Golden, crispy, and packed with flavor, these Fried Shrimp are the perfect appetizer, party snack, or seafood dinner. Marinated in tangy buttermilk and coated in a seasoned crispy breading, every bite delivers a crunchy exterior with juicy, tender shrimp inside. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce and fresh lemon wedges for a restaurant-quality dish at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Crispy and golden on the outside
Tender and juicy shrimp inside
Easy to prepare with simple ingredients
Perfect for appetizers, snacks, or main dishes
Delicious with cocktail sauce, tartar sauce, or spicy aioli
Ingredients
For the Shrimp
1½ pounds large shrimp (21–25 count), peeled and deveined
1 cup buttermilk
1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Coating
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup cornstarch
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
For Frying
Vegetable oil or peanut oil, for frying
For Serving
Lemon wedges
Tartar sauce, cocktail sauce, or spicy aioli
Fresh parsley, chopped
Equipment Needed
Large mixing bowls
Deep skillet or Dutch oven
Tongs
Wire rack or paper towels
Thermometer (recommended)
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp
In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, hot sauce, salt, and black pepper.
Add the shrimp and toss to coat completely.
Cover and refrigerate for 20–30 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
In another bowl, whisk together:
Flour
Cornstarch
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Paprika
Cayenne pepper (if using)
Salt
Black pepper
Mix until evenly combined.
Step 3: Coat the Shrimp
Remove the shrimp from the buttermilk marinade.
Allow excess marinade to drip off.
Dredge each shrimp in the seasoned flour mixture.
Press lightly to ensure the coating adheres well.
Step 4: Fry the Shrimp
Heat about 2 inches of oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C).
Fry the shrimp in small batches to avoid overcrowding.
Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
Transfer to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate.
Step 5: Serve
Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley.
Serve immediately with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Classic cocktail sauce
Homemade tartar sauce
Garlic aioli
Sweet chili sauce
French fries or coleslaw
Fresh garden salad
Tips for Perfect Fried Shrimp
Pat shrimp dry before marinating if they contain excess moisture.
Cornstarch helps create an extra-crispy coating.
Maintain oil temperature at 350°F (175°C) for even cooking.
Fry in batches to prevent the oil temperature from dropping.
Serve immediately for maximum crunch.
Storage
Refrigeration
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating
Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5–7 minutes until crispy.
Freezing
Freeze cooked shrimp in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Recipe Notes
Medium shrimp may be substituted but will cook more quickly.
Add extra cayenne for a spicier version.
For a Southern-style flavor, add 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning to the coating.
Avoid overcooking, as shrimp become tough very quickly.
Recipe Summary
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Cuisine: American Seafood
Difficulty: Easy
Enjoy these crispy, golden Fried Shrimp fresh from the fryer with plenty of lemon and your favorite dipping sauce for an irresistible seafood treat! 🍤✨
Crispy Fried Shrimp Recipe
