Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with this sensational recipe for Crispy Pan-Fried Buffalo Shrimp. In the culinary world, buffalo sauce reigns supreme for its irresistible blend of tangy heat and savory depth, and these shrimp embody that popularity perfectly. Imagine plump, succulent shrimp, each piece meticulously coated in a seasoned breading, pan-fried to golden, crunchy perfection, and then generously tossed in a vibrant, homemade buffalo sauce. This isn’t just a dish; it’s an experience – bursting with flavor, offering a satisfying crunch, and delivering a kick of spice that’s both exhilarating and addictive. Best of all, this incredible meal comes together in under 30 minutes, requiring no special equipment beyond a simple pan and a few common ingredients. Whether you’re pulling fresh shrimp from the market or thawing a bag from your freezer, everything else you need for this fried buffalo shrimp recipe is likely already in your pantry.
What sets these buffalo shrimp apart is the thoughtful layering of intense flavors. The journey to culinary bliss begins with a robust Cajun seasoning blend, expertly incorporated into the flour and cornstarch dredge. This initial coating ensures a savory foundation and an unparalleled crispiness that stands up beautifully to the sauce. Following the golden pan-fry, the shrimp are enrobed in a fiery, yet balanced, buffalo sauce crafted from your favorite hot sauce, rich butter, and a hint of cayenne pepper for an added punch. The interplay of the seasoned crust, tender shrimp, and spicy-tangy sauce creates a truly dynamic and unforgettable bite. Serve these magnificent fried buffalo shrimp with a cooling dip, such as classic blue cheese or ranch dressing, alongside crisp celery sticks. They are guaranteed to be a show-stopping appetizer or a deeply satisfying main course that will have everyone asking for more.
For those who adore the versatility and deliciousness of shrimp, I encourage you to explore more of my culinary creations. Expand your seafood repertoire with my tantalizing Kung Pao Shrimp Recipe, recreate the popular Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp at home, or spice up your Taco Tuesday with these Easy Dynamite Shrimp Tacos. Each recipe offers a unique and delightful way to enjoy shrimp!
Why You’ll Crave This Crispy Fried Buffalo Shrimp Recipe
This isn’t just another shrimp recipe; it’s a culinary revelation designed to become an instant favorite. Here’s why this crispy fried buffalo shrimp will earn a permanent spot in your recipe collection:
- Uncomplicated & Quick: Say goodbye to complex, time-consuming recipes. This buffalo shrimp dish is incredibly straightforward, involving just three core steps: dredging the shrimp, pan-frying them to crispy perfection, and then coating them in our signature spicy buffalo sauce. From start to finish, you’re looking at under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings when you need a delicious meal in a flash.
- Incredibly Versatile for Any Meal: One of the standout features of these buffalo shrimp is their remarkable adaptability. While they are a phenomenal appetizer, perfect for game days, parties, or casual snacking, their utility extends much further. Transform them into a satisfying main dish by pairing them with rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables. Add a flavorful punch to your salads by using them as a protein topping, or tuck them into warm tortillas for an unforgettable spicy shrimp taco experience. This recipe truly fits seamlessly into any meal plan.
- Perfectly Calibrated Heat: If you appreciate food with a noticeable, yet balanced, spicy kick, this recipe hits all the right notes. The heat isn’t one-dimensional; it’s a harmonious blend derived from multiple sources: the earthy, bold flavor of Cajun seasoning in the breading, the classic tang and warmth of hot sauce, and an optional touch of fiery cayenne pepper. This layered approach ensures a deep, lingering heat that excites the palate without overwhelming the delicate sweetness of the shrimp, allowing you to savor every mouthful. The best part? You can easily adjust the spice level to suit your personal preference, making it a crowd-pleaser for everyone.
- Guaranteed Crispy Texture: The combination of all-purpose flour and cornstarch in the dredge is a secret weapon for achieving an irresistibly crispy and light coating. Each shrimp boasts a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with its tender interior.
- Fresh or Frozen Friendly: This recipe is incredibly accommodating, working equally well with either fresh or properly thawed frozen shrimp. This flexibility means you can prepare this delicious dish whenever the craving strikes, regardless of what’s available.
Buffalo Shrimp Ingredients: Your Essential Guide
The secret to truly outstanding buffalo shrimp lies in the quality and synergy of its ingredients. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you’ll need and the vital role each component plays in achieving culinary perfection.
For Frying the Shrimp: The Foundation of Flavor and Texture
- Shrimp: Select large or jumbo raw shrimp that have been peeled and deveined. Crucially, aim for shrimp with the tails ON. This thoughtful detail not only makes them easier to pick up and enjoy (especially when served as an appetizer) but also adds a touch of gourmet presentation. Both fresh and frozen shrimp are excellent choices, but if opting for frozen, ensure they are completely thawed and thoroughly patted dry before you begin cooking. Removing excess moisture is paramount for a crispy coating.
- Dredge (All-Purpose Flour & Cornstarch): This powerful duo is your key to an exceptionally crispy crust. All-purpose flour provides the primary structure for the breading, while cornstarch works its magic by adding an extra layer of lightness and ensuring that coveted shatteringly crisp texture. Together, they create a perfect exterior that beautifully complements the tender shrimp.
- Seasoning Blend (Cajun Seasoning, Onion Powder, Garlic Powder, Salt, Ground Black Pepper): This robust blend is responsible for infusing the shrimp with a deep, savory flavor before they even touch the buffalo sauce. Cajun seasoning brings a complex, zesty, and often spicy undertone. Onion powder and garlic powder contribute essential aromatic depth, while salt and freshly ground black pepper are fundamental for enhancing and balancing all these exquisite flavors. Don’t underestimate the power of a well-seasoned dredge!
- Vegetable Oil: Essential for achieving that perfect pan-fried crispiness. A neutral-flavored oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, grapeseed oil, or peanut oil, is ideal. You’ll need enough to cover about an inch of the bottom of your pan, allowing the shrimp to fry evenly and develop that beautiful golden-brown color.
For Making the Irresistible Buffalo Sauce: The Signature Kick
- Hot Sauce: This is the undeniable star and heart of your buffalo sauce. While you can use any brand you love, a classic choice like Frank’s Red Hot Sauce is highly recommended for its perfect balance of vinegar tang, moderate heat, and distinctive flavor profile that defines traditional buffalo sauce. Experiment with different brands to find your personal favorite!
- Butter (Salted or Unsalted): Butter is much more than just a flavor enhancer here; it’s crucial for creating a smooth, rich, and velvety sauce that beautifully emulsifies and adheres to the crispy shrimp. It skillfully mellows the hot sauce’s acidity, lending a luxurious mouthfeel and ensuring the sauce clings perfectly to every curve and crevice of the shrimp. Use either salted or unsalted butter, adjusting any additional salt in the recipe accordingly.
- Additional Seasoning (Garlic Powder & Cayenne Pepper): Garlic powder deepens the savory notes of the sauce, harmonizing wonderfully with the hot sauce’s tang. Cayenne pepper is an optional but highly recommended addition if you desire an extra layer of fiery heat and a more intense spice profile. Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne to perfectly match your preferred level of spiciness.
- Chopped Parsley: Freshly chopped parsley serves as the perfect garnish. Its vibrant green color offers a beautiful visual contrast, while its fresh, herbaceous notes provide a delightful counterpoint, brightening the rich and spicy flavors of the buffalo shrimp.
How to Make Perfect Pan-Fried Buffalo Shrimp: A Detailed Guide
Creating these delightful crispy buffalo shrimp is an incredibly satisfying and straightforward process. Follow these step-by-step instructions to ensure your shrimp are perfectly cooked, wonderfully crispy, and bursting with incredible flavor.
- Step 1: Prepare Your Shrimp with Precision. Begin by laying your raw shrimp out on a clean kitchen towel or several layers of paper towels. Thoroughly pat them dry, pressing gently to absorb as much surface moisture as possible. This critical step is the secret to a truly crispy coating, as excess moisture generates steam, preventing the breading from becoming golden and crunchy. Once dried, transfer the shrimp to a clean bowl and set them aside.
- Step 2: Craft the Flavorful Seasoned Coating. In a separate large, shallow bowl (wide enough for easy dredging), combine the all-purpose flour and cornstarch. Now, whisk in the Cajun seasonings, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and ground black pepper. Mix these dry ingredients meticulously with a whisk or fork until all the spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour mixture. This blend will become the savory, crispy crust that envelops your shrimp.
- Step 3: Evenly Coat the Shrimp. Add the thoroughly dried shrimp into the seasoned flour mixture. Using your hands or tongs, gently toss the shrimp until each piece is fully and evenly coated. Once coated, pick up each individual shrimp and give it a gentle shake to remove any excess flour. You want a thin, uniform layer of coating, not a thick, clumpy one, as too much flour can lead to a gummy texture. Place the coated shrimp on a clean plate or baking sheet, ensuring they are in a single layer without too much overlap.
- Step 4: Pan-Fry to Golden Perfection. Heat approximately 1 inch of vegetable oil (or your chosen frying oil) in a heavy-bottomed pan or large skillet over medium-high heat. The ideal oil temperature for frying shrimp is around 350-375°F (175-190°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, test the oil by dropping a tiny pinch of the flour mixture into it; it should sizzle immediately and float to the surface. Carefully place the coated shrimp into the hot oil in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding will drastically lower the oil’s temperature, resulting in soggy, greasy shrimp. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are beautifully golden brown, wonderfully crispy, and appear opaque throughout. Using a slotted spoon or tongs, carefully remove the cooked shrimp and transfer them to a wire rack placed over paper towels to drain any excess oil. This step helps maintain their crispiness.
- Step 5: Prepare the Signature Buffalo Sauce. While your shrimp are frying in batches, you can simultaneously prepare the star of the show: the buffalo sauce. In a small saucepan, combine your chosen hot sauce, the butter, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (if you’re adding extra heat). Heat this mixture over medium heat, stirring consistently until the butter has completely melted and the sauce begins to gently simmer. Allow it to simmer for 4-5 minutes. This simmering time is crucial, as it allows the flavors to fully meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly, achieving that perfect consistency for coating the shrimp.
- Step 6: Toss and Coat with Zest. Once all your shrimp are fried and drained, immediately transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Pour the freshly prepared, warm buffalo sauce directly over the hot, crispy shrimp. Using tongs or a large spoon, gently but thoroughly toss the shrimp until every single piece is beautifully and evenly coated with the rich, spicy sauce. Work swiftly to ensure the sauce adheres perfectly and the shrimp retain their warmth and crisp texture.
- Step 7: Garnish and Serve Immediately. Transfer the sauced buffalo shrimp to your chosen serving platter or individual plates. Garnish generously with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley. The vibrant green not only adds a beautiful pop of color but also a fresh herbaceous note that complements the rich, spicy flavors. Serve your buffalo shrimp immediately with classic accompaniments such as cool ranch or creamy blue cheese dressing on the side for dipping, and crisp celery or carrot sticks to provide a refreshing crunch. The contrast of the cool dip and crunchy vegetables makes for a truly complete and satisfying experience.
Pro Tips for Making the Best Spicy Fried Shrimp Every Time
Elevate your buffalo shrimp from great to absolutely extraordinary with these essential tips and tricks, ensuring perfect results on every attempt:
- Ensure Shrimp Are Fully Thawed (If Frozen): If you’re using frozen shrimp, it’s imperative to thaw them completely before cooking. The best method is to transfer them to the refrigerator overnight. Alternatively, for a quicker thaw, place them in a colander under cold running water for about 10-15 minutes. After thawing, always pat them bone-dry with paper towels to eliminate any residual moisture. Wet shrimp will lead to a soggy coating and may cause the oil to splatter vigorously.
- Keep Tails On for Easier Eating and Presentation: While optional, leaving the tails on the shrimp provides a convenient handle for dipping and enjoying, especially when serving them as an appetizer. It also adds a more professional and appealing visual element to the finished dish.
- The Golden Rule: Pat Shrimp Dry! This cannot be overemphasized. Excess moisture on the shrimp’s surface is the arch-nemesis of crispiness. It prevents the flour mixture from adhering properly and creates steam during frying, resulting in a limp, rather than crispy, crust. Devote time to thoroughly patting each shrimp dry before dredging.
- Tailor the Spice Level to Your Liking: One of the joys of homemade cooking is customization. You have complete control over the heat! Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning in your dredge and the cayenne pepper in your buffalo sauce to match your personal preference. For a milder version, reduce or omit the cayenne and choose a less potent hot sauce. For an extra fiery kick, be generous with both!
- Homemade vs. Store-Bought Buffalo Sauce: While preparing your own buffalo sauce (as detailed in this recipe) offers superior freshness and flavor, there’s no shame in saving time with a good quality store-bought buffalo sauce. Just ensure it’s a brand you know and love.
- Shake Off Excess Dredge: After coating the shrimp in the flour mixture, gently shake off any excess before placing them in the hot oil. A thin, even coating is key to achieving that desirable light and crispy texture; too much breading can become pasty or gummy.
- Do Not Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook very rapidly, often requiring just 2-3 minutes per side, depending on their size. Overcooked shrimp become tough, rubbery, and lose their delicate, sweet flavor. Cook them just until they curl slightly into a ‘C’ shape and turn opaque throughout. Remove them from the oil immediately when they reach this point.
- Fry in Small Batches: Resist the urge to overcrowd your pan. Frying too many shrimp at once will significantly drop the oil’s temperature, leading to greasy, soggy shrimp instead of beautifully crispy ones. Work in small batches, allowing the oil to maintain its optimal frying temperature between additions.
- Drain on a Wire Rack: After frying, use a slotted spoon or tongs to transfer the cooked shrimp to a wire rack placed over paper towels. This setup allows air to circulate around the shrimp, preventing them from becoming steamed and soggy on the bottom as any excess oil drains away.
- Serve with Classic Cooling Dips: The vibrant heat of buffalo shrimp is perfectly complemented by cool, creamy dips. Ranch dressing and blue cheese dressing are traditional favorites that offer a delightful contrast in flavor and texture. Don’t forget to include crisp celery and carrot sticks for that authentic buffalo experience and a refreshing crunch!
Frequently Asked Questions About Crispy Buffalo Shrimp
Absolutely! While pan-frying yields the crispiest results, these shrimp are versatile enough for other cooking methods. For a baked version, arrange the coated shrimp in a single layer on a lightly oiled baking sheet. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 15 minutes, ensuring you flip them halfway through cooking until they are golden and opaque. If you prefer air frying, place the shrimp in a single layer in your air fryer basket (do not overcrowd). Cook at 390°F (200°C) for about 6-8 minutes, flipping them once halfway, until they are crispy and fully cooked. Keep in mind that the texture might vary slightly from pan-frying, but they will still be incredibly delicious!
This recipe is designed to deliver a noticeable and satisfying level of heat, thanks to the inclusion of Cajun seasoning in the dredge, classic hot sauce, and an additional kick from cayenne pepper in the sauce. This combination creates a rich, layered spice profile. However, you have complete control over the spiciness to match your personal preference. For a milder buffalo shrimp, you can easily omit the Cajun seasoning from the dredge and reduce or even entirely leave out the cayenne pepper from the sauce, relying solely on your preferred hot sauce for a gentler warmth. Always taste as you go and adjust to your liking!
While buffalo shrimp are undeniably at their peak when enjoyed immediately after cooking, you can certainly store any leftovers. Once cooled, transfer the shrimp to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. To reheat them while aiming to restore as much crispiness as possible, avoid using the microwave, as it will likely make them soggy. Instead, reheat them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until warmed through and revitalized, or use an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 4-6 minutes, shaking the basket halfway, until they are hot and have regained some of their desired crisp texture.
Generally, we do not recommend freezing these shrimp *after* they have been pan-fried and coated in buffalo sauce. The crispy breading tends to lose its texture and can become quite soggy once thawed and reheated, even with the best methods. For optimal results and the best texture, it is always best to enjoy them fresh. If you wish to do some meal prep, you could bread the shrimp and freeze them uncooked in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. Then, fry them directly from frozen (adding a minute or two to the cooking time) just before you plan to serve them, and then toss with fresh sauce.
Buffalo shrimp are incredibly versatile and pair wonderfully with a wide array of sides! For a classic, comforting pairing, serve them alongside crispy Air Fryer French Fries or sweet potato fries. To balance the richness and heat, fresh, cooling salads are an excellent choice; consider a vibrant Watermelon Cucumber Feta Salad or a light and nutritious Spinach Chickpea Salad Recipe. To complete the authentic buffalo experience, ensure you have plenty of crisp celery and carrot sticks on hand, along with a generous serving of creamy ranch or pungent blue cheese dressing for dipping. Other fantastic options include fluffy white rice to soak up extra sauce, a simple corn on the cob, or a refreshing coleslaw.
Explore More Spicy Buffalo Recipes to Ignite Your Palate
If you’ve found yourself captivated by the tantalizing blend of heat and tang in this buffalo shrimp, then you’re undoubtedly ready to explore the exciting world of other buffalo-inspired dishes! The beloved flavor profile of buffalo sauce is incredibly versatile, lending itself perfectly to a wide range of proteins and vegetables. Expand your culinary horizons and discover new favorites with these fantastic spicy buffalo recipes, perfect for any meal or occasion:
- Crispy Buffalo Chicken Wrap: A fantastic grab-and-go meal that’s bursting with the classic buffalo flavor, ideal for a quick lunch or light dinner.
- Baked Buffalo Chicken Tenders: Enjoy all the zesty goodness of buffalo chicken in a healthier, baked format, without compromising on taste or tenderness.
- Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers: A hearty and comforting meal, these stuffed peppers offer a delightful way to enjoy buffalo chicken as a substantial dinner.
- Healthy Buffalo Chicken Salad: A light, refreshing, yet satisfying salad that brings all the bold, zesty flavors of buffalo chicken to your greens.
- Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese: The ultimate comfort food gets an exciting spicy twist, creating a dish that’s both creamy and fiery.
- Buffalo Cauliflower Wings: A brilliant vegetarian alternative that perfectly captures the tangy and spicy essence of traditional buffalo wings, a must-try for plant-based enthusiasts.
I truly hope that you enjoy every single recipe I share with you, and this delicious Fried Buffalo Shrimp recipe is certainly no exception. I pour my heart into creating dishes that are both easy to follow and incredibly flavorful, and I believe this one perfectly encapsulates that philosophy. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give it a try, savor every crispy, spicy bite, and then share your wonderful cooking experience with your friends and family! Your ratings and comments below are invaluable to me and help others discover and fall in love with these culinary creations too.
If this recipe finds a special place in your kitchen and becomes a new favorite, please consider taking a moment to leave a star rating and a comment to let me know how it turned out! Also, for all my latest social posts, exciting new recipes, and a daily dose of cooking inspiration, be sure to stay connected and follow me at Cookin’ With Mima on FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | PINTEREST. Happy cooking!
Easy Buffalo Shrimp
Ingredients
To fry shrimp
- 20 jumbo raw shrimp, peeled, deveined, and tails ON
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasonings
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying
To make sauce
- 1 cup hot sauce
- 4 tablespoons butter
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Chopped parsley, to garnish
Instructions
- Thoroughly pat the shrimp dry with a kitchen towel or paper towels and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, Cajun seasonings, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Add the dried shrimp to the flour mixture, tossing to coat each piece evenly. Shake off any excess flour and place the coated shrimp on a plate.
- Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat (350-375°F / 175-190°C). Fry the shrimp in batches until crispy and golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove and drain on a wire rack.
- While the shrimp fry, prepare the sauce: combine hot sauce, butter, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper in a saucepan. Simmer for 4-5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Pour the prepared buffalo sauce over the fried shrimp in a large mixing bowl. Toss gently until all the shrimp are evenly coated.
- Garnish the buffalo shrimp with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately with ranch or blue cheese dressing and celery sticks on the side.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen shrimp. If using frozen shrimp, thaw completely before use.
- Leaving tails on makes for easier handling and presentation.
- Always pat shrimp dry before dredging to ensure a crispy coating.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning and cayenne pepper to control the spiciness to your taste.
- For convenience, a good quality store-bought buffalo sauce can be used.
- Shake off any excess flour mixture before pan frying for the best texture.
- Do not overcook shrimp; they are done when opaque and slightly curled to avoid toughness.
- Serve with creamy ranch or blue cheese dressing for a classic pairing.
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 42g |
Protein: 18g |
Fat: 13g |
Saturated Fat: 7g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g |
Monounsaturated Fat: 3g |
Trans Fat: 0.5g |
Cholesterol: 156mg |
Sodium: 2448mg |
Potassium: 296mg |
Fiber: 2g |
Sugar: 1g |
Vitamin A: 1594IU |
Vitamin C: 45mg |
Calcium: 74mg |
Iron: 2mg
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