Buffalo Shrimp Recipe

The Buffalo Shrimp Recipe is a spectacular way to take your taste buds on a flavor-packed adventure. Imagine crispy, golden shrimp coated in a perfectly balanced spicy buffalo sauce that has just the right kick of heat, mellowed out by rich melted butter and a touch of sweet honey if you like. This dish is not only irresistibly crunchy and saucy but also quick to prepare, making it a perfect crowd-pleaser for game days, casual gatherings, or whenever you crave something bold and comforting. If you love shrimp and enjoy a little heat, this Buffalo Shrimp Recipe will surely become one of your favorites to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Buffalo Shrimp Recipe calls for simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create something truly special. Each component plays a key role, from the crispy panko breadcrumbs to the aromatic spices and the fiery hot sauce that brings it all home.

• 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on): Choose fresh or thawed shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Works as the base for the seasoned dredge, ensuring the coating sticks well.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle, savory aroma without overpowering the shrimp.
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Gives a mild smoky flavor and beautiful color to the coating.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors in the dish perfectly.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of warmth and depth.
• 2 large eggs (beaten): Helps the panko breadcrumbs adhere for an ultra-crisp crust.
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs: The secret to that light, crunchy exterior that everybody loves.
• Vegetable oil for frying: Essential for crisping up the shrimp beautifully.
• 1/3 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot): Brings the classic buffalo zing to the shrimp.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted): Balances the heat with creamy richness in the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional): Adds a gentle sweetness to mellow the spice if desired.
• Chopped fresh parsley or green onions for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh pop of color and flavor.

How to Make Buffalo Shrimp Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Shrimp

Start by patting your shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for ensuring the coating adheres properly and fries up crisp instead of soggy. Having the tails on helps keep them juicy and provides a handy little “handle” when you eat.

Step 2: Season and Dredge

In a shallow bowl, mix the flour with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to create a flavorful base coating. Set up a dredging station with your seasoned flour mixture, beaten eggs, and panko breadcrumbs in separate bowls. Dip each shrimp first into the flour, making sure it’s fully coated, then into the eggs, and finally press into the panko until evenly covered. This triple-layer approach locks in moisture and guarantees maximum crunch.

Step 3: Fry Until Golden

Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the shrimp in small batches for 2 to 3 minutes until they turn a gorgeous golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan to keep the oil temperature steady and shrimp crunchy. Once done, drain the shrimp on paper towels to remove any excess oil.

Step 4: Toss in Buffalo Sauce

While the shrimp fry, whisk together hot sauce, melted butter, and honey (if you want a touch of sweetness) in a bowl. Toss the freshly fried shrimp in this vibrant, tangy sauce until each piece is luxuriously coated. This is where all the magic happens, transforming crispy shrimp into irresistible Buffalo Shrimp with a punch of flavor.

How to Serve Buffalo Shrimp Recipe

Garnishes

Adding some chopped fresh parsley or sliced green onions not only gives your dish a beautiful pop of color but also adds a refreshing herbaceous brightness that complements the spicy buffalo sauce wonderfully. It’s a simple touch that elevates the presentation and taste.

Side Dishes

This Buffalo Shrimp Recipe pairs perfectly with classic accompaniments like celery sticks and creamy ranch or blue cheese dressing, which help cool the heat and add variety in texture. For a heartier meal, serve alongside crispy fries, a fresh green salad, or even a bowl of coleslaw for some crunchy balance.

Creative Ways to Present

Feeling creative? Serve these buffalo shrimp on soft tacos with shredded lettuce and a drizzle of ranch or creamy avocado sauce. Or pile them high on toasted buns for decadent buffalo shrimp sliders. Another fun idea is to serve them as a spicy salad topper, turning an ordinary salad into a dazzling, flavor-packed experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers, place your buffalo shrimp in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They will stay tasty for up to 2 days. Keep in mind the breading may lose some crispness over time, but the flavors remain amazing.

Freezing

You can freeze uncooked, breaded shrimp on a baking sheet in a single layer. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, bake or air fry directly from frozen for a quick, convenient snack that tastes nearly as fresh as homemade.

Reheating

To keep the coating crispy, reheat your buffalo shrimp in an oven or air fryer at 350°F for about 5 to 7 minutes instead of the microwave. This method revives the crunch and ensures the shrimp stays delicious without becoming soggy.

FAQs

Can I make this Buffalo Shrimp Recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply swap the all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives. Many stores offer gluten-free panko, or you can even use crushed gluten-free cornflakes for a similar crunch.

What’s the best hot sauce to use?

Frank’s RedHot is the classic go-to for buffalo flavor thanks to its perfect balance of heat and tanginess, but feel free to use your favorite brand or adjust the amount to suit your spice tolerance.

Is there a healthier way to cook these shrimp?

Yes! Instead of frying, you can bake the breaded shrimp in a 425°F oven for 12 to 15 minutes or use an air fryer at 400°F for 8 to 10 minutes. Both methods keep things crispy with less oil.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Definitely. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before dredging and frying. Excess moisture can prevent the coating from sticking properly and result in less crispiness.

How spicy is this Buffalo Shrimp Recipe?

The heat level depends on the amount and type of hot sauce used. It offers a pleasantly spicy kick rather than overwhelming heat, but you can add more honey or reduce the hot sauce if you prefer milder flavors.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a crispy, spicy, buttery buffalo shrimp that just hits all the right notes. This Buffalo Shrimp Recipe is easy to follow, quick to make, and endlessly adaptable, making it a wonderful go-to for any occasion where good food and good company come together. I encourage you to give it a try and watch it become a beloved staple in your kitchen!

Buffalo Shrimp Recipe

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• Author: admin
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

This Buffalo Shrimp recipe features large shrimp coated in a crispy panko breadcrumb crust and tossed in a tangy, spicy buffalo sauce made with hot sauce, melted butter, and a touch of honey for sweetness. Perfect as a flavorful appetizer or game day snack, these shrimp are fried to golden perfection and garnished with fresh parsley or green onions for a vibrant finish.

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Ingredients

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Shrimp Coating

• 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 large eggs (beaten)
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• Vegetable oil for frying

Buffalo Sauce

• 1/3 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional)

Garnish

• Chopped fresh parsley or green onions (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, ensuring the coating sticks well.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a shallow bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper, mixing thoroughly.
3. Set up dredging stations: Place the beaten eggs in a second bowl and panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl for easy coating.
4. Coat the shrimp: Dredge each shrimp first in the seasoned flour mixture, then dip in the beaten eggs, and finally coat evenly with panko breadcrumbs.
5. Heat oil: Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C) to achieve the ideal frying temperature.
6. Fry the shrimp: Fry the shrimp in batches for 2–3 minutes until they turn golden and crispy. Avoid overcrowding to maintain oil temperature.
7. Drain excess oil: Remove the fried shrimp with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
8. Prepare buffalo sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the hot sauce, melted butter, and honey (if using) until well combined.
9. Toss shrimp in sauce: Gently toss the fried shrimp in the buffalo sauce until evenly coated with the spicy glaze.
10. Serve: Serve the buffalo shrimp immediately, garnished with chopped parsley or green onions if desired, for an extra fresh touch.

Notes

• For a healthier alternative, air fry the breaded shrimp at 400°F for 8–10 minutes instead of frying.
• You can also bake the shrimp in a 425°F oven for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
• Serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing and celery sticks for a classic buffalo flavor experience.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American