creamy blend of mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and a kick of sriracha (or any hot sauce you like). It’s the kind of sauce that coats your taste buds in just the right way—sweetness hits first, followed by a little heat that lingers but doesn’t overwhelm. Pair that with the natural richness of salmon, and you’ve got a dish that feels indulgent but isn’t over the top. Plus, the slight char you get when the sauce caramelizes under the broiler? Chef’s kiss.

Why “Bang Bang”?

So, about the name—what’s with the “bang bang”? It’s said to have originated from the popular bang bang chicken in Chinese cuisine, which was named for the banging sound made while tenderizing the chicken. Over time, the term evolved to describe dishes featuring that signature sweet and spicy sauce we all adore. While salmon wasn’t part of the original concept, someone out there had the brilliant idea to marry it with this flavor bomb of a sauce, and the rest is history.

A Fan-Favorite in Kitchens Everywhere

Bang bang salmon has become a go-to for home cooks for a few good reasons. First off, it’s insanely easy to prepare. Like, you can throw this together in under 30 minutes—even if you’re juggling work, kids, or just a busy schedule. It’s also versatile: bake it, air fry it, or even pan-sear it. The sauce does all the heavy lifting, so you don’t need to fuss with complicated marinades or fancy techniques.

And let’s not forget its crowd-pleasing appeal. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or impressing dinner guests, this dish delivers. It’s approachable enough for salmon skeptics (thanks to the addictive sauce) but still feels elevated. Honestly, it’s no wonder recipes like this blow up on Instagram and Pinterest—it’s as photogenic as it is delicious.

So, if you’re craving something bold, flavorful, and surprisingly simple, bang bang salmon might just become your new favorite dinner. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll wonder why you waited this long to make it.

The Signature Bang Bang Sauce: Sweet, Spicy, and Creamy

If Bang Bang Salmon is the star of the show, then the bang bang sauce is its dazzling spotlight. This sauce is what turns a simple salmon filet into a flavor-packed masterpiece. It’s the perfect mix of sweet, spicy, and creamy—like a party for your taste buds. But what makes this sauce so special? Let’s break it down.

The Ingredients That Make It Irresistible

At its core, bang bang sauce is built on a handful of simple, everyday ingredients that somehow work magic together:

• Mayonnaise: The creamy base that ties everything together. It gives the sauce that luscious texture and a rich, slightly tangy flavor.
• Sweet Chili Sauce: The MVP of sweetness with just a touch of garlic and spice. It adds depth without overpowering the sauce.
• Sriracha (or Hot Sauce): This is where the “bang” comes in. You can adjust the amount depending on how much heat you want.
• Honey (Optional): For an extra layer of sweetness that complements the heat. If your sweet chili sauce is already sweet enough, you can skip this.
• Lime Juice: A squeeze of fresh lime cuts through the richness and brightens up the flavors.

Together, these ingredients create a sauce that’s velvety, tangy, sweet, and just spicy enough to keep things exciting.

Tips for Balancing Flavors to Match Your Spice Tolerance

Getting the perfect bang bang sauce is all about balance. If you’re like me, you’ve probably added a bit too much sriracha at least once (and regretted it later). Here are some tips to get it just right:

• Start small with the sriracha and taste as you go. You can always add more heat, but you can’t take it out!
• If it’s too spicy, mellow it out with a little extra mayo or sweet chili sauce.
• For a tangier kick, add more lime juice. Just a teaspoon can make a big difference.
• Want a deeper sweetness? Stir in a touch of honey or even a sprinkle of brown sugar.

I like to keep a tiny spoon nearby while I mix so I can taste and tweak the flavors until they’re spot on.

Substitutions for Common Dietary Needs

The great thing about bang bang sauce is how adaptable it is for different diets and preferences. Here are a few easy swaps:

• Low-Carb/Keto-Friendly: Replace sweet chili sauce with sugar-free chili sauce or a combination of hot sauce and a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol.
• Dairy-Free: Most versions are naturally dairy-free, but double-check your mayo. Opt for vegan mayo if needed.
• Vegan: Use vegan mayo and substitute honey with agave syrup or maple syrup.
• Gluten-Free: Sweet chili sauce is usually gluten-free, but always read the label to be sure.

The beauty of this sauce is that it doesn’t rely on one rigid recipe—you can tweak it to fit your needs without losing the magic.

Why It’s the Real Star of the Dish

Honestly, the bang bang sauce is so good it could be its own sidekick. Drizzle it over veggies, use it as a dipping sauce, or even slather it on a sandwich. Once you’ve mastered the basics, you might find yourself making a batch just to keep in the fridge for all your snacking emergencies.

It’s the ultimate proof that sometimes, a simple combination of pantry staples can create something unforgettable. Give it a try—you’ll see exactly why it’s the heart and soul of Bang Bang Salmon.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making What Molly Made’s Bang Bang Salmon

If you’re ready to make What Molly Made’s Bang Bang Salmon, you’re in for a treat! This dish is as easy to prepare as it is delicious, and I’ll walk you through the entire process step by step. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or someone who still Googles how long to boil an egg (we’ve all been there), this guide will make you feel like a pro in the kitchen.

Step 1: Prepping the Salmon

The foundation of any great salmon dish starts with choosing the right cut. Look for fresh, center-cut fillets with vibrant, pink flesh. Skin-on fillets are great because they help hold the salmon together while cooking, but skinless works too if that’s your preference.

Before you do anything, pat the fillets dry with a paper towel. This step is crucial—it helps the seasoning stick and ensures you get a nice texture when cooking. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and a light sprinkle of garlic powder for extra flavor. Want to take it up a notch? A touch of paprika or smoked paprika adds a subtle kick.

Step 2: Making the Bang Bang Sauce

The magic is in the sauce, and thankfully, it couldn’t be easier to whip up. Here’s the basic recipe:

• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon sriracha (or to taste)
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
• Juice of half a lime

Mix everything together in a small bowl until smooth. Taste and adjust as needed—maybe a bit more sriracha for spice or a touch of honey if you want it sweeter. Once it’s ready, set it aside for later.

Step 3: Cooking the Salmon

Now for the fun part—cooking! You’ve got a few options depending on your kitchen setup and mood:

Oven-Baked Method

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Place the salmon fillets on a lined baking sheet and brush them with olive oil.
• Bake for 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. For perfectly caramelized edges, broil them for the last 2 minutes after brushing on the bang bang sauce.

Air Fryer Method

• Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
• Lightly oil the basket and place the salmon fillets skin-side down.
• Cook for 8-10 minutes, brushing on the sauce halfway through. The air fryer gives you crispy edges and flaky insides—so satisfying!

Stovetop Searing Method

• Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of oil.
• Place the salmon fillets skin-side down and cook for 4-5 minutes, then flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
• Remove from the heat and brush on the sauce while the salmon is still warm.

Step 4: Time and Temperature Guidelines

To make sure your salmon is tender and flaky (not dry or rubbery!), use these key tips:

• Cook salmon until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). A meat thermometer makes this foolproof.
• For visual cues, the salmon should flake easily with a fork and have a slightly opaque center.

Pairing Bang Bang Salmon with Sides and Drinks

Bang Bang Salmon is a bold and flavorful dish, but what really takes it to the next level is pairing it with the perfect sides and drinks. The creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet sauce deserves accompaniments that balance or enhance its flavors. Whether you’re aiming for a casual family dinner or a date-night masterpiece, here’s how to round out your meal.

The Best Side Dishes for Bang Bang Salmon

The key to pairing sides with Bang Bang Salmon is to choose dishes that balance the richness of the sauce without overpowering it. Here are my top picks:

• Jasmine Rice or Coconut Rice: The lightly fragrant, slightly sticky texture of jasmine rice soaks up the sauce beautifully. If you’re feeling adventurous, try coconut rice for a sweet, creamy twist that complements the spiciness.
• Roasted Vegetables: Think asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts. Roasting them at a high temperature brings out their natural sweetness, which pairs perfectly with the salmon’s bold flavors. A drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper is all you need.
• Crisp Salad: A simple green salad with a zesty vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the dish. Toss in cucumbers, radishes, or even some citrus segments to add brightness and crunch.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: If you’re craving comfort food, creamy mashed potatoes work surprisingly well. Just keep the seasoning simple—let the salmon and sauce shine.
• Asian-Inspired Slaw: A crunchy slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a light sesame-ginger dressing adds freshness and a hint of tanginess to your plate.

Drink Pairings to Elevate Your Meal

The right drink can turn a great meal into an unforgettable one. Here are a few ideas to complement Bang Bang Salmon:

Wine Pairings:

• Sauvignon Blanc: Its crisp acidity and citrus notes cut through the sauce’s creaminess.
• Riesling (Off-Dry): A lightly sweet Riesling balances the heat from the sriracha without overpowering the dish.
• Rosé: A dry rosé with hints of red fruit and a crisp finish pairs beautifully with the salmon’s richness.

Mocktails and Cocktails:

• Cucumber Mint Cooler: A refreshing mix of cucumber juice, mint, lime, and sparkling water. It’s light, crisp, and perfect for taming the dish’s heat.
• Moscow Mule: The zing of ginger beer with lime is a fantastic match for the sweet and spicy sauce. Add a slice of candied ginger for flair.
• Pineapple Mojito: Pineapple’s natural sweetness plays well with the spice, and the mint adds a refreshing contrast.
• Iced Green Tea with Lemon: If you’re skipping alcohol, this simple pairing adds subtle earthiness and zest.

Turning Bang Bang Salmon Into a Complete Meal

If you’re hosting a dinner or just want to make your plate feel extra special, it’s all about the little touches:

1. Layer Your Plate: Start with a scoop of rice or salad as the base, then place the salmon fillet on top. Drizzle extra bang bang sauce over everything for a restaurant-worthy presentation.
2. Add a Garnish: Sprinkle sesame seeds, chopped scallions, or fresh cilantro over the salmon for color and flavor. It’s amazing how these small details elevate the dish.
3. Serve a Light Appetizer: Think spring rolls, edamame, or a small miso soup to kick things off. It sets the tone for the meal without overshadowing the main event.
4. Finish with a Dessert: Balance the bold flavors with something light and sweet, like a mango sorbet or coconut panna cotta.

Pro Tips for Perfect Bang Bang Salmon Every Time

Cooking Bang Bang Salmon can be a breeze, but if you want to truly nail it every time, there are a few tricks of the trade to keep in mind. Whether it’s avoiding dry salmon, boosting the flavor, or making leftovers as tasty as day one, these pro tips will help you bring your A-game to the kitchen.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

1. Don’t Overcook the Salmon
   Overcooked salmon is a one-way ticket to dry, rubbery fish—and nobody wants that. The best way to avoid this is by keeping an eye on the internal temperature. Use a meat thermometer and aim for 145°F (63°C) at the thickest part. Remember, salmon continues to cook slightly after you take it off the heat, so pulling it out at 140°F and letting it rest for a few minutes can give you perfectly tender, flaky results.
2. Season Thoroughly
   One of the easiest mistakes to make is under-seasoning the salmon. While the bang bang sauce adds a lot of flavor, you still need to season the fillets themselves. A simple mix of salt, pepper, and garlic powder ensures the fish is flavorful from the inside out. If you like bold flavors, a dash of smoked paprika or chili powder before cooking can add a little extra oomph.
3. Don’t Skimp on Sauce
   The bang bang sauce is the star of the dish, so don’t be shy when slathering it on! Add a generous layer before cooking if you’re baking or air frying, and then brush on more just before serving to make the flavors pop.

Enhancing the Dish with Garnishes

Once your salmon is cooked to perfection, the finishing touches can make all the difference:

• Fresh Herbs: Chopped cilantro or parsley adds a burst of freshness that complements the rich sauce.
• Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle white or black sesame seeds over the top for a subtle nutty flavor and a polished look.
• Scallions or Chives: Thinly sliced scallions or chives bring a mild oniony bite that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
• Lime Wedges: Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra tangy kick that balances the sweetness of the sauce.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: If you like it spicy, a pinch of red pepper flakes on top gives it a fiery edge.

These little touches not only boost the flavor but also make your dish look Instagram-ready!

Storage and Reheating Tips

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Here’s how to store and reheat your Bang Bang Salmon without losing its magic:

1. Storage
   1. Let the salmon cool completely before storing to avoid sogginess.
   1. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and freeze it for up to 2 months.
2. Reheating
   1. In the Oven: Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C). Place the salmon on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. The low temperature helps retain moisture.
   1. In the Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate and cover the salmon with a damp paper towel. Heat on low power in 30-second intervals, checking frequently to prevent overcooking.
   1. In a Skillet: Add a splash of water or broth to a skillet and reheat the salmon over low heat, covered, for 5-7 minutes. This keeps it moist and flavorful.
3. Refreshing the Sauce
   If the sauce has thickened or separated, stir in a teaspoon of water or lime juice to bring it back to life. For frozen leftovers, make a fresh batch of sauce—it’s quick and always worth it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe by What Molly Made

There’s a reason What Molly Made’s Bang Bang Salmon has taken the internet by storm—it’s one of those recipes that checks all the boxes. Whether you’re a kitchen newbie or a seasoned home chef, this dish is an absolute win. From its simplicity to its adaptability for various dietary lifestyles, it’s no wonder this recipe has earned its place in countless weekly meal rotations.

Simple Enough for a Weeknight, Fancy Enough for Guests

One of the best things about this recipe is how simple it is to make. There’s no complicated prep work, no need for special equipment, and the ingredients are probably already in your pantry. In under 30 minutes, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on the table.

And let’s talk about versatility! This dish adapts to your cooking preferences: bake it, air fry it, or sear it on the stovetop—whatever works best for you. Plus, it pairs beautifully with almost any side dish, making it a true multitasker in the kitchen.

A Hit on Social Media

If you’ve spent any time scrolling through Pinterest, Instagram, or TikTok, you’ve likely seen this recipe popping up with rave reviews. Readers are obsessed, sharing photos of their perfectly cooked salmon drizzled in that creamy bang bang sauce.

Here’s what some fans have said:

• “This recipe is now a staple in my house—so easy and unbelievably tasty!”
• “I was nervous to cook salmon for the first time, but Molly’s step-by-step instructions made it foolproof!”
• “Made this for a dinner party, and everyone thought I’d ordered it from a restaurant. Total showstopper!”

The popularity of this dish isn’t just hype—people genuinely love how approachable and flavorful it is. It’s a recipe that feels impressive without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Fits Into Any Dietary Lifestyle

What makes this recipe even more amazing is how adaptable it is for various diets. You can enjoy Bang Bang Salmon no matter your eating plan with just a few tweaks:

• Keto: Swap out the sweet chili sauce for a sugar-free version and use a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol in the bang bang sauce.
• Paleo: Use paleo-approved mayo and a compliant sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
• Gluten-Free: Most versions of this recipe are naturally gluten-free, but double-check the labels on your sweet chili sauce and sriracha to be sure.
• Dairy-Free: The recipe is already dairy-free! Just verify your mayonnaise is compliant, especially if you’re vegan or avoiding dairy for dietary reasons.

This versatility makes it an ideal choice for family dinners or gatherings where everyone has different dietary needs. No matter the preference, everyone gets to enjoy the same delicious dish!

Bang Bang Salmon isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience! With its bold flavors and easy preparation, it’s no wonder the What Molly Made version has taken the internet by storm. Whether you’re cooking for your family, impressing friends, or treating yourself, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So, gather your ingredients, follow the tips, and get ready to make your new favorite salmon dish. Don’t forget to share your culinary masterpiece on social media and tag What Molly Made!