(Bonus: Instructions on how to bake in the oven or make in an air fryer are also included.)
Fried Shrimp
This Fried Shrimp recipe is the ultimate appetizer recipe! You won’t believe how delicious these golden, crunchy bites of juicy shrimp are. Just like the restaurants, we’ll soak the shrimp in buttermilk (or in this case, sour cream & milk as many people already have that on hand). This helps ensure that the breading sticks to the shrimp, leaving us with fully coated, crispy fried shrimp. The dipping options are endless, I love to serve it with lemon slices, freshly chopped parsley, and warm marinara. (Similar to how fried calamari is served!) I outline lots of dipping sauce options below, as well as PRO tips- don’t miss those!
How to Make It
See recipe card below this post for ingredient quantities and full instructions. Soak the shrimp in Buttermilk (or sour cream + milk) for 10 minutes. Transfer to breadcrumb mixture and coat thoroughly.
Transfer breaded shrimp to a preheated pot of oil and deep fry for 3-4 minutes. Transfer to wire cooling racks. Serve with dipping sauce. (Sauce suggestions outlined in PRO tips below!)
Fried Shrimp Temperature
An oil temperature between 350°-375° is perfect for deep fried shrimp. Vegetable, Canola, and Peanut oil are great for deep frying. PRO TIP: The shrimp should rise to the top of the oil immediately if the oil is at the right temperature. If it’s not hot enough, the shrimp will sink (and likely stick) to the bottom and the breading will fall off.
Baking or Air Frying
Note: Nothing beats the crispy texture and golden color of deep fried shrimp! But if you prefer an alterative method, here’s how:
Baking: Bake in a 400° oven for 8-10 minutes. Air Frying: Arrange in a single layer and spray lightly with canola or vegetable oil. Air Fry at 390° for 5 minutes. Lightly shake the basket, spray again, and air fry up to 5 more minutes, or until golden.
Storage
Fried Shrimp is best if served hot and fresh! If you have leftovers, let them cool completely and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat: Bake in a 300° oven for 8-10 minutes.
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Oil Thermometer Deep Fryer Dutch Oven can be used on the stove instead of a deep fryer. This is what I use. Spider Strainer Cooling Racks- These fit perfectly over this Baking Sheet.
