How to Make the Best Southern Fried Shrimp!
There’s nothing quite like a plate of perfectly fried shrimp, golden and crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside. It doesn’t matter if it’s classic Southern Fried Shrimp, popcorn shrimp, or even coconut shrimp. I’m all in—no matter the variation. This recipe keeps it simple, using just a few basic seasonings you probably already have in your kitchen. And the best part? No need for complicated steps or extra ingredients—just flour, salt, pepper, paprika, and an egg wash with a hint of hot sauce for that extra kick.
For Southern-style fried shrimp, I like to use Jumbo Shrimp and leave the tails on for easy dipping. With this easy-to-follow recipe, you’ll be enjoying mouthwatering, crispy shrimp in no time. Click my underlined affiliated links with amazon, if you’re in need of a Deep Fryer or any other item. They pay me a tiny percentage for any purchases and that helps me continue giving you these free recipe tutorials.
Be sure to try the sauce from my Fire Cracker Shrimp recipe. Some people call it, “Bang-bang Shrimp.” You can use this fried Shrimp recipe to make it and it is awesome. 20 More Shrimp Recipes!
Southern Crispy Fried Shrimp Ingredients:
1-2 lbs large shrimp – Use jumbo shrimp for a hearty, meaty bite; leave the tails on for easy dipping.
2 cups flour – The base of the crispy coating that gives the shrimp that golden, crunchy exterior.
1 1/2 – 2 tsp salt – A necessary seasoning to bring out the natural flavor of the shrimp.
2 tsp black pepper – Adds a mild heat and depth to the seasoning mix.
1 tbsp paprika – For a subtle smoky flavor and that classic Southern color.
For the Spicy Egg Wash:
2 large eggs – Helps the flour adhere to the shrimp for that extra crispy coating.
1/4 cup milk – Provides a smooth base for the egg wash, ensuring a lighter, crispier texture.
2 tbsp hot sauce – Gives the shrimp a subtle kick of heat; Louisiana hot sauce works perfectly for an authentic Southern flavor.
For Frying:
Oil for frying – Peanut oil is the best option, as it fries the shrimp to perfection with a neutral taste that lets the shrimp shine.
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp – Peel and devein the shrimp, leaving the tails on for easy dipping.
- Mix the Coatings – In one bowl, combine the flour, salt, pepper, and paprika. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and hot sauce to create the egg-wash.
- Dredge the shrimp by coating each one first in the dry flour mixture. Next, dip each shrimp into the egg wash. Then coat the shrimp in the flour mixture one last time. This will give it an extra-crispy crunch.
- Fry the Shrimp – Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a large pot or deep fryer. Fry the shrimp in small batches for about 5 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and become crispy. Be sure not to overcrowd the fryer to ensure they cook evenly.
- Serve – Enjoy your Southern Fried Shrimp with or without cocktail sauce for dipping!
Be Sure to watch the YouTube video tutorial and I’ll show you exactly how to make these Crispy Southern Fried Shrimp.