If you love a tasty bite that hits all the right notes—crispy, sweet, spicy, and utterly addictive—you’re going to fall head over heels for this Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Recipe. It’s a perfect blend of crunchy panko-crusted shrimp bathed in a luscious hot honey glaze that wakes up your taste buds and keeps you reaching for more. The balance of smoky spices and that sticky, tangy sauce makes this dish an absolute showstopper for weeknights, parties, or whenever you want to treat yourself to something spectacularly comforting.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Recipe just right comes down to a few well-chosen ingredients that bring all the flavor and texture together beautifully. Each element plays a critical role—from the crispy, golden coating on the shrimp to the vibrant, sweet-spicy glaze that finishes the dish perfectly.
- Large shrimp (1 lb): Peeled and deveined for easy eating and quick cooking that stays juicy inside.
- Garlic powder (1 tsp): Adds a mellow, aromatic depth that complements the shrimp’s natural sweetness.
- Smoked paprika (1 tsp): Brings a warm, smoky undertone that gives the shrimp extra flavor dimension.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing every bite.
- All-purpose flour (½ cup): The first step in creating the crispy outer layer that holds the coating together.
- Buttermilk (1 cup): Keeps the shrimp tender and acts as the perfect sticky base for panko breadcrumbs.
- Panko breadcrumbs (1 cup): Key for that irresistible crunch that defines the fried shrimp experience.
- Vegetable oil: For frying the shrimp to golden perfection without overpowering the flavor.
- Honey (â…“ cup): Balances heat with natural sweetness in the signature hot honey glaze.
- Hot sauce (2 tbsp): Adjust to your preferred spice level to give the glaze its fiery kick.
- Butter (2 tbsp): Adds richness and a silky texture to the glaze.
- Red pepper flakes (¼ tsp, optional): Bring an extra spark of heat if you love things spicy.
- Apple cider vinegar (1 tsp): Adds a slight tang, brightening up the hot honey sauce perfectly.
How to Make Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Season the Shrimp
Start by patting your shrimp dry to ensure the coating sticks beautifully and fries crispy. Then season with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. This simple spice mix builds a fragrant, flavorful base that shines through once fried.
Step 2: Prepare Your Dredging Stations
Set up three separate bowls: one with flour, one with buttermilk, and one with panko breadcrumbs. This assembly line makes the coating process seamless. Each step ensures the shrimp is perfectly breaded and ready to get that golden crust.
Step 3: Coat the Shrimp
Dip each seasoned shrimp first into the flour, which helps the buttermilk stick; then into the buttermilk itself; and finally into the panko breadcrumbs for maximum crunch. Lay the coated shrimp on a tray to rest while you heat the oil.
Step 4: Heat the Oil and Fry
Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Fry the shrimp in batches for about 2-3 minutes each until they turn a gorgeous golden brown and are crispy on the outside. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil but keep that crispiness intact.
Step 5: Make the Hot Honey Glaze
In a small saucepan, combine honey, hot sauce, butter, red pepper flakes if using, and apple cider vinegar. Simmer the mixture over medium heat, stirring until everything melts together smoothly. This glaze is the magic that transforms fried shrimp into an extraordinary dish.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
Drizzle the warm hot honey glaze over your freshly fried shrimp or serve it on the side as a finger-licking dipping sauce. Either way, this final touch brings all the elements of this Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Recipe together for an unforgettable eating experience.
How to Serve Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes takes this dish to the next level. Try sprinkling chopped green onions or fresh cilantro for a little pop of color and brightness. A squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving wakes up the flavors even more and adds a refreshing contrast.
Side Dishes
Hot Honey Fried Shrimp pairs wonderfully with simple sides that balance its richness. Serve alongside crunchy coleslaw for crispness or a light mixed green salad. For heartier options, creamy mashed potatoes or garlic butter rice make for a winning combination.
Creative Ways to Present
Feel like impressing your guests? Serve these shrimp on a bed of zucchini noodles or inside warm slider buns with a slather of mayo for handheld treats. You can also arrange them with colorful roasted veggies for a vibrant plate that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (though they might not last long!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep the shrimp crispy, avoid covering them with any excess sauce until you’re ready to reheat and serve.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked fried shrimp by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet to flash freeze, then transferring them to a freezer bag or container. Frozen, they’ll keep well for up to 1 month. Just note that the texture might be slightly less crispy after thawing.
Reheating
To reheat your Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Recipe without losing crunch, pop them in a preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain that golden crispness; a quick oven refresh is best.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before seasoning and breading. This helps the coating stick properly and prevents sogginess.
How spicy is this Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Recipe?
The heat level is adjustable thanks to the hot sauce and optional red pepper flakes. You can dial it down or up easily depending on your spice preference.
What can I substitute for buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes. This homemade substitute will give you a similar tang and tenderness.
Is it necessary to use panko breadcrumbs?
Panko breadcrumbs are preferred for their light, crisp texture. Regular breadcrumbs work too but expect a denser crust instead of the signature crunch.
Can I make the hot honey sauce ahead of time?
Yes! The hot honey glaze can be made in advance and stored in the fridge in an airtight container for up to a week. Warm it gently before drizzling over the fried shrimp.
Final Thoughts
This Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Recipe is a delightful celebration of flavors and textures that’s surprisingly simple to make but endlessly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just whipping up something special for yourself, these crispy, spicy-sweet shrimp are sure to become a favorite. Give it a go, and prepare for compliments to start rolling in!
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Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Crispy and spicy Hot Honey Fried Shrimp features perfectly seasoned shrimp coated in panko breadcrumbs, fried until golden, and finished with a sticky, sweet, and spicy honey glaze. This quick and flavorful dish makes a delicious appetizer or main course that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Coating
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Hot Honey Glaze
- â…“ cup honey
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Season the Shrimp: Pat shrimp dry with paper towels. Season evenly with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to enhance the natural flavors.
- Prepare Dredging Stations: Set up three separate bowls: one with all-purpose flour, one with buttermilk, and one with panko breadcrumbs. This layering ensures a light, crispy coating.
- Coat the Shrimp: Dredge each shrimp first in the flour, then dip into the buttermilk, and finally coat thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs. Place the coated shrimp on a tray to keep ready for frying.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Proper oil temperature is crucial for achieving a crispy outside without greasy shrimp.
- Fry the Shrimp: Fry shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes until the coating is golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain oil temperature. Drain the cooked shrimp on paper towels.
- Make the Hot Honey Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine honey, hot sauce, butter, red pepper flakes (if using), and apple cider vinegar. Simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently until the butter melts and ingredients are well blended. Remove from heat.
- Serve: Either drizzle the hot honey glaze over the fried shrimp or serve it on the side as a dipping sauce. Enjoy immediately for the crispest texture and best flavor.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of hot sauce and red pepper flakes to control the spice level.
- Use fresh shrimp for the best taste and texture.
- Keep the oil temperature steady to prevent greasy coating.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour and panko with gluten-free alternatives.
- Serve with lemon wedges or a crisp salad for a balanced meal.
