Southern Fried Shrimp

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Southern Fried Shrimp Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Shrimp:

  • 2 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off, your choice)
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 tbsp hot sauce (optional, for a spicy kick)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

For the Breading:

  • 1 1/2 cups cornmeal (fine or medium grind)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

For Frying:

  • Vegetable oil or peanut oil (for deep frying)

Optional for Serving:

  • Lemon wedges
  • Homemade tartar sauce or remoulade
  • Hot sauce

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Shrimp:

In a large bowl, combine shrimp, buttermilk, hot sauce, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne. Toss well and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours) to tenderize and flavor the shrimp.

2. Prepare the Breading:

In another large bowl or shallow dish, mix together the cornmeal, flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

3. Bread the Shrimp:

Remove shrimp from the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Dredge each shrimp in the cornmeal-flour mixture, pressing gently so the coating sticks well. Lay them on a tray or baking sheet in a single layer.

Pro tip: Let the breaded shrimp rest for 10 minutes before frying to help the coating adhere better and stay crispy!

4. Heat the Oil:

Pour oil into a deep skillet or Dutch oven to a depth of about 2–3 inches. Heat over medium-high heat to 350°F (175°C).

5. Fry the Shrimp:

Carefully drop in a few shrimp at a time (don’t overcrowd). Fry for 2–3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Flip if needed. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate.

Repeat with the rest of the shrimp.

6. Serve Hot:

Serve your crispy Southern Fried Shrimp immediately with lemon wedges and dipping sauces.

Bonus: Easy Homemade Remoulade Sauce

Mix together:

  • 1/2 cup mayo
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp ketchup
  • 1 tsp hot sauce
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp sweet relish or chopped pickles
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Let chill 15–20 minutes before serving.

Tips & Tricks:

  • Buttermilk = magic: It tenderizes the shrimp and helps the coating stick.
  • Cornmeal gives crunch: That authentic Southern texture comes from cornmeal—don’t skip it!
  • Want extra crispy shrimp? Double dip: dip back into buttermilk and re-dredge before frying.
  • Use fresh oil: Old oil can give your shrimp a greasy taste.

Serving Suggestions:

Pair your Southern Fried Shrimp with:

  • Creamy coleslaw
  • Hush puppies
  • Mac & cheese
  • Fried green tomatoes
  • Cornbread
  • Sweet tea or a cold beer

Why You’ll Love It:

  • Super crispy outside, juicy inside
  • Easy to make in batches
  • Big Southern flavor in every bite
  • Family-friendly, crowd-pleaser

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