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The Ultimate Crispy Fried Shrimp Recipe (Restaurant Style)

A pile of golden brown, crispy fried shrimp seasoned with spices, sitting on a white plate near a window.

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Make restaurant-quality fried shrimp at home. This easy recipe uses a buttermilk soak and seasoned flour to guarantee a golden, crunchy coating every time.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

  1. Place the peeled and deveined shrimp in a bowl. Pour the buttermilk over the shrimp. Add the salt, pepper, and hot sauce (if using). Stir to coat. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. This soak helps tenderize the shrimp and makes the coating stick better.
  2. In a separate shallow dish, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. This is your seasoned flour mixture.
  3. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature; maintaining this heat is key for crispiness.
  4. Working in small batches, remove the shrimp from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off. Dredge each shrimp thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure the flour adheres completely.
  5. Carefully place the coated shrimp into the hot oil, ensuring you do not overcrowd the pot. Fry for 2 to 3 minutes per side, turning once, until the shrimp are golden brown and cooked through.
  6. Use a slotted spoon or spider to remove the fried shrimp from the oil. Place them on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain excess oil. This prevents sogginess better than paper towels.
  7. Serve the crispy fried shrimp immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

  • For extra crunch, you can use Panko breadcrumbs mixed into the flour coating, or do a double dredge: coat in flour, dip briefly back into the buttermilk, and coat in flour again.
  • Keep the oil temperature consistent. If the oil is too cool, the shrimp will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
  • If you are looking for simple ways to manage your weekly meals without stress, consider looking into meal planning options.

Nutrition

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