The BEST Fried Shrimp Recipe

Crispy, golden, and packed with flavor, this fried shrimp recipe is one of those dishes that delivers serious satisfaction in every bite. Whether you're serving it up on a busy weeknight or making a seafood platter for a get-together, you’ll love how fast and easy this comes together. This is truly the best fried shrimp recipe, thanks to a secret batter combo of cornmeal and flour that creates the perfect crunchy coating.

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Fried Shrimp Recipe
• Ingredients and Substitutions
• How to Make the BEST Fried Shrimp
• Pro Tips for Perfect Fried Shrimp
• What to Serve with Fried Shrimp
• Storing and Reheating Fried Shrimp
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Final Thoughts
• The BEST Fried Shrimp

Once you master this dish, it’ll be your go-to for shrimp nights. The best part? You can make this at home in less than 30 minutes, and it tastes even better than what you’d order at a restaurant.

this recipe

Let’s roll up our sleeves and get frying.

Why You’ll Love This Fried Shrimp Recipe

Easy and Fast to Make

Frying shrimp at home might sound intimidating, but this recipe makes it surprisingly simple. No deep fryer is needed—just a heavy-bottomed skillet and a few shallow bowls. With easy-to-find ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll be serving crispy shrimp in under half an hour.

Perfectly Crispy Texture

The combination of all-purpose flour and cornmeal gives this shrimp a seriously crispy exterior. The flour helps with that light, golden crust, while the cornmeal adds texture and a satisfying crunch.

Flavorful and Family-Approved

Each bite is seasoned with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne. The flavor is bold without being too spicy, making it kid-friendly and adult-approved.

Adaptable for Dietary Needs

This recipe is easy to adapt. Need gluten-free? Use your favorite 1:1 GF flour. Avoiding dairy? Substitute non-dairy milk for the buttermilk. With a few tweaks, it can fit a variety of dietary lifestyles.

Ingredients and Substitutions

What You’ll Need

Shrimp and Oil

• 24 ounces large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Canola oil or vegetable oil for frying

Egg Wash

• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk (or regular milk)
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Dry Coating Mixture

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons onion powder
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Optional Dipping Sauce

• ¾ cup mayonnaise
• ½ cup sweet chili sauce

This sweet and spicy mayo-based dipping sauce is the perfect complement to crispy fried shrimp, but feel free to use your favorite sauces too.

Ingredient Notes

Shrimp: Large or jumbo raw shrimp are best. Fresh or frozen (thawed) both work well.

Flour: Standard all-purpose flour is ideal. You can also use gluten-free flour blends if needed.

Cornmeal: Use yellow cornmeal for maximum crunch. White cornmeal is slightly finer but still works well.

Buttermilk: Adds richness and helps the breading stick. No buttermilk? You can substitute 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice in 1 cup of milk.

Swaps and Options

• No cornmeal? Use extra flour, but note the coating will be less crunchy.
• Low spice version? Omit or reduce the cayenne pepper.
• Egg allergy? Use a flax egg or egg replacer in the egg wash.

How to Make the BEST Fried Shrimp

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat the oil
   Add about ½ inch of canola oil to a large, heavy-bottomed skillet. Heat over medium until shimmering.
2. Prep the egg wash
   In a shallow dish (like a pie plate), whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, salt, and pepper.
3. Prepare the dry mix
   In another shallow dish, combine the flour, cornmeal, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne.

4. Coat the shrimp
   Dip the shrimp into the egg mixture, coating well. Then dredge in the dry flour-cornmeal mixture. Place coated shrimp on a clean plate and repeat until all are coated.
5. Rest before frying
   Let the shrimp sit for a few minutes. This helps the coating stick and prevents it from falling off during frying.
6. Fry in batches
   Fry shrimp in a single layer without crowding the pan. Cook for about 3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

7. Drain and cool
   Use a slotted spoon to transfer shrimp to a paper towel-lined plate. Continue until all shrimp are fried.
8. Make the sauce
   Combine mayo and sweet chili sauce in a small bowl. Stir well and serve alongside the shrimp.

Pro Tips for Perfect Fried Shrimp

Make Less Mess

Set up your breading station with two pie plates or shallow dishes. Use one hand for the wet mixture and one hand for the dry. This keeps things neat and avoids that thick, goopy mess on your fingers.

Get the Oil Right

Test your oil by dropping in a bit of the flour mixture. If it sizzles instantly, it’s ready. If it browns too fast or starts smoking, reduce the heat slightly.

Resting Is Key

After breading, allow the shrimp to rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This makes the coating adhere better and reduces the risk of it falling off while frying.

What to Serve with Fried Shrimp

Best Side Dishes

• Amish potato salad
• Seasoned potato wedges
• French fries or polenta fries
• Fried pickles or hush puppies
• Instant Pot corn on the cob
• Roasted Brussels sprouts

You can also serve it on a bed of greens for a lighter option or as part of a seafood platter.

Delicious Dipping Sauces

Not into mayo-based sauces? Try one of these:

• Cocktail sauce
• Spicy ketchup
• Tartar sauce
• Remoulade
• Ranch or jalapeño ranch
• Hot sauce
• Honey mustard

How to Plate It

Serve on a platter lined with parchment or wax paper. Garnish with fresh parsley, lemon wedges, or even a sprinkle of smoked paprika for extra color.

Storing and Reheating Fried Shrimp

How to Store Leftovers

Keep leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools completely before storing.

Best Reheating Methods

• Air fryer: Reheat at 375°F for 3 to 4 minutes for maximum crispiness.
• Oven or toaster oven: Bake at 400°F for 5 to 6 minutes.
• Microwave: Works in a pinch but will soften the crust.

Frequently Asked Questions

Recipe Variations and Customizations

Make It Gluten-Free

Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Most cornmeal is naturally gluten-free, but always check the label for cross-contamination if needed.

Make It Dairy-Free

Replace the buttermilk with unsweetened almond milk or oat milk. Add 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to mimic the acidity of buttermilk.

Change Up the Flavors

• Add Cajun seasoning for a spicy Southern-style kick.
• Try lemon pepper for a citrusy twist.
• Add grated Parmesan and Italian seasoning for a Mediterranean flair.

Holiday and Seasonal Ideas

• Serve as a party appetizer on skewers for game day or New Year’s Eve.
• Add to tacos with slaw for a summer dinner (try this Bang Bang Shrimp Taco recipe or the classic Shrimp Tacos recipe).
• Pair with grits for a comforting Southern brunch. You’ll love this Southern Style Shrimp and Grits.

Final Thoughts

This fried shrimp recipe is one of those reliable dishes that turns out perfect every time. The crunch, the seasoning, the dipping sauce—it’s comfort food in the best possible way. Whether you’re cooking for family or just treating yourself, this dish delivers flavor and joy with every bite.

If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Let me know your favorite sides, sauces, or if you gave it your own twist. Don’t forget to save it to your Pinterest boards at pinterest.com/bakewithlina and tag me if you make it.

Cooking with confidence is just a skillet away. Grab those shrimp and let’s get frying.

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