Buffalo Shrimp Recipe
If you’re searching for the ultimate crowd-pleaser that packs a punch, look no further than this Buffalo Shrimp Recipe. Crispy, golden shrimp coated in a fiery, buttery buffalo sauce are impossible to resist, especially when served fresh from the skillet. Whether you’re planning a casual game day spread or a fun family dinner, this dish turns everyday shrimp into a flavor-packed appetizer everyone will rave about. With the perfect balance of crunchy texture, spicy heat, and a cool, creamy dip on the side, you’ll find yourself craving these addictive bites all year long!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Buffalo Shrimp Recipe keeps things simple but every single ingredient counts. From snappy fresh shrimp to crispy panko and tangy buffalo sauce, each component layers on flavor, supplying that irresistible taste, texture, and punch of color you want in a party-perfect dish.
- Large shrimp (1 pound, peeled and deveined): The star of the show; fresh, plump shrimp deliver juicy bites and soak up all the flavor.
- All-purpose flour (½ cup): Helps the coating stick and forms the first layer of crunch.
- Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): Adds a subtle warmth and depth to the seasoned flour.
- Paprika (½ teaspoon): For color and a gentle smoky note that pairs perfectly with the spicy sauce.
- Salt (¼ teaspoon): Brings the entire dish to life by enhancing all the other flavors.
- Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Adds a touch of earthiness and mild heat you’ll notice in every bite.
- Large eggs (2, beaten): Help the breadcrumbs stick and create a golden, crunchy shell when fried.
- Panko breadcrumbs (¾ cup): Delivers super-crispy texture that makes every bite irresistible.
- Buffalo wing sauce (½ cup): The heart of the Buffalo Shrimp Recipe, giving it that signature spicy-tangy flavor.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons, melted): Cuts the heat and creates a luscious, restaurant-style sauce.
- Vegetable oil (for frying): Light and neutral oil for a shatteringly crisp fry.
- Chopped green onions or parsley (optional): For a fresh, pop of color and flavor right before serving.
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing (optional): The cool, creamy dip that’s essential for a true Buffalo experience.
How to Make Buffalo Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Set Up the Dredging Station
Begin by getting three shallow bowls lined up and ready; this is your assembly line for that unforgettable crispy coating. In the first bowl, combine flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the beaten eggs to the second bowl, and the panko breadcrumbs to the third. Having everything organized will make the breading process quick, clean, and easy.
Step 2: Coat the Shrimp
Give your shrimp a good pat dry with paper towels to help the coating stick better. One at a time, dredge each shrimp in the seasoned flour (tap off the excess), then dip in the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs. This three-step process ensures every shrimp is blanketed in flavor and set up for the crunchiest bite.
Step 3: Fry to Crispy Perfection
Heat about an inch of vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F. Working in batches, fry shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side, or until the outsides are deeply golden and the shrimp are opaque and firm inside. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels so any extra oil can drain away.
Step 4: Toss with Buffalo Sauce
In a mixing bowl, whisk together your favorite buffalo wing sauce with the melted butter. Add the hot, freshly-fried shrimp and gently toss until every piece is glossy and coated in that spicy, buttery goodness. Act quickly so the shrimp stay extra crispy under the sauce!
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Immediately transfer the sauced shrimp to a serving platter. Sprinkle with chopped green onions or parsley for a burst of freshness and color. If you’d like, add a chilled bowl of ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side for dipping—because no Buffalo Shrimp Recipe is complete without a creamy finish!
How to Serve Buffalo Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
Top each serving with a generous sprinkle of chopped green onions or fresh parsley to add color and a hint of herbal brightness. If you’re feeling indulgent, a light drizzle of extra buffalo sauce or a few blue cheese crumbles can bring the presentation and taste over the top.
Side Dishes
The natural heat and crunch of the Buffalo Shrimp Recipe pairs beautifully with cool, crisp sides. Think celery and carrot sticks for freshness and crunch, or a tangy coleslaw to balance the spice. For heartier appetites, serve over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside buttery slider buns for a fun handheld meal.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to get truly creative, skewer the shrimp for playful party appetizers or toss them atop a salad with romaine, blue cheese, and avocado for a main course with attitude. These shrimp also make a fantastic taco filling, topped with slaw and a drizzle of ranch for an unexpected twist on a classic.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The crust may lose some of its crispness, but the spicy flavor will stick around!
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze cooked (but unsauced) shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. They’ll keep for up to three months, and can be reheated and sauced whenever that craving hits.
Reheating
To recapture that signature crunch, reheat shrimp in a 375°F oven or air fryer for about 8–10 minutes, flipping once. Once hot and crispy, toss in freshly warmed buffalo sauce and they’ll taste as good as new.
FAQs
How spicy is this Buffalo Shrimp Recipe?
The heat level depends on the buffalo sauce you choose. For milder shrimp, reach for a mild or medium sauce; if you love extra kick, go with hot or even add a dash of cayenne.
Can I bake or air-fry the shrimp instead of frying?
Absolutely! For a lighter take, place the breaded shrimp on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in an air fryer basket and cook at 400°F for about 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through.
What’s the best way to peel and devein shrimp?
Hold the shrimp firmly and pull off the shell starting at the legs, leaving the tails on or off as preferred. Use a paring knife to make a shallow incision along the back and lift out the dark vein with the tip of your knife or a toothpick.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this Buffalo Shrimp Recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp work perfectly! Just thaw them completely, pat dry to remove any excess moisture, and proceed with the recipe as written for delicious results.
What dipping sauce pairs best with Buffalo Shrimp?
Classic ranch or blue cheese dressing are traditional favorites, but you can also try creamy avocado dip or a garlicky yogurt sauce for a fresh, tangy twist.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Buffalo Shrimp Recipe enough for anyone looking to bring a spicy, crispy, and downright fun dish to the table. It’s simple, quick, and destined to become a go-to favorite at your next gathering. Give it a try and watch these bold, saucy shrimp disappear faster than you can fry them—enjoy!
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Buffalo Shrimp Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Buffalo Shrimp Recipe is a delicious and crispy appetizer featuring succulent shrimp coated in a flavorful blend of buffalo wing sauce and spices. Perfect for game day or any gathering, these spicy shrimp bites are sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on or off)
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Buffalo Sauce:
- ½ cup buffalo wing sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
Optional Garnishes and Serving:
- Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry. Dredge each shrimp in the seasoned flour, then dip in the beaten eggs, and coat in the breadcrumbs.
- Fry the Shrimp: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet. Fry the shrimp until golden brown and cooked through.
- Toss in Buffalo Sauce: Combine buffalo wing sauce and melted butter. Toss fried shrimp in the sauce until coated.
- Serve: Garnish with green onions or parsley. Serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing if desired.
Notes
- For a lighter version, you can bake or air-fry the breaded shrimp at 400°F for 10–12 minutes.
- Adjust the heat level by using mild or extra hot buffalo sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About ¼ pound
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 870 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 23 g
- Cholesterol: 185 mg
