Spicy Garlic Butter Fried Calamari – Crispy, Tender & Packed with Flavor

If you’re craving seafood with a fiery kick and a buttery finish, this Spicy Garlic Butter Fried Calamari is the perfect recipe! It’s crispy on the outside, tender inside, and drenched in a rich garlic butter sauce with just the right amount of heat.

Perfect as an appetizer, party snack, or even a bold weeknight dinner, this dish is guaranteed to disappear fast!

What Is Spicy Garlic Butter Fried Calamari?

Calamari refers to squid, typically cut into rings and either grilled or fried. In this version, squid is quickly stir-fried or shallow-fried until golden, then tossed in a garlicky, spicy butter glaze for an addictively flavorful seafood dish that’s crispy, savory, and slightly spicy.

Ingredients

To make 2–4 servings:

1 lb calamari (squid), cleaned and cut into rings

3 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon soy sauce

1 teaspoon chili flakes or chili paste
½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste

1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for extra crispiness)
Green onions or parsley, for garnish
Oil for frying

Instructions

1. Prep the Calamari

Pat the calamari dry using paper towels. Toss with a pinch of salt, pepper, and cornstarch if using (this helps with browning).

2. Fry the Calamari

Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the calamari rings and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly golden. Remove and set aside on paper towels.

3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute). Stir in soy sauce, chili flakes or paste, and paprika.

4. Toss and Finish

Return the calamari to the skillet and toss to coat with the garlic butter sauce. Stir well for 1–2 minutes until evenly glazed.

5. Serve

Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley and serve immediately!

Notes

Don’t overcook the squid! Overcooking will make it rubbery. Cook quickly on high heat for tenderness.
Make it extra spicy by adding fresh sliced chilies.

Use fresh or frozen calamari—if using frozen, thaw and pat dry thoroughly.
Serve with rice, noodles, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce!

What to Serve with Spicy Calamari

Pair your garlic butter calamari with:

Steamed jasmine rice or garlic fried rice
Lemon wedges or lime for brightness

Sautéed greens or stir-fried vegetables
As a taco or wrap filling with shredded cabbage and spicy mayo

Storage & Reheating

Best eaten fresh for crisp texture.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Reheat in a hot skillet or air fryer—avoid the microwave to keep it crispy.

FAQ

Q: Can I use frozen squid?
A: Yes! Just make sure it’s fully thawed and dried before cooking.

Q: Can I deep fry instead of pan fry?
A: Absolutely! Deep frying will make them crispier. Use 350°F oil and fry in batches.

Q: What’s a good dipping sauce?
A: Try spicy mayo, lemon aioli, or sweet chili sauce!

Final Thoughts

This Spicy Garlic Butter Fried Calamari is everything you want in a seafood dish—crispy, savory, buttery, and bold. Whether you’re serving it as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a main dish with rice, this quick and flavorful calamari recipe is sure to impress.