Crispy Popcorn Shrimp are tasty little bites that are perfect for snacking! These shrimp are coated in a crunchy shell and fried until golden brown, making them so hard to resist.
They’re great for sharing, but good luck keeping them in the bowl! I like to dip mine in a zesty sauce for an extra kick. You might find yourself reaching for seconds (or thirds)! 🍤
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Small shrimp make the perfect size for popcorn shrimp. If you can’t find small shrimp, medium ones work too. Fresh is great, but frozen shrimp is super convenient—just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
Flour: All-purpose flour is the standard, but you can substitute with gluten-free flour if needed. Just make sure it’s a 1-to-1 baking mix for the best results!
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give the shrimp their lovely crunch. If you’re in a pinch, regular breadcrumbs can be used, though they won’t be as light and crispy. You can also make your own by toasting slices of bread and crushing them!
Cayenne Pepper: This adds a nice kick! If you prefer less heat, feel free to reduce the amount or omit it completely. Paprika can be a good substitute for color without much spice.
Vegetable Oil: Any neutral oil will work for frying. Canola, sunflower, or peanut oil are great choices. Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying for the best texture!
How Can I Fry Shrimp Without Making a Mess?
Frying can get messy if not done correctly. Here are a few tips to keep your kitchen clean while achieving crispy popcorn shrimp:
- Use a deep skillet or a pot with tall sides to minimize splatter. This helps contain the oil’s mess.
- Fry in small batches. Overcrowding the pan can lower the oil temperature and cause grease splatter.
- Use a slotted spoon to turn and remove the shrimp, allowing excess oil to drip back into the pot.
- After frying, place shrimp on a paper towel-lined plate to soak up any extra oil.
By following these tips, you can enjoy perfectly crispy popcorn shrimp with minimal fuss and mess!
How to Make Crispy Popcorn Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound small shrimp, peeled and deveined (tail off or on as preferred)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil for frying (about 2-3 cups)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
- Cocktail sauce or marinara sauce (for dipping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for preparation and another 15-20 minutes for frying, making the total time around 30-35 minutes. Perfect for a quick appetizer or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp
Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water, then pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the coating stick nicely!
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a shallow bowl, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper until well combined. This mix adds flavor to your shrimp!
3. Beat the Eggs
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until they’re nice and smooth. This will help bind the coating to the shrimp.
4. Prepare the Breadcrumbs
Pour the panko breadcrumbs into another shallow bowl. These will give your shrimp that delightful crunch!
5. Coat the Shrimp
Take each shrimp and first dredge it in the seasoned flour. Shake off any excess. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, letting any extra egg drip back into the bowl. Finally, coat the shrimp evenly with panko breadcrumbs to achieve that crispy exterior.
6. Heat the Oil
In a deep skillet or fryer, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can use a thermometer to check, or drop a small piece of bread into the oil—if it sizzles, it’s ready!
7. Fry the Shrimp
Carefully add the shrimp in batches to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the shrimp and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
8. Finish Up
Repeat the frying process with the remaining shrimp until they’re all cooked and crispy!
9. Serve and Enjoy
Garnish your crispy popcorn shrimp with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges and your choice of cocktail or marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy every crispy bite!
Now you’re all set to make your crispy popcorn shrimp! Enjoy cooking and snacking! 🦐
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely in the fridge overnight or by placing them in a sealed plastic bag under cold water for quicker thawing. Pat them dry before coating to ensure the breading sticks well.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. This will give you a similar texture and taste without the gluten.
What Can I Serve With Crispy Popcorn Shrimp?
This dish pairs beautifully with cocktail sauce, marinara sauce, or even a spicy aioli. You can also serve it with a side of coleslaw, fries, or a fresh salad for a complete meal!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover popcorn shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes to restore their crispiness.
