Description
Southern Fried Shrimp is a delicious, crispy seafood dish made with tender shrimp, seasoned perfectly and coated in a crispy batter for a savory, golden-brown finish. This easy, flavorful recipe is perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a special dinner or a casual family meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (with or without tails on)
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornmeal
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1–2 cups vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Marinate the shrimp: Combine shrimp, buttermilk, and hot sauce in a medium bowl. Stir to coat and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare the breading: In a shallow dish, combine the flour, cornmeal, Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the shrimp: Remove shrimp from the buttermilk, letting any excess liquid drip off. Coat each shrimp in the breading mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks.
- Heat the oil: In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Test the oil with a small amount of breading—if it bubbles and fries immediately, it’s ready.
- Fry the shrimp: Fry shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan.
- Drain and serve: Remove shrimp from oil and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve hot.
Notes
- Use fresh shrimp: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh shrimp. If using frozen, be sure to thaw and pat them dry before frying.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, so be careful not to overcook them. Once golden brown, remove them from the oil.
- Maintain the right oil temperature: Keep the oil at 350°F (175°C) for even frying. If the oil is too hot, the breading may burn.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Fry
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 460mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
Keywords: Southern Fried Shrimp, Crispy Shrimp, Cajun Shrimp, Fried Seafood, Shrimp Recipe