Pan Fried Shrimp is a quick and yummy dish that’s perfect for seafood lovers. The shrimp get a nice crispy coating and are packed with flavor, making them super tasty!
They cook up fast, too! I love serving them with a side of rice or fresh salad. It’s quick enough for a weeknight meal, but fancy enough for a special dinner. 🦐✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp work best for this recipe since they hold up well when frying. If you’re on a budget, frozen shrimp are a great option. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can also substitute shrimp with scallops or even chicken if you prefer.
Breadcrumbs: I prefer using panko breadcrumbs for their extra crunch. If you can’t find panko, regular breadcrumbs will do fine. For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free breadcrumbs. You can also make your own by grinding up stale bread!
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a lovely touch of color and flavor. If you don’t have parsley, cilantro or green onions can work too. Dried herbs can be a substitute, just use about one-third of the amount since they are more concentrated.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is preferred for its strong flavor, but garlic powder can be used as a substitute if that’s all you have. I enjoy adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat, too!
How Can I Cook Shrimp Perfectly Without Overcooking?
Cooking shrimp requires careful timing since they cook quickly. To avoid overcooked shrimp, follow these steps:
- Make sure your shrimp are fully thawed and dry before coating. This helps them crisp up.
- Heat your pan until the butter is hot and bubbly before adding the shrimp. This ensures quick cooking.
- Cook shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque. This usually takes around 2-3 minutes per side, depending on their size.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; it can lower the temperature and make the shrimp steam instead of fry.
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked shrimp every time! Enjoy your cooking experience!
How to Make Pan Fried Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or plain)
- 2 tbsp parsley, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 3 tbsp butter (or a mix of butter and oil for frying)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, to prevent butter from burning)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 10 minutes to cook, making the total time about 20 minutes. That means you can have a delightful meal on the table in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Rinse and Dry the Shrimp:
Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water to clean them. Then, use paper towels to pat them dry completely. This helps the breadcrumbs stick better and ensures a nice crispy texture.
2. Prepare the Breadcrumb Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together well so that the flavors are evenly distributed.
3. Coat the Shrimp:
Take the shrimp and toss them in the breadcrumb mixture, making sure each shrimp is coated evenly. This will create a delicious crispy layer when they’re cooked!
4. Heat the Pan:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. If you’re using olive oil to prevent the butter from burning, add it at this time as well. Let the butter get hot and foamy before proceeding.
5. Cook the Shrimp:
Carefully add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will steam the shrimp instead of frying them. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy on one side, then flip them over and cook for another 2 minutes until they are pink and opaque.
6. Drain Excess Oil:
Once the shrimp are cooked, remove them from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any extra oil. This keeps them crispy!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the shrimp immediately with fresh lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over. The lemon adds a nice brightness that complements the shrimp perfectly.
Enjoy your delicious, crispy pan-fried shrimp! Perfect for a quick dinner or a special occasion!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before using them. You can do this by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or quickly thawing them in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for about 30 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have breadcrumbs, crushed crackers or cornmeal can work in a pinch. To keep it gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground oats instead. Enjoy experimenting with different textures!
How Do I Store Leftover Shrimp?
Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. They can be a bit less crispy when reheated, so consider enjoying them cold in salads or wraps!
Can I Make This Recipe Spicy?
Yes, definitely! You can add red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for some heat, or marinate the shrimp in hot sauce before coating them. Adjust the spice level to your preference!
