If you’re craving something that perfectly balances crunchy texture with succulent seafood flavor, this Crispy Fried Shrimp – Restaurant Quality Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine shrimp coated in a golden, flavorful crust that crackles delightfully with every bite, while the shrimp inside remain juicy and tender. This recipe is not only surprisingly simple but will have your family and friends thinking you’ve spent hours perfecting a gourmet dish. Let me walk you through creating this classic favorite that turns everyday shrimp into a star-worthy meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe proves that simplicity can deliver incredible results. Each component plays a key role, from the creamy egg wash that helps the coating stick perfectly, to the seasoned bread crumbs that bring that irresistible crunch and flavor.
- Shrimp (1 lb, peeled and cleaned): Use medium-sized shrimp for the perfect bite size that cooks quickly without drying out.
- Buttermilk or regular milk (1/4 cup): Adds richness to the egg wash, helping the bread crumbs adhere better and keep the shrimp juicy.
- Eggs (2 large, beaten): Bind the coating and add moisture for an even, crispy exterior.
- Seasoned bread crumbs (2 cups): Infuse flavor and create that crispy texture that makes this recipe restaurant quality.
- Corn oil or vegetable oil: Essential for frying at just the right temperature to achieve a crunchy, golden crust without greasiness.
How to Make Crispy Fried Shrimp – Restaurant Quality Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Start by peeling and cleaning your shrimp thoroughly under cold running water. Removing the shell and veins ensures every bite is pleasant and ready to soak up that crispy coating you’re about to create. If you want to elevate your presentation and texture, butterfly the shrimp by slicing through the center without cutting all the way through, creating a wider surface area for the breading.
Step 2: Make the Egg Wash
Whisk together the eggs and buttermilk (or regular milk) in a bowl. This mixture works wonders by providing moisture and helping the bread crumbs stick to your shrimp like a charm, guaranteeing that perfectly even coating that every great fried shrimp needs.
Step 3: Coat the Shrimp
Dip your peeled shrimp fully into the egg wash, letting any excess drip off gently. Then, roll each piece in the seasoned bread crumbs, pressing lightly so the crumbs adhere well but the coating remains light enough to stay crispy after frying.
Step 4: Fry the Shrimp
Heat your corn or vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to a steady 350-375°F. This temperature is crucial — hot enough to cook quickly and seal the coating but not so hot it burns. Fry your shrimp in batches for 2 to 4 minutes until they turn a gorgeous golden brown, flipping if needed for even crispiness.
Step 5: Drain and Rest
Once fried, transfer the shrimp onto a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil. This step keeps your crispy fried shrimp light, not greasy, and ready for serving.
How to Serve Crispy Fried Shrimp – Restaurant Quality Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can truly elevate your dish. A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a bright, herbaceous note, while a few lemon wedges provide that zesty kick that cuts through the richness beautifully. Don’t forget a sprinkle of flaky sea salt just before serving for that extra pop of flavor.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with classic sides like crispy fries, coleslaw, or even a crisp green salad. For something a little more indulgent, try pairing with creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh corn salad. Each side complements the crispy fried shrimp perfectly, making your meal feel complete and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your crispy fried shrimp on a platter lined with lettuce or cabbage leaves for a fantastic visual contrast. Skewer them for an easy appetizer or nestle them beside a tangy dipping sauce in mini bowls, encouraging guests to indulge and dip their way through the dish. Presentation can turn this simple restaurant-quality recipe into a stunning centerpiece for any gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, place your crispy fried shrimp in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to two days. To keep them from getting soggy, line the container with paper towels to absorb any moisture.
Freezing
You can freeze uncooked coated shrimp on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to one month. This way, you can enjoy your Crispy Fried Shrimp – Restaurant Quality Recipe anytime with minimal effort.
Reheating
To revive the crispiness, reheat shrimp in the oven at 375°F for about 8-10 minutes instead of microwaving. This keeps the breading crunchy and the interior juicy just like freshly fried.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them completely, pat dry to remove excess moisture, and then proceed with the recipe. Dry shrimp help maintain the crispy coating better during frying.
Is it necessary to butterfly the shrimp?
Butterflying is optional but recommended if you want a larger surface area for the breading and a beautiful presentation. It’s a little extra effort that pays off in texture and style.
What oil is best for frying shrimp?
Corn oil and vegetable oil are great choices because they have a high smoke point and neutral flavor, allowing your breadcrumbs and shrimp to shine without burning or imparting unwanted taste.
How do I make sure the shrimp stay crispy?
Draining the shrimp on a wire rack after frying is key to keeping them crispy instead of soggy. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan when frying to maintain proper oil temperature.
Can I bake the shrimp instead of frying?
You can, but the classic Crispy Fried Shrimp – Restaurant Quality Recipe truly shines with frying. Baking can give a lighter version but may lack the deep crunch and richness of fried shrimp.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like biting into perfectly golden, crisply coated shrimp that remind you of your favorite restaurant dish made right at home. This Crispy Fried Shrimp – Restaurant Quality Recipe is easy enough for a weeknight treat, yet impressive enough to serve guests. I promise, once you try it, it’ll become your go-to recipe whenever you want fun, flavor, and that unbeatable crunch. So grab your shrimp and let’s get frying—you’re going to love every single bite!
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Crispy Fried Shrimp – Restaurant Quality Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Crispy Fried Shrimp recipe delivers restaurant-quality shrimp with a crunchy, golden exterior and tender, juicy inside. Perfect as an appetizer or main dish, the shrimp are coated in seasoned bread crumbs and fried to perfection, then served with your favorite dipping sauce.
Ingredients
Shrimp
- 1 lb shrimp (16–20 count, peeled and cleaned)
Coating
- 1/4 cup buttermilk or regular milk (for egg wash)
- 2 large eggs (beaten for egg wash)
- 2 cups seasoned bread crumbs
Frying Oil
- Corn oil or vegetable oil (for frying, enough to fill fryer or deep pan)
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: Peel and clean the shrimp, rinsing them thoroughly under cold running water to remove any residue.
- Butterfly the Shrimp (Optional): If desired, slice through the flesh of each shrimp to open them up slightly without cutting all the way through, for better frying and presentation.
- Make the Egg Wash: In a bowl, whisk together the two beaten eggs and 1/4 cup of buttermilk or regular milk to create a smooth egg wash for coating.
- Coat the Shrimp with Egg Wash: Dip each shrimp into the egg wash, making sure it is fully covered, then allow any excess to drip off.
- Coat with Bread Crumbs: Roll the egg-washed shrimp in the seasoned bread crumbs, pressing lightly to ensure an even, thorough coating.
- Heat the Oil: Preheat corn or vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large deep pan to 350-375°F (175-190°C) for optimal frying temperature.
- Fry the Shrimp: Carefully place shrimp into the hot oil in batches. Fry each batch for 2-4 minutes or until they turn a golden brown color, ensuring they cook evenly without overcrowding.
- Drain the Shrimp: Remove the fried shrimp using a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil and maintain crispiness.
- Serve: Serve the crispy fried shrimp hot with cocktail sauce, tartar sauce, or your favorite dipping sauce for a delightful appetizer or main course.
Notes
- Butterflying the shrimp is optional but helps the coating stick better and allows quicker, more even cooking.
- Season the bread crumbs with salt, pepper, and any preferred spices like paprika or garlic powder for added flavor.
- Maintain the oil temperature between 350-375°F to achieve crispy shrimp without greasy texture.
- Fry the shrimp in small batches to avoid overcrowding, which can lower the oil temperature.
- Drain shrimp on a wire rack rather than paper towels to prevent sogginess.
