Crispy Southern Fried Shrimp Recipe

If you love shrimp, get ready to meet your new favorite meal: Crispy Southern Fried Shrimp.

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Keyword Fried Shrimp

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 4

Servings servings

Calories 266kcal

Author Dana DeVolk

Preheat your oil in a deep fryer or Dutch oven with oil 3 inches up the sides to 350°F.
peanut oil for frying
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, creole seasoning, paprika, and black pepper.
2 large eggs, 2 tablespoons buttermilk, 1 tablespoon hot sauce, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon creole seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Add the shrimp and coat in the egg mixture, set aside.
2 pounds extra large shrimp
In a medium bowl, stir together the flour, cornmeal, garlic powder, onion powder, creole seasoning, paprika, and pepper.
1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon creole seasoning, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Take a shrimp and let the excess egg mixture drip off. Place it into the cornmeal mixture and coat well. Place it on a plate, and continue with the remaining shrimp.
Once the oil is hot, place the shrimp into the hot oil in batches, do not crowd the fryer. Cook for 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
Place the shrimp on a wire rack sitting over a sheet tray and immediately sprinkle with salt to taste.
kosher to taste
Repeat with the remaining shrimp and serve immediately.

Check the Oil Temperature: Use a candy thermometer or test a small piece of bread. At about 350°F (degrees f), you get a crispy shrimp without it soaking up too much oil.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in a single layer. If you add too many shrimp at once, they’ll lower the temperature of the oil and turn soggy.
Season at Every Step: Season both the shrimp and the flour mixture with your favorite spice blend.
Serve Immediately: The shrimp are best when still hot and crisp.
Pair with a Sauce: Whether it’s pink sauce, a homemade remoulade, or plain ketchup, a dipping sauce can take your shrimp to the next level.