Crispy, golden, and packed with flavor, Cornmeal-Crusted Shrimp is a delightful way to enjoy seafood with a Southern-inspired twist. Coated in a seasoned cornmeal mixture, the shrimp fry up perfectly crunchy on the outside while staying tender and juicy on the inside. This recipe is quick and easy, making it ideal for a weeknight meal or as an impressive appetizer. Pair these shrimp with a zesty dipping sauce, a side of coleslaw, or serve them over a fresh salad for a satisfying dish with a hearty crunch.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on or off
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
- Optional: dipping sauce (such as tartar sauce or spicy aioli)
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to help the coating adhere better.
- Set Up Breading Stations: In one shallow bowl, mix the cornmeal, flour, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. In another bowl, beat the eggs.
- Coat the Shrimp: Dip each shrimp into the beaten eggs, letting any excess drip off, then coat it thoroughly in the cornmeal mixture. Press gently to ensure an even crust. Place the coated shrimp on a plate or baking sheet.
- Heat the Oil: Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping in a small pinch of the cornmeal mixture—if it sizzles immediately, it’s ready.
- Fry the Shrimp: Fry the shrimp in batches to avoid overcrowding, cooking for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Serve: Arrange the shrimp on a serving platter with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce.
Enjoy these crispy, flavorful Cornmeal-Crusted Shrimp hot and fresh for a perfect blend of crunch and tender, juicy shrimp!
