The Ultimate Crispy Buffalo Shrimp Recipe: Your Guide to Game Day Perfection
Get ready to elevate your appetizer game with these incredibly delicious crispy buffalo shrimp! Perfectly fried until golden brown, then generously tossed in a vibrant, zesty buffalo sauce, these shrimp are an absolute crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, looking for a quick and flavorful lunch, or adding a kick to your dinner spread, these buffalo shrimp are guaranteed to be a hit. Serve them with a side of creamy blue cheese dressing for the quintessential buffalo experience, or get creative with your favorite dips and sides.
This recipe isn’t just about taste; it’s about creating moments. For me, these buffalo shrimp bring back cherished childhood memories of summer days spent down the Jersey shore with my family. The salty air, the boardwalk, and a plate of crispy fried shrimp – it was pure bliss. I never imagined I’d be able to recreate that magic in my own kitchen, but with this recipe, you can easily bring those nostalgic flavors home. They are simple to make, yet incredibly satisfying, proving that some of the best culinary experiences are born from classic, well-loved combinations.
Beyond being a fantastic appetizer, these versatile buffalo shrimp can transform into a satisfying meal. Imagine them piled high on a fresh, crisp salad for a vibrant lunch, or served alongside a comforting side like creamy mashed potatoes for a hearty dinner. Their bold flavor and satisfying crunch make them an excellent addition to almost any plate.
Why You’ll Love This Crispy Buffalo Shrimp Recipe
There are countless reasons to fall in love with these buffalo shrimp. First and foremost, their incredible flavor profile offers the perfect balance of heat from the buffalo sauce and a subtle sweetness from the shrimp, all wrapped in a wonderfully crispy coating. They’re a fantastic alternative to traditional buffalo wings, offering a lighter, seafood option without sacrificing any of that iconic taste. Plus, they cook up incredibly fast, making them ideal for last-minute gatherings or when you’re craving something delicious without a long wait.
- Irresistibly Crispy: Our unique dredging method ensures a perfectly golden and crunchy exterior every time.
- Packed with Flavor: From the seasoned flour to the homemade buffalo sauce, every bite is a burst of savory, spicy goodness.
- Quick & Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep and 10 minutes of cook time, these shrimp are ready in a flash.
- Versatile: Enjoy them as an appetizer, a topping for salads, or as part of a main course.
- Game Day Essential: The ultimate snack for watching sports or any casual get-together.
How to Make the Best Buffalo Shrimp: Step-by-Step Guide
Creating these perfectly crispy and flavorful buffalo shrimp is simpler than you might think. Follow these detailed steps to ensure a delicious outcome every time.
Preparing the Shrimp and Marinade
The secret to tender, juicy fried shrimp begins with a quick marinade. This step infuses flavor and helps keep the shrimp moist during frying.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the whole milk, a pinch of salt, a dash of black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon of paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of granulated garlic, and 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano. The milk not only adds a subtle richness but also helps the flour adhere better to the shrimp, leading to a crispier coating.
- Marinate the Shrimp: Ensure your shrimp are raw, peeled, and deveined for the best results. Pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels before adding them to the milk mixture. This removes excess moisture, which is crucial for achieving crispiness. Let the shrimp soak in this flavorful bath for about 10 minutes. This short marination time is enough to impart flavor and tenderize them slightly without over-saturating.
Dredging and Frying for Perfect Crispiness
The dredging process is key to getting that irresistible crunch. Don’t rush this step!
- Prepare the Dry Mixture: While the shrimp are marinating, prepare your dry dredging station. In a separate shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour with the remaining spices: 1/2 teaspoon of paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of granulated garlic, and 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano, along with salt and pepper to taste. Mix these dry ingredients well to ensure even seasoning.
- Heat the Frying Oil: In a deep skillet or a Dutch oven, pour enough vegetable oil to submerge the shrimp partially. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches a temperature of 375°F (190°C). Using a kitchen thermometer is highly recommended for accuracy. Maintaining the correct oil temperature is vital for crispy, non-greasy shrimp.
- Coat the Shrimp: Once marinated, discard the milk mixture. Transfer the shrimp directly into the seasoned flour. Make sure to coat each piece of shrimp thoroughly, pressing gently to ensure the flour adheres well. A good coating is essential for maximum crispiness. Gently shake off any excess flour before frying.
- Fry to Golden Perfection: Carefully place the coated shrimp into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and lead to soggy shrimp. Fry for 4-5 minutes, or until the shrimp are beautifully golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon or tongs to remove the fried shrimp, transferring them to a wire rack set over paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Making the Signature Buffalo Sauce
No buffalo shrimp are complete without that iconic, tangy, and slightly spicy sauce.
- Combine Sauce Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine your favorite buffalo sauce (Frank’s RedHot is a classic choice), minced fresh garlic, and unsalted butter.
- Simmer to Perfection: Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the butter is fully melted and the sauce is heated through and slightly thickened. The fresh garlic adds a wonderful aromatic depth that elevates the store-bought sauce.
Tossing and Serving
The final step brings everything together for an unforgettable dish.
- Coat the Shrimp: In a large mixing bowl, combine the freshly fried crispy shrimp with the warm buffalo sauce. Toss gently but thoroughly until every piece of shrimp is glistening and evenly coated in the rich, spicy sauce.
- Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve these buffalo shrimp immediately while they are still warm and at their crispiest. They are traditionally served with a side of creamy blue cheese dressing, which provides a cooling contrast to the spicy shrimp. If blue cheese isn’t your preference, ranch dressing is another excellent option. Don’t forget some crunchy celery and carrot sticks for a refreshing bite!
Top Tips for the Perfect Buffalo Shrimp
Achieving restaurant-quality buffalo shrimp at home is easier with these expert tips:
- Shrimp Selection: Always opt for raw, peeled, and deveined shrimp. Fresh shrimp are ideal, but high-quality frozen shrimp (thawed completely and patted dry) work perfectly too.
- Tail On or Off?: While I recommend removing the shrimp tails for easier eating, you can leave them on if you prefer. This often gives a more “dippable” handle.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: This is a crucial rule for frying. Frying in batches ensures the oil temperature stays high, leading to crispy, not greasy, results.
- Spice It Up (or Down): For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to your flour mixture or directly to your buffalo sauce. If you prefer a milder flavor, choose a less spicy buffalo sauce.
- Thorough Coating: Take your time to really coat each shrimp in the seasoned flour. This is what creates that beautiful, crispy crust. Gently shake off excess flour before frying to prevent the oil from becoming murky.
- Oil Temperature is Key: Invest in a kitchen thermometer. Keeping the oil as close to 375°F (190°C) as possible is paramount. Oil that’s too hot will burn the coating before the shrimp cooks, and oil that’s not hot enough will result in a greasy, soggy product.
- Use Fresh Garlic in Sauce: While you can use garlic powder, fresh minced garlic in the buffalo sauce adds an unparalleled depth of flavor that makes a big difference.
- Serve Immediately: Fried foods are always best fresh. Have your sauce ready and toss the shrimp as soon as they come out of the oil for maximum crispiness and warmth.
What Goes Well With Buffalo Shrimp?
These spicy, crispy delights are incredibly versatile when it comes to pairings. While I personally can’t resist serving them with classic blue cheese dressing, don’t hesitate to experiment!
- Dips: Creamy blue cheese is the traditional choice, offering a cool, tangy contrast. Ranch dressing is another fantastic alternative, especially for those who prefer a milder flavor. A honey mustard dip or even a simple garlic aioli could also complement the shrimp beautifully.
- Crisp Veggies: Celery sticks and carrot sticks are essential. Their crunch and freshness provide a perfect counterpoint to the rich, spicy shrimp.
- Main Dishes: Turn your buffalo shrimp into a meal! Serve them over a bed of fluffy white rice, alongside a fresh garden salad, or with a side of crispy French fries or sweet potato fries. They also pair wonderfully with a light coleslaw or a simple corn on the cob.
- Beverages: A cold beer or a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio can perfectly cut through the richness and spice.
Once you make these at home, you’ll find yourself craving them constantly. Say goodbye to plain fried shrimp and hello to an explosion of buffalo flavor!
More Delicious Seafood Recipes You’ll Enjoy
If you’re a fan of seafood, be sure to check out these other fantastic recipes to expand your culinary repertoire:
- Salmon Burgers: A healthy and flavorful alternative to traditional burgers.
- Spicy Honey Shrimp and Broccoli: A quick and easy weeknight meal with a sweet and spicy kick.
- Creamy Shrimp Alfredo Pasta: Indulgent and satisfying, perfect for a cozy dinner.
- Creamy Garlic Salmon and Shrimp: A luxurious dish that combines two beloved seafood favorites.
For even more culinary inspiration and helpful cooking tutorial videos, make sure to visit Cooked by Julie on Youtube and follow on Facebook. You’ll find a wealth of recipes designed to make cooking enjoyable and accessible for everyone.
Buffalo Shrimp
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Ingredients
- 1 lb peeled and deveined shrimp
- 1 cup all purpose flour
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 tsp granulated garlic
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp paprika
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup buffalo sauce
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 garlic clove
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
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In a medium bowl, combine milk, salt, pepper, 1/2 tsp granulated garlic, 1/2 tsp oregano, and 1/2 tsp paprika. Whisk well to ensure all spices are incorporated.
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Pat the peeled and deveined shrimp thoroughly dry with paper towels. Place the dried shrimp in the prepared milk mixture and let it sit for 10 minutes to marinate and tenderize.
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While the shrimp marinates, heat vegetable oil in a large, deep saucepan or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Use a kitchen thermometer to ensure the oil reaches 375 degrees F (190°C) before frying.
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In a separate shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour, the remaining salt, pepper, 1/2 tsp granulated garlic, 1/2 tsp oregano, and 1/2 tsp paprika. Mix thoroughly to create a seasoned flour mixture.
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Remove the shrimp from the milk mixture, discarding any excess liquid. Place the shrimp into the seasoned flour, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Press gently to help the flour adhere, then shake off any excess.
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Carefully place the coated shrimp into the hot oil in small batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 4-5 minutes, or until the shrimp turn golden crisp and are cooked through. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a wire rack to drain.
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While the shrimp are frying, prepare the buffalo sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the buffalo sauce, minced fresh garlic, and unsalted butter. Cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring until the butter is melted and the sauce is warm and well combined.
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Transfer the fried shrimp to a large mixing bowl. Pour the warm buffalo sauce over the shrimp and toss gently until each piece is thoroughly coated.
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Serve immediately with a side of blue cheese dressing, celery sticks, and carrot sticks for the ultimate buffalo shrimp experience! Enjoy!
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Nutrition
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