Southern Fried Shrimp

Southern Fried Shrimp is a crispy deep-fried seafood recipe made with large shrimp coated in a seasoned cornmeal and flour mixture. This easy shrimp recipe delivers a crunchy golden crust with bold Southern spices, perfect for seafood dinners, party appetizers, and family meals. Popular for quick fried shrimp, Southern cooking, and homemade seafood dishes, it pairs well with fries, coleslaw, rice, or dipping sauces like cocktail sauce and remoulade. A great choice for easy dinner recipes, fried seafood ideas, and classic Southern comfort food.

Ingredients

For frying

• Peanut oil (enough for deep frying)

Egg mixture

• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons buttermilk
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon Creole seasoning
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 pounds extra-large shrimp (26–30 count), peeled with tails on

Cornmeal coating

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup yellow cornmeal
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Creole seasoning
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Kosher salt, to taste

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Instructions

1. Heat peanut oil in a deep fryer or large Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C), filling oil about 3 inches deep. Prepare a wire rack over a baking sheet.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, buttermilk, hot sauce (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, Creole seasoning, smoked paprika, and black pepper.
3. Add the shrimp to the egg mixture and toss to coat evenly. Let them sit briefly to absorb the flavor.
4. In another bowl, mix flour, cornmeal, and all seasoning ingredients until well combined.
5. Remove each shrimp from the egg mixture, letting excess drip off, then coat thoroughly in the cornmeal mixture. Place on a plate and repeat with remaining shrimp.
6. Fry shrimp in batches at 350°F for 3–4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Do not overcrowd the pan.
7. Transfer fried shrimp to the wire rack and sprinkle lightly with kosher salt while hot.
8. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Southern fried shrimp are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with bold seasoning. The cornmeal coating adds a crunchy texture, making them perfect for seafood lovers who enjoy classic Southern flavors.

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Tips

• Maintain oil temperature at 350°F for even cooking and crispiness.
• Avoid overcrowding the fryer to keep shrimp crispy, not soggy.
• Pat shrimp dry before coating if they are too wet.
• Season immediately after frying for better flavor adhesion.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Use cayenne pepper for extra heat.
• Substitute buttermilk with milk + lemon juice if needed.
• Replace peanut oil with vegetable or canola oil.
• Add Old Bay seasoning for a more coastal flavor.

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FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, but thaw completely and pat dry before breading.

Can I bake instead of fry?
Yes, but the texture will be less crispy. Bake at 425°F until golden and cooked through.

How do I know shrimp are done?
They turn pink, opaque, and form a “C” shape when fully cooked.

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Serving

Serve hot with lemon wedges, cocktail sauce, tartar sauce, or spicy remoulade. They pair well with fries, coleslaw, or rice dishes.

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Suggestions

For a full Southern-style meal, serve alongside cornbread, mac and cheese, or hush puppies. They also work well in shrimp po’ boy sandwiches or seafood platters.