Southern cooking has a special way of turning simple ingredients into unforgettable comfort food, and Southern Fried Shrimp is one of those dishes that proves it. Crispy, golden, seasoned just right, and irresistible straight out of the fryer—this is the kind of shrimp that reminds you why Southern kitchens are legendary.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard fish fry, craving a coastal-style dinner, or simply want a quick recipe that delivers big flavor, Southern Fried Shrimp is a crowd-pleasing classic that never disappoints. Even better? It’s easy to make at home, and the results are downright addictive.
What Makes Southern Fried Shrimp Special?
Southern-style frying is all about big flavor and perfect crunch. Unlike tempura-light coatings or thick beer batters, this shrimp gets its crispiness from a perfectly seasoned flour mixture that fries up beautifully. Every bite gives you:
A crunchy, golden exterior
A juicy, tender shrimp inside
A burst of Southern-seasoned flavor
It’s comfort food with coastal charm—and dangerously easy to keep eating.
Ingredients for Classic Southern Fried Shrimp
You don't need much to make magic happen. Just a few pantry staples plus fresh shrimp:
Shrimp
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Keep tails on for presentation (optional)
Pat dry for maximum crispiness
Dry Coating
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornmeal
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
Wet Dip
2 eggs
1/4 cup buttermilk or regular milk
A dash of hot sauce (optional but recommended!)
For Frying
Vegetable oil or peanut oil
How to Make Southern Fried Shrimp
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