If you’re craving crispy, golden, and delicious fried shrimp, this Southern-style fried shrimp recipe is exactly what you need! Lightly seasoned, coated in a perfectly spiced batter, and deep-fried to crispy perfection, this dish is a Southern classic that pairs wonderfully with dipping sauces, coleslaw, or fries.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
β Crispy & Crunchy β Light, airy coating with a satisfying crunch.
β Quick & Easy β Ready in under 20 minutes!
β Perfectly Seasoned β A blend of Cajun spices gives it that Southern kick.
β Great for Any Occasion β Serve it as an appetizer, main dish, or party snack.
Ingredients
β 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on or off)
β 1 cup buttermilk
β 1 cup all-purpose flour
β Β½ cup cornmeal
β 1 tsp salt
β Β½ tsp black pepper
β Β½ tsp garlic powder
β Β½ tsp onion powder
β Β½ tsp paprika
β Β½ tsp Cajun seasoning (optional for extra heat)
β 1 egg
β 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
How to Make Southern Fried Shrimp
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
1οΈβ£ Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel.
2οΈβ£ In a bowl, mix buttermilk and egg together. Add the shrimp and let it soak for 5-10 minutes (this helps tenderize and flavor the shrimp).
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
1οΈβ£ In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and Cajun seasoning.
Step 3: Dredge the Shrimp
1οΈβ£ Remove the shrimp from the buttermilk mixture and let any excess drip off.
2οΈβ£ Toss the shrimp in the flour mixture until fully coated. Press the coating onto the shrimp to help it stick.
3οΈβ£ Place the coated shrimp on a plate and let them rest for 5 minutes (this helps the breading adhere better).
Step 4: Heat the Oil
1οΈβ£ Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or frying pan to 350Β°F (175Β°C).
2οΈβ£ To check if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of breading in β it should sizzle immediately.
Step 5: Fry the Shrimp
1οΈβ£ Carefully place the shrimp into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding.
2οΈβ£ Fry for 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy.
3οΈβ£ Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Serving Suggestions
β Dipping Sauces: Cocktail sauce, remoulade, tartar sauce, or spicy mayo.
β Side Dishes: Coleslaw, French fries, hush puppies, or cornbread.
β As a Meal: Serve over buttery grits, rice, or inside tacos for a Southern twist.
Tips for the Best Southern Fried Shrimp
π₯ Use Fresh Shrimp β Fresh or frozen shrimp work, but make sure theyβre thawed and patted dry before coating.
π₯ Double Coat for Extra Crispiness β Dip the shrimp in buttermilk, coat in flour, then dip again and coat once more.
π₯ Keep Oil at the Right Temperature β Too hot = burnt shrimp. Too cold = greasy shrimp. Keep it around 350Β°F (175Β°C).
π₯ Don’t Overcrowd the Pan β Fry in small batches for even cooking and crispiness.
π₯ Drain Properly β Use a wire rack instead of paper towels for even crispness.
Storage & Reheating
π Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
π To reheat, use an air fryer or oven at 375Β°F (190Β°C) for 5 minutes for the best texture. Avoid microwaving, as it makes them soggy.
Final Thoughts
This Southern Fried Shrimp recipe is an easy, crowd-pleasing dish that brings the best crispy texture and bold flavor. Whether youβre serving it as a snack, appetizer, or main dish, itβs sure to be a hit!
π₯ Would you try this recipe? Let me know your favorite way to enjoy fried shrimp! π€
