This Southern Fried Shrimp Recipe Is Easy, Delicious, and Bursting With Flavor
Few dishes capture the soul of Southern cooking quite like crispy Southern fried shrimp. Lightly seasoned, perfectly crunchy on the outside, and juicy on the inside, this classic recipe delivers big flavor with surprisingly little effort. Whether served as an appetizer, tucked into a po’ boy, or plated with classic sides, Southern fried shrimp is a crowd-pleaser that never disappoints.
What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity. With a short list of pantry-friendly ingredients and a straightforward method, you can recreate restaurant-quality fried shrimp right in your own kitchen—no complicated techniques required.
Why Southern Fried Shrimp Is So Popular
Southern fried shrimp stands out because it balances texture and taste beautifully. The shrimp cook quickly, staying tender and sweet, while the seasoned coating forms a golden crust that shatters with every bite. A touch of Southern spices adds warmth without overpowering the natural flavor of the shrimp.
This recipe is:
- Super easy to make, even for beginners
- Quick, from prep to plate in under 30 minutes
- Versatile, perfect for meals, snacks, or parties
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make classic Southern fried shrimp, gather the following:
- Large or jumbo raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
- All-purpose flour
- Cornmeal (for extra crunch)
- Eggs
- Buttermilk (or regular milk)
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Paprika
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Vegetable or peanut oil, for frying
These ingredients work together to create a flavorful coating that clings beautifully to the shrimp.
Step-by-Step Method to Make Southern Fried Shrimp
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water and patting them completely dry with paper towels. Dry shrimp are key to helping the coating stick and fry evenly.
Season the shrimp lightly with salt and pepper, then set them aside while you prepare the coating stations.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station
Create three shallow bowls:
- Flour mixture: Combine flour, cornmeal, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Mix well so the seasoning is evenly distributed.
- Egg wash: Whisk eggs with buttermilk until smooth.
- Extra flour mix (optional): For an extra-crispy finish, reserve a small amount of the seasoned flour mixture.
This setup keeps the breading process clean and efficient.
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