Southern Fried Shrimp

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