Go Back
A plate of crispy popcorn shrimp with dipping sauce on the side

Easy Popcorn Shrimp

A delicious and crispy popcorn shrimp recipe that's perfect for any gathering, easy to prepare, and full of flavor.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Shrimp
  • 1 lb small raw shrimp Peel and devein, tails on or off.
  • 1 cup buttermilk For marinating the shrimp.
  • 1 tsp hot sauce Adds a kick of flavor.
For the Coating
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour For a crispy exterior.
  • 0.33 cup cornstarch Adds extra crunch.
  • 0.5 cup fine cornmeal Enhances texture and flavor.
  • 0.75 cup panko breadcrumbs For light crispiness.
  • 1.5 tsp paprika Adds color and warmth.
  • 1 tsp garlic powder Amplifies flavor.
  • 1 tsp onion powder Enhances overall flavor.
  • 0.25 tsp cayenne pepper For a spicy kick.
  • 0.5 tsp baking powder Ensures airy texture.
  • 1.25 tsp kosher salt Divided for seasoning.
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper Ties seasoning together.
  • 3 cups vegetable oil For frying.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Rinse shrimp under cold water and pat dry.
  2. In a bowl, combine buttermilk and hot sauce; add shrimp, cover, and marinate for at least 20 minutes.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, cornmeal, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, baking powder, and 1 tsp kosher salt.
  4. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F.
Cooking
  1. Remove shrimp from marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off. Dredge in the dry mixture.
  2. Fry shrimp in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
  3. Season hot shrimp with remaining kosher salt and black pepper.

Notes

Serve with cocktail sauce or a creamy dipping sauce. Can be incorporated into salads or tacos. Avoid overcrowding the pan while frying to maintain crispiness.