Crispy Fried Shrimp Recipe

Name: Crispy Fried Shrimp Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Oil for frying

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Enjoy the delightful crunch of perfectly fried shrimp, seasoned to perfection.

Created by

Brianna Tate

Last updated on 2025-12-28T17:49:08.213Z

This Crispy Fried Shrimp Recipe is a favorite for seafood lovers. The shrimp are coated in a light batter and fried to golden perfection, making it a dish that everyone will adore.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Light and crispy texture that contrasts beautifully with tender shrimp
Versatile dish that pairs well with various sauces and sides
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings

      

The Perfect Crunch

Achieving that ideal crispy texture is the hallmark of a great fried shrimp dish. The secret lies in the breading process, where the combination of flour, egg, and breadcrumbs creates an irresistible crunch. When fried at the right temperature, the coating turns golden brown while sealing in the moisture of the shrimp, resulting in a tender and juicy interior. Mastering this technique will elevate your cooking and impress your guests.

To ensure that your shrimp remain crispy even after frying, serve them immediately while they are hot. If you need to prepare them ahead of time, keep them warm in a low oven on a baking sheet. This method prevents them from becoming soggy while maintaining their delightful crunch.

Serving Suggestions

Crispy fried shrimp pairs beautifully with a variety of sauces and sides. For a classic touch, serve them with a tangy cocktail sauce or a spicy remoulade. If you're feeling adventurous, try a zesty mango salsa or a creamy garlic aioli for a modern twist. These flavor combinations will tantalize your taste buds and make your meal more enjoyable.

As for sides, consider serving your fried shrimp with a fresh salad, coleslaw, or crispy fries. You can also create a seafood platter with fried calamari and fish for a delightful sharing experience. This versatility not only enhances the meal but also allows you to cater to different tastes.

Tips for Success

To achieve the best results, ensure your shrimp are fresh and properly prepared. Choose large shrimp for the best texture and flavor, and don't skip the deveining step, as this can affect the overall taste. Additionally, consider marinating the shrimp in a bit of lemon juice or your favorite seasoning for added depth of flavor before breading.

Monitoring the oil temperature is crucial for perfect frying. If the oil is too hot, the breading will burn before the shrimp are cooked through. Conversely, if the oil is too cool, the shrimp will absorb excess oil, leading to a greasy result. A deep-fry thermometer can be an invaluable tool to help you maintain the right temperature throughout the frying process.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup breadcrumbs
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Oil for frying

Make sure to prepare everything before you start frying for the best results!

Steps to Prepare

Prepare the Shrimp

Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.

Set Up the Breading Station

In one bowl, place the flour. In a second bowl, beat the eggs. In a third bowl, place the breadcrumbs.

Bread the Shrimp

Dredge each shrimp in flour, dip into the egg, and then coat with breadcrumbs. Set aside on a plate.

Heat the Oil

In a large skillet, heat about an inch of oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).

Fry the Shrimp

Carefully place the breaded shrimp in the hot oil, frying in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Drain and Serve

Remove the shrimp from the oil and drain on paper towels. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Enjoy your crispy fried shrimp with a side of lemon wedges and dipping sauce!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe? Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning and breading. This prevents excess moisture from affecting the breading process.

What type of oil is best for frying? Oils with high smoke points, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil, are ideal for frying shrimp. These oils can handle the high temperatures required without burning.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftover fried shrimp, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. However, for the best texture, it's recommended to consume them fresh. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain some of their crispiness.

Avoid microwaving leftover fried shrimp, as this will make them soggy. Instead, reheating in an oven or air fryer will help restore their delightful crunch, making them enjoyable even the next day.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before breading.

→ What kind of oil is best for frying?

Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are excellent choices for frying shrimp.

→ Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, but the texture will be different.

→ How do I know when the shrimp are done?

The shrimp should be golden brown and opaque. They cook very quickly, so keep an eye on them!