If you love bold, crispy, and finger-licking good bites, this Buffalo Shrimp Recipe is going to become your new obsession. Imagine plump, succulent shrimp coated in a perfectly crunchy panko crust, then generously tossed in a tangy, buttery buffalo sauce that hits just the right balance of spicy and savory. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser whether you’re hosting game day, a casual dinner, or just craving a zesty snack. Plus, this Buffalo Shrimp Recipe combines simple ingredients with minimal fuss for maximum flavor and satisfaction every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this Buffalo Shrimp Recipe, and luckily, each component is easy to find and plays an important role in taste, texture, and color. From the crispy panko coating to the vibrant green onions that finish the dish, every item enhances the experience.
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined with tails on: The star of the dish, juicy and tender with just the right size for frying.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Helps the coating stick to the shrimp and adds mild crispness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick of warmth.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a gentle, savory depth.
- 2 large eggs, beaten: Acts as the glue to keep the panko breadcrumbs attached.
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs: Creates that irresistible airy crunch that every buffalo shrimp needs.
- Vegetable oil for frying: Essential for getting the shrimp golden and crispy.
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce: Provides the signature tangy, spicy coating we love.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Melted into the sauce for richness and smoothness.
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional): Adds a subtle sweetness that balances the heat perfectly.
- Chopped green onions: For a fresh, colorful garnish with mild bite.
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing for serving: Creamy dips that temper the spicy buffalo flavor wonderfully.
How to Make Buffalo Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the shrimp and coating
Begin by patting the shrimp dry using paper towels; this step is crucial to help the flour mixture stick. Next, combine the flour, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder in a shallow bowl. Set up your dredging stations with beaten eggs in one bowl and panko breadcrumbs in another—this three-step coating process ensures a crispy, flavorful crust on every shrimp.
Step 2: Coat the shrimp
One by one, dredge each shrimp first in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the beaten eggs to moisten the surface, and finally press it firmly into the panko breadcrumbs so the coating clings well. This triple-dip method is the secret to achieving that perfect crunch.
Step 3: Fry the shrimp
Heat about two inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or saucepan over medium-high heat. Once the oil reaches the right temperature (around 350°F or when a breadcrumb sizzles upon contact), carefully add the shrimp in batches. Fry them for about 2 to 3 minutes per side until they turn golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Step 4: Make the buffalo sauce and toss
While the shrimp fries, melt the unsalted butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in the buffalo wing sauce and honey, if you want a touch of sweetness to balance the heat. Once combined and warm, transfer the fried shrimp to a large bowl and toss them well in the buffalo sauce until they’re fully coated and irresistibly glossy.
How to Serve Buffalo Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
For the finishing touch, sprinkle chopped green onions over the buffalo shrimp. Their bright color and mild oniony crunch add a refreshing contrast to the spicy, crispy shrimp. Offering a side of cool ranch or blue cheese dressing is a must — dipping the shrimp into these creamy sauces creates an unbeatable flavor harmony.
Side Dishes
This Buffalo Shrimp Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple sides like crisp celery sticks, a fresh garden salad, or even fluffy white rice. The mildness of these sides balances the bold spice and gives your meal a well-rounded dimension. For game day, serve alongside crispy fries or baked potato wedges to keep the feast casual and fun.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond just a plate! Arrange your buffalo shrimp in a vibrant lettuce cup for handheld bites, or skewer multiple shrimp for fun party appetizers. You can even layer the shrimp over nachos with melted cheese and jalapeños for a spicy, crunchy twist everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover buffalo shrimp, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. While they won’t retain quite the original crispness, reheating them gently can help bring back some of the texture and flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked buffalo shrimp by spreading them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They keep well for up to a month. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve taste and texture.
Reheating
To reheat buffalo shrimp without losing too much crispness, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 8 to 10 minutes or use an air fryer for a few minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the coating soggy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this Buffalo Shrimp Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and pat them completely dry before coating and frying to ensure the crust sticks well and fries up crispy.
How spicy is the Buffalo Shrimp Recipe?
The heat level mostly depends on the buffalo wing sauce you use. You can choose a mild, medium, or hot sauce according to your preference. Adding honey also helps mellow out the spice for a more balanced flavor.
Is there a healthier way to make Buffalo Shrimp?
Yes! Instead of deep frying, you can either bake the shrimp in the oven or use an air fryer. Both methods reduce oil usage while still delivering a tasty, crispy result.
What can I serve instead of ranch or blue cheese dressing?
If you’re not a fan of ranch or blue cheese, a simple cool yogurt dip with lemon juice and herbs or even a creamy avocado dip makes a delicious alternative for balancing the spice.
Can I make Buffalo Shrimp Recipe ahead of time for a party?
You can prepare the shrimp coating ahead and keep the shrimp refrigerated until frying. The sauce can be made in advance too. Fry and toss the shrimp in sauce just before serving to keep them crispiest and freshest for your guests.
Final Thoughts
This Buffalo Shrimp Recipe is a beautiful blend of crispy texture, bold flavors, and simple ingredients that come together to create an absolute crowd favorite. Whether you’re sharing it with friends or treating yourself to a flavorful snack, these shrimp deliver on every level. Give it a try soon — I promise you’ll fall in love with every spicy, buttery bite!
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Buffalo Shrimp Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
This classic Buffalo Shrimp recipe features crispy, golden fried shrimp tossed in a luscious, spicy buffalo wing sauce with a hint of honey for a perfect balance of heat and sweetness. Ideal as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or paired with rice or salad for a satisfying meal, this dish combines crispy textures with bold flavors in true American style.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Breading
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined with tails on
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil for frying (about 2 inches deep)
Sauce
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
For Serving
- Chopped green onions
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing
Instructions
- Prepare the shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry thoroughly using paper towels to ensure the coating sticks properly.
- Set up dredging stations: In one shallow bowl, mix together the flour, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Place beaten eggs in a second bowl, and panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl.
- Coat the shrimp: Dredge each shrimp first in the seasoned flour mixture, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat evenly with panko breadcrumbs.
- Heat the oil: Pour about 2 inches of vegetable oil into a deep skillet or saucepan and heat over medium-high until hot but not smoking, around 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the shrimp: Fry the shrimp in batches for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they are golden brown, crispy, and cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain oil temperature.
- Drain excess oil: Remove fried shrimp with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain off excess oil.
- Make the buffalo sauce: In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter then stir in buffalo wing sauce and honey for sweetness if using. Heat until combined and warm.
- Toss shrimp in sauce: Place the fried shrimp in a bowl and toss thoroughly with the buffalo sauce ensuring each piece is well coated.
- Serve: Serve immediately garnished with chopped green onions and alongside your choice of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
Notes
- For a healthier alternative, bake or air-fry the shrimp instead of deep frying to reduce oil intake.
- You can adjust the buffalo sauce heat level by choosing milder or spicier varieties based on your preference.
- This dish works great as a party appetizer or can be served over rice or salad to make a full meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
