If you’re craving a crispy, slightly spicy, and irresistibly sweet seafood treat, then this Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine juicy, golden-fried shrimp coated in a crunchy panko crust, perfectly seasoned with smoked paprika and garlic powder, then drizzled with a luscious hot honey glaze that brings just the right amount of heat and sweetness. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing dish that manages to feel indulgent yet fresh, striking that magical balance that’ll have you reaching for seconds before you know it. Whether you’re serving it for a casual dinner or impressing friends at your next gathering, this recipe brings bold flavors and unforgettable crunch to the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Recipe is simple but plays a crucial role in creating layers of flavor and that perfect texture. From the spice mix that seasons the shrimp to the crispy panko coating and the sticky-sweet hot honey glaze, each component works together beautifully to make this dish sing.
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star of the dish, juicy and tender seafood ready to soak up all the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle depth and warmth to the shrimp seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Brings smoky, mild heat and vibrant color to the coating.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential basic seasoning to enhance all the other flavors.
- ½ cup all-purpose flour: Creates the first layer of the dredge for a light crust.
- 1 cup buttermilk: Helps the panko breadcrumbs stick and adds a slight tanginess.
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs: The secret to that perfect crunchy, golden exterior.
- Vegetable oil, for frying: Use a neutral oil that can get hot enough for crisp frying.
- â…“ cup honey: The natural sweetness that balances the heat in the glaze.
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce: Adds a spicy kick that brings exciting heat to every bite.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Makes the hot honey glaze rich and glossy.
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For an extra punch of heat that’s perfect if you love things spicy.
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar: Adds a subtle tang to brighten and balance the glaze flavors.
How to Make Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Season the Shrimp
Start by patting your shrimp dry with paper towels. This is key to getting a crisp crust. Then, toss them in a mixture of garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. These simple spices give your shrimp that flavorful foundation before frying.
Step 2: Prepare the Dredging Stations
Set up three bowls side by side — one with flour, one with buttermilk, and one with panko breadcrumbs. This classic three-step coating method is how you get that irresistible crispy texture. Each step builds on the last, helping the breadcrumbs cling snugly to the shrimp.
Step 3: Coat the Shrimp
Dredge each shrimp first in the flour, shaking off excess, then dip into the buttermilk, and finally press into the panko breadcrumbs. Lay the coated shrimp on a tray, ready for frying. This step is where texture magic happens, so don’t skip or rush it.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
In a deep skillet or pot, heat your vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer if you have one for the best results. The hot oil ensures the shrimp cooks quickly and crisps up perfectly without soaking up too much oil.
Step 5: Fry the Shrimp
Fry the shrimp in batches, so they have plenty of space and crisp evenly. It should take about 2-3 minutes for each batch to turn a beautiful golden color and develop that crunch we’re after. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Step 6: Make the Hot Honey Glaze
While the shrimp fry, combine honey, hot sauce, butter, red pepper flakes if using, and apple cider vinegar in a small saucepan. Simmer over medium heat, stirring until everything melts and blends into a smooth, glossy glaze. This hot honey glaze is what transforms the fried shrimp into a dazzling dish.
Step 7: Glaze or Serve
Either drizzle the hot honey glaze over the crispy shrimp just before serving or keep it on the side for dipping. Both ways deliver that perfect balance of heat and sweet with every bite.
How to Serve Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes like chopped cilantro, green onions, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice brighten this dish wonderfully. These little touches add freshness and color that complement the spicy-sweet shrimp beautifully.
Side Dishes
Serve your Hot Honey Fried Shrimp alongside simple sides like a crunchy slaw, creamy coleslaw, or fluffy jasmine rice. These help balance the richness of the shrimp and soak up all that delicious hot honey glaze.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn this dish into finger food for a party by stacking the shrimp on skewers or serving them in lettuce cups with a drizzle of the glaze. You can also pile them on mini sandwiches or tacos with slaw and avocado for a fun and tasty twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store the shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the hot honey glaze separate to maintain the crispiness of the shrimp.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked fried shrimp by placing them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, but the texture will be best if eaten fresh.
Reheating
Reheat leftover shrimp gently in a 350°F oven for about 5-7 minutes to regain some crispness. Avoid microwaving as it will make the coating soggy. Warm the hot honey glaze separately on the stove or microwave for a quick drizzle.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw your shrimp completely and pat them dry before seasoning and breading to ensure they fry up crispy and delicious.
How spicy is the hot honey glaze?
The heat level mostly depends on the hot sauce and red pepper flakes used. You can adjust the quantities to suit your taste, making it mild or fiery as you prefer.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs to keep that crunch intact without gluten.
What’s the best oil for frying shrimp?
A neutral oil with a high smoke point like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil works great. This keeps the shrimp crispy and prevents burnt flavors.
Can I prepare the hot honey glaze in advance?
Definitely! The glaze can be made ahead and refrigerated. Just warm it gently before drizzling over the shrimp for serving.
Final Thoughts
This Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Recipe is a total game-changer for anyone who loves a perfect blend of crispy textures, sweet heat, and bold flavors. Every bite bursts with excitement and charm that’s sure to make it a new favorite in your kitchen. I promise once you try it, this recipe will be on repeat for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike. So grab those shrimp, whip up that glaze, and dig in with joy!
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Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Crispy large shrimp are perfectly seasoned, dredged, and fried until golden brown, then tossed in a sweet and spicy hot honey glaze made with honey, hot sauce, and butter. This flavorful dish offers a delightful combination of crunchy texture and a balance of sweet heat, perfect as an appetizer or main dish.
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 the shrimp dry with paper towels, then season evenly with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to build the base flavors.
- Prepare dredging stations: Arrange three bowls—one with all-purpose flour, one with buttermilk, and one with panko breadcrumbs—for a coating process that ensures a crispy texture.
- Coat the shrimp: Dredge each shrimp first in flour to help the buttermilk adhere, dip in buttermilk, then coat thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs. Place the breaded shrimp on a tray, ready for frying.
- Heat oil: Preheat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C), which is the optimal temperature for frying to achieve a crispy exterior without greasiness.
- Fry the shrimp: Fry the shrimp in batches to avoid overcrowding, cooking each batch for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- Make the hot honey glaze: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine honey, hot sauce, butter, red pepper flakes, and apple cider vinegar. Stir constantly and simmer until the mixture is smooth and melted, then remove from heat.
- Glaze and serve: Drizzle the hot honey sauce over the fried shrimp or serve it alongside as a dipping sauce to add a sweet and spicy finish that complements the crispy shrimp perfectly.
Notes
- For an extra spicy kick, increase the amount of hot sauce or red pepper flakes.
- Use a thermometer to maintain oil temperature for even frying and to prevent soggy shrimp.
- If you prefer, substitute apple cider vinegar with lemon juice for a slightly different tang.
- Serve immediately for best texture and flavor as the coating can become soggy over time.
- Keep leftover hot honey glaze refrigerated and use within a week.
