If you love the thrilling combination of sweet, spicy, and crispy textures, then this Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Recipe is about to become your new obsession. Imagine golden, crunchy shrimp perfectly coated and fried to crispy perfection, then drizzled with a luscious glaze made from honey and hot sauce that dances on your taste buds. This dish is a fantastic balance of flavors and textures, making it irresistible for any occasion when you crave something bold and comforting that packs just the right punch.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the best results starts with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that bring both flavor and texture to life. Each component plays its part—whether it’s the smoky paprika adding depth, the crunchy panko breadcrumbs creating that coveted crisp, or the tangy edge of apple cider vinegar in the glaze.
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star of the dish, fresh or thawed shrimp give a sweet seafood base.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle, savory aroma without overpowering the shrimp.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Brings a smoky warmth and beautiful color to the seasoning.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential for highlighting natural flavors and seasoning the shrimp perfectly.
- ½ cup all-purpose flour: Creates the first coating layer, helping the batter stick.
- 1 cup buttermilk: Provides tang and moisture, tenderizing the shrimp while helping the crumbs adhere.
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs: Delivers that unbeatable crunch that keeps every bite exciting.
- Vegetable oil, for frying: The frying medium that crisps the shrimp up beautifully without overpowering flavors.
- â…“ cup honey: The sweet foundation of the glaze that contrasts the heat in the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce: Adds fiery heat—feel free to adjust the heat level to your preference.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Enriches the hot honey glaze to make it silky and decadent.
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For an extra kick if you love heat.
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar: Balances the glaze with a subtle tang that keeps it lively.
How to Make Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Season the Shrimp
Begin by patting your shrimp dry—this step is key for achieving maximum crispiness. Then, toss them with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. This dry spice rub infuses the shrimp with deep flavor that sets the stage for every delicious bite.
Step 2: Prepare Your Dredging Stations
You’ll set up three bowls: one with flour, one with buttermilk, and one with panko breadcrumbs. This classic three-step dredging ensures each shrimp gets a perfect, crispy coating. The flour helps catch the buttermilk, the buttermilk moistens, and the panko provides the ultimate crunch.
Step 3: Coat the Shrimp
Take each seasoned shrimp and first coat it in flour, then dip completely into the buttermilk, and finally press into the panko breadcrumbs, making sure each one is fully covered. Lay them out on a tray so they’re ready for frying and won’t stick together.
Step 4: Fry to Golden Perfection
Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or heavy pot to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Fry your shrimp in small batches for about 2 to 3 minutes each until they turn a gorgeous golden brown and are irresistibly crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels to keep them crunchy.
Step 5: Make the Hot Honey Glaze
In a small saucepan, combine honey, hot sauce, butter, red pepper flakes (optional), and apple cider vinegar. Warm over medium heat while stirring until everything melts together into a smooth, glossy sauce. The blend of sweet honey and spicy hot sauce is pure magic.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
Lastly, drizzle the hot honey glaze over the fried shrimp or serve it on the side as a dipping sauce for maximum control over each bite. The glaze clings beautifully to each crunchy piece, delivering a perfect balance of sweet heat that keeps you coming back for more.
How to Serve Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes like finely chopped green onions or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds add both color and texture contrast to your platter. A squeeze of lime or lemon zest brightens the dish even further and brings out the vibrant flavors in the hot honey glaze.
Side Dishes
This shrimp pairs wonderfully with simple sides that don’t steal the limelight. Think creamy coleslaw, fluffy white rice, or a crisp arugula salad dressed lightly with citrus vinaigrette. These sides complement the rich, spicy shrimp beautifully without overwhelming the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Recipe as a sandwich with a soft brioche bun and a smear of cooling aioli. Alternatively, turn it into a festive appetizer by skewering the shrimp and serving with extra glaze on the side for dipping. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser either way!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftover fried shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keeping the shrimp separated from the glaze helps maintain its crispiness. Store the glaze separately and drizzle fresh before serving.
Freezing
If you want to freeze cooked shrimp, lay them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe container. This prevents sticking. They will keep well for up to two months and can be reheated quickly when ready.
Reheating
To regain their crispy texture, reheat shrimp in a preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius) on a wire rack for about 8 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it will make the coating soggy. Add fresh hot honey glaze after reheating to revive all the delicious flavors.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before seasoning and dredging. Removing excess moisture is crucial to get that crispy crust.
How spicy is the hot honey glaze?
The heat level is quite adjustable depending on how much hot sauce and red pepper flakes you add. Start mild and add more to taste if you prefer a bolder kick.
What’s the best oil for frying shrimp?
Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are great choices because they have a high smoke point and neutral flavor, which are perfect for frying seafood.
Can I make the hot honey glaze ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the glaze a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Warm it gently before drizzling over the shrimp or serving as a dipping sauce.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The traditional recipe uses all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs, which contain gluten. However, you can swap both for gluten-free alternatives to make this dish gluten-free friendly.
Final Thoughts
This Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a celebration in your mouth every single time. It’s crispy, sweet, spicy, and truly comforting. I encourage you to try it soon—whether for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive appetizer for friends, this recipe delivers smiles and satisfied cravings with every bite. You’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
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Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Hot Honey Fried Shrimp recipe features crispy, golden fried shrimp coated in a crunchy panko breadcrumb crust, tossed in a sweet and spicy hot honey glaze. Perfect as an appetizer or main dish, it combines the heat of hot sauce and red pepper flakes with the sweetness of honey and buttery richness, making a delicious crowd-pleaser in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Coating
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Hot Honey Glaze
- â…“ cup honey
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Season Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel and season them evenly with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to infuse flavor.
- Prepare Dredging Stations: Set up three bowls—one with all-purpose flour, one with buttermilk, and one with panko breadcrumbs for coating the shrimp.
- Coat the Shrimp: Dip each shrimp first into the flour, then into the buttermilk, and finally coat thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs. Place the coated shrimp on a tray ready for frying.
- Heat Oil: Pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet or pot and heat it to 350°F (175°C), suitable for deep frying to achieve a crispy crust.
- Fry Shrimp: Fry the shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy. Remove them and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Make Hot Honey Glaze: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine honey, hot sauce, butter, red pepper flakes, and apple cider vinegar. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth, melted, and slightly thickened. Remove from heat.
- Serve: Drizzle the hot honey glaze over the fried shrimp or serve it alongside as a dipping sauce to enjoy the perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of hot sauce and red pepper flakes according to your preferred heat level.
- Make sure the oil temperature is consistent to avoid greasy or undercooked shrimp.
- Use fresh shrimp for the best taste and texture.
- Serve immediately for maximum crispiness.
- If desired, garnish with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added freshness.
