15 Fried Shrimp Recipes for Crispy and Flavorful Delights

Welcome to our delicious corner of the internet, where we’re diving into the crispy, golden world of fried shrimp recipes!

Whether you’re a seafood lover looking for a new favorite dish or a home cook wanting to impress your family and friends, our collection of fried shrimp recipes has something for everyone.

From classic Southern-style fried shrimp to innovative twists that will tantalize your taste buds, we’ve got you covered.

Get ready to explore mouthwatering flavors, easy-to-follow instructions, and tips to achieve perfectly crispy shrimp every time. Let’s get frying!

1. Classic Southern Fried Shrimp

This iconic dish features shrimp bathed in a buttermilk soak for extra tenderness, then coated in a seasoned flour mixture and fried to golden perfection. It’s a timeless favorite that delivers a satisfying crunch and juicy shrimp in every bite.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, soak the shrimp in buttermilk for about 10 minutes.
2. In another bowl, mix cornmeal, flour, salt, pepper, and paprika.
3. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
4. Dredge the shrimp in the cornmeal mixture, ensuring they are fully coated.
5. Fry the shrimp in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Serve With: Coleslaw, Hush puppies

Drink With: Sweet iced tea, Lemonade

2. Panko-Crusted Fried Shrimp

For an irresistibly crispy exterior, panko breadcrumbs are the way to go. This lighter and airier coating creates a delightful contrast to the succulent shrimp within, making them perfect for appetizers or a light main course.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup flour
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Pat shrimp dry with paper towels.
2. Set up a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
4. Dredge each shrimp in flour, dip in eggs, then coat with panko breadcrumbs.
5. Fry shrimp in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Serve With: Lemon wedges, Tartar sauce

Drink With: Cold beer, White wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc)

3. Coconut Shrimp

Tropical vibes come alive with this sweet and crunchy treat. Shrimp are dipped in a batter infused with coconut milk and then coated in shredded coconut before frying. The result is a beautiful golden brown exterior with a hint of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with dipping sauces.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup shredded coconut
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Pat shrimp dry with paper towels.
2. Set up a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and a mixture of shredded coconut and panko breadcrumbs.
3. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
4. Dredge each shrimp in flour, dip in eggs, then coat with the coconut-panko mixture.
5. Fry shrimp in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Serve With: Sweet chili dipping sauce, Mango salsa

Drink With: Piña colada, Tropical fruit punch

4. Bang Bang Shrimp

This fiery delight features shrimp tossed in a spicy, creamy sauce after frying. The contrasting textures and the sweet heat of the sauce create an addictive flavor explosion that’s sure to leave you wanting more.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup flour
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
• 2 tbsp sriracha
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Pat shrimp dry with paper towels.
2. Set up a breading station with flour, buttermilk, and cornstarch mixed with salt and pepper.
3. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
4. Dredge each shrimp in flour, dip in buttermilk, then coat with the cornstarch mixture.
5. Fry shrimp in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Remove and drain on paper towels.
7. In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Toss fried shrimp in the sauce.

Serve With: Lettuce wraps, Cucumber salad

Drink With: Cold beer, Sparkling water with lime

5. Honey Garlic Shrimp

Sweet and savory flavors collide in this irresistible recipe. Shrimp are fried until golden, then glazed in a sticky honey garlic sauce that’s both finger-licking good and perfect for dipping.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tbsp water

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Pour the honey garlic sauce over the shrimp and cook for another 2 minutes.
5. Mix cornstarch with water and add to the skillet, stirring until the sauce thickens.

Serve With: Steamed rice, Stir-fried vegetables

Drink With: Green tea, Chardonnay

6. Cajun Fried Shrimp

Spice things up with a Cajun twist! This recipe uses a seasoned flour mixture infused with paprika, cayenne pepper, and other Cajun spices, resulting in a shrimp with a bold, flavorful coating that will tantalize your taste buds.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup flour
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, soak the shrimp in buttermilk for about 10 minutes.
2. In another bowl, mix flour, cornmeal, Cajun seasoning, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
4. Dredge the shrimp in the flour mixture, ensuring they are fully coated.
5. Fry the shrimp in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Serve With: Remoulade sauce, Corn on the cob

Drink With: Iced tea, Pale ale

7. Popcorn Shrimp

These bite-sized treats are perfect for snacking or parties. Small shrimp are tossed in a light batter and fried until golden and crispy, creating a delightful pop of flavor in every bite.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb small shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup flour
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 2 eggs, beaten
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Pat shrimp dry with paper towels.
2. In a bowl, mix flour, cornmeal, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
3. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
4. Dip each shrimp in beaten eggs, then coat with the flour mixture.
5. Fry shrimp in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Serve With: Cocktail sauce, French fries

Drink With: Lemonade, Light beer

8. Tempura Shrimp

For a taste of Japan, try tempura shrimp. Shrimp are dipped in a light and airy tempura batter before frying, resulting in a delicate and crispy coating that complements the natural sweetness of the shrimp.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cold water
• 1 egg
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix cold water and egg, then add flour and baking powder to create a thin batter.
2. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
3. Dip each shrimp into the batter, letting excess drip off.
4. Fry shrimp in batches until golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Serve With: Tempura dipping sauce, Steamed rice

Drink With: Green tea, Sake

9. Salt and Pepper Shrimp

Simplicity reigns supreme in this classic recipe. Shrimp are seasoned with just salt and pepper before frying, allowing their natural flavor to shine through. The result is a clean and satisfying dish that pairs well with various dipping sauces.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp white pepper
• 1 red chili, finely chopped (optional)
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Pat shrimp dry with paper towels.
2. In a bowl, mix cornstarch, salt, black pepper, and white pepper.
3. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
4. Dredge shrimp in the cornstarch mixture.
5. Fry shrimp in batches until golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Remove and drain on paper towels.
7. Optionally, toss fried shrimp with chopped red chili for added heat.

Serve With: Steamed broccoli, Jasmine rice

Drink With: Cold beer, White wine (such as Riesling)

10. Buffalo Shrimp

This recipe takes inspiration from the beloved buffalo wings. Shrimp are fried and then tossed in a tangy and spicy buffalo sauce, creating a perfect appetizer or game-day treat.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup flour
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup buffalo sauce
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Pat shrimp dry with paper towels.
2. Set up a breading station with flour, buttermilk, and cornstarch mixed with salt and pepper.
3. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
4. Dredge each shrimp in flour, dip in buttermilk, then coat with the cornstarch mixture.
5. Fry shrimp in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Remove and drain on paper towels.
7. Toss fried shrimp in buffalo sauce.

Serve With: Celery sticks, Blue cheese dressing

Drink With: Cold beer, Sparkling water

11. Garlic Parmesan Shrimp

Garlic Parmesan Shrimp is a rich and flavorful dish where succulent shrimp are coated in a savory blend of garlic and parmesan cheese. This dish can be an elegant appetizer or a delicious main course.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley
• 1/2 lemon, juiced

Instructions:

1. Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Sprinkle parmesan cheese over the shrimp and stir until melted and well-coated.
5. Add red pepper flakes if desired and squeeze lemon juice over the shrimp.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Serve With: Garlic bread, Caesar salad

Drink With: Chardonnay, Sparkling water with lemon

12. Sweet Chili Shrimp

Sweet Chili Shrimp combines the perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors. The shrimp are quickly cooked and then coated in a luscious sweet chili sauce, making this dish a standout appetizer or a flavorful main course.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp chopped green onions (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Pour sweet chili sauce and soy sauce over the shrimp, stirring to coat evenly.
5. Cook for another 2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Serve With: Steamed rice, Stir-fried vegetables

Drink With: Green tea, Riesling

13. Lemon Pepper Shrimp

A bright and zesty twist on classic fried shrimp. Shrimp are seasoned with a blend of lemon pepper before frying, resulting in a refreshing and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a light summer meal.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 1 tsp cracked black pepper
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Squeeze lemon juice over the shrimp and sprinkle with cracked black pepper.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Serve With: Quinoa, Roasted vegetables

Drink With: Sparkling water, Sauvignon Blanc

14. Beer-Battered Fried Shrimp

Beer-Battered Fried Shrimp are a pub favorite, featuring shrimp dipped in a light and crispy beer batter. The beer adds a subtle flavor and extra crispiness to the shrimp, making them a perfect appetizer or main course.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup beer (lager or ale)
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Gradually whisk in the beer until a smooth batter forms.
3. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
4. Dip each shrimp into the beer batter, letting excess drip off.
5. Fry shrimp in batches until golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Serve With: Tartar sauce, French fries

Drink With: Cold beer, Lemonade

15. Shrimp Po’ Boy

This iconic Louisiana sandwich features fried shrimp piled high on a toasted French bread roll and dressed with remoulade sauce, lettuce, and tomatoes. It’s a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup flour
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 4 baguettes or hoagie rolls
• Lettuce, tomato, and remoulade sauce for topping
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix flour, cornmeal, Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
2. Dip shrimp in buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture.
3. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
4. Fry shrimp until golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Remove and drain on paper towels.
6. Slice baguettes or hoagie rolls and fill with fried shrimp, lettuce, tomato, and remoulade sauce.

Serve With: Potato chips, Pickles

Drink With: Iced tea, Beer

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