Fried Shrimp

 Ingredients for Classic Fried Shrimp

To make about 4 servings of this golden, crunchy delight, you’ll need:

• 1 lb large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails optional)

• 1 cup buttermilk (or substitute: 1 cup whole milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice)

• 1 tsp hot sauce (optional, adds flavor to the marinade)

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• ½ cup yellow cornmeal

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp paprika

• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Vegetable oil, for deep frying

• Lemon wedges, for serving

Pro Tip: Use raw shrimp rather than pre-cooked for the best texture and flavor after frying.

 Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Fried Shrimp

1. Marinate the Shrimp

Start by placing your cleaned shrimp in a bowl with the buttermilk and hot sauce. Let them soak for at least 15–30 minutes in the refrigerator. This not only infuses flavor but helps tenderize the shrimp for a juicy bite.

2. Prepare the Dry Breading

In a large shallow bowl or dish, mix together:

• Flour

• Cornmeal

• Garlic powder

• Paprika

• Cayenne pepper (if using)

• Salt and pepper

This flour-cornmeal combo delivers a crispy, textured coating that’s iconic in Southern-style seafood.

3. Coat the Shrimp

Take each shrimp from the buttermilk bath, allowing the excess to drip off. Then dredge it into the seasoned flour mix. Press lightly to ensure the coating sticks well.

Place the coated shrimp on a baking sheet or tray while you prepare the oil.

4. Heat the Oil

Use a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot and heat 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). A thermometer is highly recommended to maintain accurate temperature.

Too cold and the shrimp absorb oil. Too hot and they burn before cooking through.

5. Fry the Shrimp

Carefully lower shrimp into the hot oil in batches (don’t overcrowd!). Fry for 2–3 minutes or until they turn golden brown and float to the top.

Use a slotted spoon or spider strainer to remove the shrimp and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

6. Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your fried shrimp hot with:

• Fresh lemon wedges

• Tartar sauce

• Spicy aioli

• Or on a toasted bun with coleslaw for a shrimp po’boy sandwich!

Pair it with crispy fries or hush puppies for the full Southern experience.

 Tips for Making the Best Fried Shrimp

• Don’t skip the soak! Buttermilk helps tenderize the shrimp and makes the coating stick better.

• For extra crunch, double-dip: flour → buttermilk → flour again.

• Use panko breadcrumbs in place of cornmeal for a different texture.

• Spice it up with a Cajun blend or Old Bay seasoning.

• Use a wire rack instead of paper towels for draining if you want them ultra-crispy.

 Flavor Variations to Try

Want to switch things up? Here are a few tasty alternatives:

 Spicy Fried Shrimp

Add more cayenne or red chili flakes to the flour mix, and serve with a sriracha-lime dip.

 Lemon-Pepper Shrimp

Add lemon zest and cracked pepper to the flour blend for a zesty twist.

 Herb-Seasoned Shrimp

Mix dried thyme, oregano, or rosemary into the coating for an herby profile.

 What to Serve with Fried Shrimp

Make it a full meal with these Southern-inspired sides:

• Creamy Bacon Corn Casserole

• Classic coleslaw

• Cornbread

• Mac and cheese

• Sweet potato fries

• Pickled okra or dill pickles

For a lighter option, serve over a crisp green salad with a vinaigrette.

 Storage & Reheating Tips

Storage: Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Reheat: Reheat in a 375°F oven or air fryer for 5–7 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving—it makes the coating soggy.

Freezing Tip: You can freeze breaded but uncooked shrimp for up to 2 months. Fry straight from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to the cooking time.

 Trusted Fried Shrimp Recipes Around the Web

Want more variations and expert techniques? Try these recommended reads:

• AllRecipes.com – Fried Shrimp

• Serious Eats – Shrimp Fry Guide

• Southern Living – Crispy Fried Shrimp

 Make It a Shrimp Night Feast

Hosting guests? Add these to your seafood spread:

• Coconut shrimp with mango salsa

• Shrimp and grits

• Garlic butter shrimp skewers

• Popcorn shrimp with remoulade

• Shrimp tacos with slaw and crema

Check out more mouthwatering ideas at rangermt.com for your next dinner plan.

 Frequently Asked Questions

Can I air fry instead of deep fry?
Yes! Spray the breaded shrimp with oil and cook at 400°F for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway.

What oil is best for frying shrimp?
Use oils with high smoke points like peanut, canola, or vegetable oil.

Should I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, but thaw them completely and pat dry before marinating or frying.

How do I keep shrimp from curling too much?
Make shallow slits on the inner curve of the shrimp or skewer them straight before frying.

Final Thoughts: A Shrimp Lover’s Dream Come True

Whether you’re a seafood aficionado or just looking to spice up dinner with something crunchy and delicious, this fried shrimp recipe hits all the right notes. It’s easy, flavorful, and incredibly versatile.

Want more delicious seafood dishes and comfort food classics? Visit us at rangermt.com for recipes your whole family will love.