If you’re craving a dish that combines that iconic spicy kick with a crispy, juicy bite, this Buffalo Shrimp Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender shrimp, perfectly battered and fried to golden perfection, then drenched in a tangy, buttery buffalo sauce that delivers a thrilling burst of flavor in every bite. Whether you’re gearing up for game day or simply want a crowd-pleasing appetizer that excites the taste buds, this Buffalo Shrimp Recipe packs all the comfort and zing you could ask for in one irresistible plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple ingredients are the foundation of the dish’s incredible taste and texture, each playing a vital role—from the tender shrimp to the crispy coating and that luscious buffalo sauce that ties everything together.
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on or off): The star of the dish, shrimp should be fresh or properly thawed for the best texture and flavor.
- 1/2 cup buttermilk: Helps tenderize the shrimp and adds a subtle tang to balance the spice.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Provides structure for the crispy coating that clings to each shrimp.
- 1/2 cup cornstarch: Adds extra crunch, making the coating delightfully crisp.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: A subtle layer of savory depth in the batter and the sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Gives a mild smokiness and beautiful color to the coating.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance every flavor note.
- Oil for frying: Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point to ensure perfect frying.
- 1/4 cup hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot): The classic buffalo kick that delivers heat and tang.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted): Adds richness and mellows out the heat for a perfect balance.
- 1 teaspoon honey or brown sugar (optional): A touch of sweetness to round out the sauce if you like.
- Pinch of garlic powder: Boosts the garlicky notes in the buffalo sauce.
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing (optional): Perfect for dipping and cooling off the spicy shrimp.
- Celery sticks (optional): Adds a crisp, refreshing crunch to accompany each bite.
- Chopped green onions (optional): A fresh, vibrant garnish to brighten the presentation.
How to Make Buffalo Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp
Start by tossing the shrimp in buttermilk and let them soak for about 10 minutes. This simple marinade tenderizes the shrimp while imparting a subtle tang that enhances the overall flavor of your Buffalo Shrimp Recipe.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
While the shrimp are marinating, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl. This mixture creates the perfect crispy coating that will hold onto the buffalo sauce beautifully.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
Pour about 2 inches of oil into a deep skillet or saucepan and heat it over medium-high until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Heating the oil to the right temperature is crucial for getting that golden, crunchy exterior without absorbing excess oil.
Step 4: Coat and Fry the Shrimp
Remove the shrimp from the buttermilk, letting any excess drip off, then dredge each piece thoroughly in the flour mixture. Fry the shrimp in batches for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they turn crispy and golden. Lay them on paper towels to drain any extra oil—this step keeps the shrimp wonderfully crunchy.
Step 5: Make the Buffalo Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together hot sauce, melted butter, honey or brown sugar if you like a hint of sweetness, and a pinch of garlic powder. This buffalo sauce is the hallmark of the dish, combining heat, richness, and a touch of savory flavor that clings to each shrimp.
Step 6: Toss the Shrimp in Sauce
Finally, toss the fried shrimp in the buffalo sauce until each piece is evenly coated. This is where the magic happens, transforming simple fried shrimp into a mouthwatering spicy treat that’s hard to resist.
How to Serve Buffalo Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Buffalo Shrimp Recipe, fresh garnishes are key. Chopped green onions add a burst of color and freshness, while crunchy celery sticks provide an ideal balance to the spicy shrimp. Don’t forget a side of chilled ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping—this cool contrast is a game changer.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with classic sides like crispy French fries or a crunchy coleslaw, which help cut through the richness of the buffalo sauce. You can also serve it alongside a fresh garden salad or grilled veggies to keep things light and vibrant.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your buffalo shrimp on toasted buns with crisp lettuce and creamy dressing for a delicious sandwich experience. Alternatively, arrange them over a bed of steamed rice or cauliflower rice for a satisfying main course that is as colorful as it is flavorful.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover buffalo shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep their best quality for up to 2 days, though best enjoyed fresh for maximum crispness and flavor.
Freezing
While you can freeze cooked shrimp, it’s best to do so before tossing them in buffalo sauce to avoid sogginess. Freeze the plain fried shrimp on a baking sheet and then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating and saucing.
Reheating
To regain that crispy texture, reheat leftover shrimp in an air fryer or oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes instead of microwaving. After warming, toss with buffalo sauce just before serving to keep the flavors vibrant and fresh.
FAQs
Can I make this Buffalo Shrimp Recipe healthier?
Absolutely! You can bake or air-fry the shrimp instead of frying to reduce calories and fat. Simply coat the shrimp as usual, cook until crispy, and then toss in buffalo sauce for a lighter version that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
What kind of hot sauce works best?
Classic cayenne-based hot sauces like Frank’s RedHot are perfect because they offer the right balance of heat and tang. Feel free to adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance, but this type of sauce gives the authentic buffalo flavor.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw and pat the shrimp dry before marinating. Excess moisture can prevent the coating from sticking properly and affect the crispiness of the shrimp.
Is this recipe suitable for appetizers and main courses?
Definitely. This Buffalo Shrimp Recipe works beautifully as a shareable appetizer or a satisfying main dish when served with sides like rice, salad, or veggies.
How do I get the shrimp extra crispy?
The secret lies in combining flour and cornstarch for the coating and frying at the right temperature. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan so the oil temperature stays stable and the shrimp fry evenly crisp.
Final Thoughts
This Buffalo Shrimp Recipe is a true winner for anyone who loves vibrant, spicy flavors with crispy texture and juicy shrimp. It’s straightforward to make yet impressively delicious and perfect for so many occasions. Give it a try and watch this dish quickly become one of your go-to favorites, whether for casual nights in or lively gatherings with friends and family.
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Buffalo Shrimp Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
Crispy and flavorful Buffalo Shrimp coated in a spicy, tangy buffalo sauce, perfect for appetizers or a main course. This recipe features jumbo shrimp dredged in a seasoned flour mixture, fried to golden perfection, and then tossed in a buttery hot sauce. Serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing and celery sticks for a classic game day treat.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Coating
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on or off)
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying (about 2 inches deep)
Buffalo Sauce
- 1/4 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 teaspoon honey or brown sugar (optional, for sweetness)
- Pinch of garlic powder
For Serving (Optional)
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing
- Celery sticks
- Chopped green onions
Instructions
- Marinate the Shrimp: In a bowl, toss the shrimp with buttermilk. Allow them to marinate for 10 minutes, which helps tenderize the shrimp and allows the coating to adhere better.
- Prepare the Coating: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful dredge for the shrimp.
- Heat the Oil: Pour about 2 inches of oil into a deep skillet or saucepan and heat over medium-high until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Proper oil temperature is key for crispy shrimp.
- Coat the Shrimp: Remove shrimp from the buttermilk, shaking off any excess liquid. Dredge each shrimp in the flour mixture until fully coated, ensuring an even crispy layer after frying.
- Fry the Shrimp: Carefully fry the coated shrimp in batches for 2–3 minutes per side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan for even cooking. Drain the fried shrimp on a paper towel–lined plate to absorb excess oil.
- Make Buffalo Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the hot sauce, melted butter, optional honey or brown sugar, and a pinch of garlic powder to form the classic buffalo sauce.
- Toss Shrimp in Sauce: Place the fried shrimp in a bowl and toss with the buffalo sauce until all pieces are evenly coated with the spicy buttery mixture.
- Serve: Plate the buffalo shrimp immediately and serve with your choice of ranch or blue cheese dressing, celery sticks, and a sprinkle of chopped green onions if desired.
Notes
- For a lighter alternative, bake or air-fry the shrimp instead of frying and drizzle with buffalo sauce after cooking.
- You can also grill the shrimp and brush them with buffalo sauce for a smoky, healthier twist.
- Adjust the heat level of the buffalo sauce by varying the amount of hot sauce and honey.
- Using tails-on shrimp can add extra flavor and make them easier to handle while eating.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
