Crispy popcorn shrimp are bite-sized pieces of shrimp that are coated in a crunchy breading and fried to golden perfection. They make a fun and tasty snack or appetizer!
These little morsels are always a hit at parties or movie nights. I love dipping them in cocktail sauce—it’s like a party in my mouth! 🍤🎉
Making them is a breeze; just coat, fry, and enjoy! They’re perfect for sharing, but I often end up eating more than my fair share. Who can resist that crunch?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Medium shrimp work best for this recipe. If you’re in a pinch, you can use frozen shrimp—just make sure to thaw them completely before using. Some folks prefer larger shrimp for a bigger bite!
Buttermilk: This gives a nice tang and helps tenderize the shrimp. If you don’t have buttermilk, a quick substitute is mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 10 minutes before using.
Panko Breadcrumbs: I love using panko for that extra crunch, but regular breadcrumbs can substitute if needed. Just know they won’t be as crispy. You can even blend some crackers for a fun twist!
Spices: Garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika add flavor to the shrimp. Feel free to adjust the amounts or swap them out for your preferred spices—cajun seasoning could be a great alternative!
How Can I Get the Shrimp Extra Crispy?
The secret to crispy popcorn shrimp lies in the coating process. Here’s a breakdown to help you nail it:
- Soak the shrimp in buttermilk to keep them juicy.
- Dredge in flour then dip back into buttermilk. This double-coating helps the panko stick better.
- Finally, coat thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs, pressing down slightly to ensure they adhere.
- Fry in hot oil (350°F) in small batches—this keeps the heat steady and results in that perfect crunch.
Don’t rush; crispy takes time, but I promise, it’s worth it! Enjoy your shrimp with lemon and dipping sauce for that perfect pop of flavor! 🍋
How to Make Crispy Popcorn Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Optional Dipping Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and roughly 10 minutes to cook. After the cooking time, you can serve right away, making it a quick and delicious dish perfect for a snack or appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps the coating stick better. Keep the shrimp whole for that classic popcorn shrimp look!
2. Soak in Buttermilk:
In a medium bowl, soak the shrimp in buttermilk for 15-20 minutes. The buttermilk not only adds flavor but also helps tenderize the shrimp, making them juicy and delicious.
3. Mix the Coatings:
In another bowl, mix together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This will be your seasoned flour mixture. In a shallow dish, pour the panko breadcrumbs for the crispy coating.
4. Heat the Oil:
In a deep fryer or a large pot, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). It’s important to have the right temperature for frying to achieve that crunchy texture.
5. Coat the Shrimp:
Take each shrimp out of the buttermilk, letting any excess drip off. First, dredge the shrimp in the flour mixture, ensuring they are well coated. Dip them back into the buttermilk, then roll them in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to help them adhere.
6. Fry the Shrimp:
Carefully place the shrimp in the hot oil in batches. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Be careful not to overcrowd the pot, as it can lower the oil temperature.
7. Drain and Garnish:
Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove the shrimp and let them drain on a paper towel-lined plate. This helps get rid of any excess oil. Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh touch.
8. Make the Optional Dipping Sauce:
If you’d like some dipping sauce, simply whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, hot sauce, lemon juice, and smoked paprika in a small bowl.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the crispy popcorn shrimp warm with lemon wedges and the dipping sauce on the side. Enjoy the crunch and flavor as you munch away!
These crispy popcorn shrimp are perfect for gatherings, game nights, or just when you’re craving something tasty. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely overnight in the refrigerator or quickly under cold running water, then pat them dry before using.
How Do I Store Leftover Crispy Popcorn Shrimp?
Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to help restore their crispiness.
Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. This way, you can still enjoy crispy popcorn shrimp without the gluten.
What Dipping Sauce Pairs Best with Popcorn Shrimp?
A classic cocktail sauce is a great choice, but you can also enjoy them with spicy mayonnaise or even a sweet chili sauce for a different twist! Feel free to get creative with your favorite sauces!
