Fried shrimp are little bites of happiness! They’re crispy on the outside with a juicy shrimp inside. Perfect as a snack or a meal!
I love serving them with a side of tangy sauce for dipping. You can’t go wrong with this tasty treat, plus they cook up quick—easy peasy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are best for frying due to their size. Fresh or frozen works; just ensure they’re thawed and patted dry. If you’re not a fan of shrimp, you might substitute with chicken tenders or firm tofu for a different flavor.
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs give extra crunch, which I love. Regular breadcrumbs can be used in a pinch, but try adding some crushed cornflakes or even crushed crackers for a crunchy twist!
Buttermilk: It makes the shrimp tender and adds flavor. If you don’t have buttermilk, a mix of milk and a splash of vinegar or lemon juice can work as a substitute. Just let it sit for about 5 minutes before using.
Spices: The seasoning mix of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne adds a kick! You can adjust the cayenne for your spice preference or try seasoning blends like Cajun or Creole for a different flavor vibe.
Why Is the Breading Station So Important?
A well-prepared breading station ensures your shrimp are perfectly coated and crispy. Organizing your setup makes the process smoother. Here’s how to do it:
- First, combine flour with seasonings in one bowl—this is your dry mix.
- In the second bowl, whisk eggs and buttermilk together for your wet mix. This thickens the coating.
- In the third bowl, place your breadcrumbs for the final crunchy layer.
Layering the coating helps lock in flavor and achieves that crispy bite. Remember to shake off the excess at each step to avoid clumping!
How to Make Fried Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
For The Breading:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred for extra crunch)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For Serving:
- Lemon wedges
- Marinara or cocktail sauce, for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes for frying. In total, you should set aside about 35 minutes to make these delicious fried shrimp. It’s a quick and tasty dish that’s perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
First, make sure your shrimp are peeled and deveined. Pat them dry using paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps the breading stick better!
2. Set Up Your Breading Station:
In a bowl, combine the flour with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. In a second bowl, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk until well combined. Finally, place the breadcrumbs in a third bowl. Now you’re ready to bread the shrimp!
3. Dredging the Shrimp:
Take each shrimp and first dip it into the flour mixture, ensuring it is well coated. Shake off any excess flour, so it’s not too thick. Next, dip the floured shrimp in the egg mixture, letting any extra drip off. Lastly, roll the shrimp in the breadcrumbs until fully coated. Place the breaded shrimp on a plate and repeat this process with all the shrimp.
4. Frying the Shrimp:
In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You’ll want the oil to be around 350°F (175°C) before adding the shrimp. Carefully add the breaded shrimp in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and crispy.
5. Draining and Serving:
Once the shrimp are fried, use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil. Place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve your crispy fried shrimp warm with lemon wedges and your favorite marinara or cocktail sauce for dipping. Enjoy every crunchy bite!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw the shrimp before using them. The best way to do this is to place them in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re short on time, you can quick-thaw them by sealing them in a plastic bag and submerging them in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Pat them dry before proceeding with the recipe!
What Can I Substitute for Buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can easily make a substitute by combining 1/2 cup of milk (whole or 2%) with 1/2 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly, and then use it in the recipe as directed!
How to Store Leftover Fried Shrimp?
Store any leftover fried shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy. Instead, use an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Enjoy them just like the first time!
