First things first — thank you so much for being here with me today! There’s something timeless and universally loved about perfectly crispy fried shrimp — golden, crunchy, juicy, and so easy to dip and devour. If you’re craving restaurant-style fried shrimp at home, this quick and simple recipe is going to be your new go-to.
Whether you’re serving it up for game day, a backyard fish fry, or just a cozy weeknight dinner, this classic never disappoints.
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Why You’ll Love These Fried Shrimps
This recipe brings the crispy crunch you crave — but without complicated steps or messy batters. The flour-cornmeal dredge gives each shrimp a light, shatteringly crisp coating that’s so satisfying. Plus, the touch of hot sauce and cayenne adds just the right kick. Here’s why it’s a keeper:
- Fast & easy: Ready in minutes!
- Crunchy coating: Light, flavorful, not greasy.
- Versatile: Serve as an appetizer, main dish, or toss them on a salad.
- Crowd-pleaser: There won’t be leftovers — promise!
What Do They Taste Like?
Golden on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside — the flour and cornmeal give a crispy, slightly nutty bite that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the shrimp. A hit of hot sauce and cayenne adds a subtle, tangy warmth that keeps you reaching for just one more.
Benefits of This Recipe
✔️ No fancy ingredients — pantry staples only.
✔️ Quick cook time — 2 minutes per batch!
✔️ Works with fresh or frozen shrimp.
✔️ Perfect for dipping, stacking on tacos, or piling onto a seafood platter.
Ingredients You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Amount & Notes |
|---|---|
| Canola oil | For deep frying; ~2 inches deep in skillet |
| Eggs | 2 large, beaten |
| Whole milk | 1 cup |
| Chile hot sauce | 2 tablespoons (like Cholula) |
| Raw shrimp | 2 lbs; large, peeled & deveined |
| All-purpose flour | ¾ cup |
| Cornmeal | ⅔ cup |
| Kosher salt | 1½ teaspoons |
| Black pepper | 1 teaspoon |
| Cayenne pepper | ½ teaspoon |
| Lemon wedges | For serving |
| Cocktail sauce/rémoulade | Optional, for dipping |
Tools You’ll Need
- Deep skillet or heavy pan
- Slotted spoon or spider strainer
- Thermometer (helps keep oil at 370°F)
- Paper towels & tray
Flavor Boosts & Swaps
✨ Add garlic powder or smoked paprika to the dredge for extra depth.
✨ Double the hot sauce for spicier shrimp!
✨ Try panko: Swap half the cornmeal for panko breadcrumbs for a crunchier bite.
How to Make Crispy Fried Shrimp
1️⃣ Heat the Oil
Pour canola oil into a deep skillet to about 2 inches deep. Heat over medium-high until it reaches 370°F (188°C).
2️⃣ Set Up Dredging Station
In a shallow bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and hot sauce. Add shrimp and toss to coat.
In another bowl, mix flour, cornmeal, salt, black pepper, and cayenne.
3️⃣ Dredge & Fry
Lift 6–8 shrimp from the egg mixture, let excess drip off, then dredge in the flour mix. Shake off extra, then carefully place in hot oil. Fry for about 2 minutes until golden and crisp.
4️⃣ Drain & Repeat
Use a slotted spoon to transfer fried shrimp to a paper towel-lined tray. Repeat with remaining shrimp — let the oil return to temperature between batches.
5️⃣ Serve & Enjoy
Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce!
What to Serve With Fried Shrimp
- Classic cocktail sauce or zesty rémoulade
- Crispy fries or hush puppies
- Simple coleslaw or a fresh side salad
- Pile onto a po’ boy sandwich with lettuce and pickles!
Tips for Perfect Fried Shrimp
✔️ Pat shrimp dry before dipping for best crunch.
✔️ Don’t overcrowd the skillet — work in batches.
✔️ Keep oil temp steady — use a thermometer if you can.
✔️ Serve hot and fresh for max crispiness!
Storage & Reheating
- Best Fresh: Fried shrimp are best right away.
- Reheat: If needed, reheat leftovers in a 400°F oven for 5–7 minutes to crisp them back up — skip the microwave.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I air fry these?
Yes! Lightly mist dredged shrimp with oil and air fry at 400°F for about 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway.
What size shrimp works best?
Large or extra-large — they stay juicy and are easier to fry.
Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free flour and cornmeal.
Wrapping It Up
These Crispy Fried Shrimps are proof that sometimes simple really is best. Perfectly golden, perfectly crunchy, and absolutely irresistible — whether you serve them as a snack, a main dish, or a party platter, they’ll disappear fast.
If you loved this, try my Triple Crust Peach Cobbler or Southern Squash Casserole next — more classics worth sharing!
👉 Did you fry up this recipe? Tag me and share your crispy creations — I’d love to see them!
Nutritional Info (Approx. per 6 shrimp)
Calories: 240 | Protein: 23g | Carbs: 12g | Fat: 11g
Thanks for crunching into something delicious with me — happy frying! 🍤✨