There’s nothing quite like the thrill of biting into perfectly crispy shrimp that has been drizzled with a sweet and spicy glaze. I first discovered the magic of Hot Honey Fried Shrimp during a cozy dinner party at home when I decided to mix things up from the usual fare. The combination of that crunch paired with a homemade hot honey sauce took my taste buds on an unforgettable adventure!
This recipe is not only a showstopper, but it’s also incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. Whether you’re looking for a delightful appetizer that will impress your friends or a flavorful dinner option to satisfy your cravings, these golden-brown shrimp have got you covered.
Grab your apron and let’s dive into creating this irresistible dish that balances heat and sweetness in a way that’s sure to become a new favorite in your home!
Why is Hot Honey Fried Shrimp a Must-Try?
Irresistible Flavor: Imagine sinking your teeth into crispy shrimp coated in a sweet and spicy hot honey glaze—it’s a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Effortless Preparation: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and can be whipped up in under 30 minutes, making it a hassle-free choice for any busy cook.
Perfectly Crispy: Utilizing a buttermilk marinade ensures each shrimp is juicy inside while maintaining that perfect crunch outside—who doesn’t love that balanced texture?
Versatile Delight: Serve as a standout appetizer for gatherings, a main course with sides, or even as a snack while binge-watching your favorite shows.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether for casual dinners or festive gatherings, this dish is guaranteed to steal the spotlight and become the star of your dining table!
Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Ingredients
For the Shrimp Marinade
• Shrimp – Large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined; the main star that delivers juicy goodness.
• Buttermilk – Tenderizes the shrimp and adds tanginess; feel free to make homemade if one is not available.
For the Coating
• All-Purpose Flour – Creates the crunchy outer layer; you can substitute with self-rising flour if needed.
• Paprika – Adds a warm color and mild flavor; no substitutions needed here!
• Garlic Powder – Intensifies the flavor; fresh garlic can be swapped, just be mindful of the amount.
• Onion Powder – Deepens the taste; omit if you prefer a simpler flavor profile.
• Kosher Salt – Essential for seasoning; use fine sea salt if kosher is not on hand.
• Black Pepper – Gives a gentle zing; freshly cracked pepper is best for added flavor.
• Cayenne Pepper – Introduces heat; customize the quantity to match your spice tolerance.
For Frying
• Vegetable Oil – Ideal for frying; feel free to use canola or peanut oil as an alternative.
For the Hot Honey Finish
• Hot Honey – This is where the magic happens! Store-bought or homemade, adjust spice levels with red pepper flakes to your liking.
• Parsley – Chopped finely for garnish; adds a fresh touch and vibrant color.
These Hot Honey Fried Shrimp ingredients will ensure you achieve that golden brown, crispiness with a sweet and spicy allure that’s perfect for your next culinary adventure!
How to Make Hot Honey Fried Shrimp
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Marinate: Begin by soaking the shrimp in buttermilk for 15 minutes at room temperature. This helps tenderize the shrimp and infuses a delightful tangy flavor.
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Mix Coating: In a separate bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Give it a good mix until the ingredients are well blended.
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Dredge Shrimp: Take each shrimp and dredge it in the seasoned flour, ensuring a thorough coating. Lay them out on a baking sheet for easy frying.
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Heat Oil: In a deep pot, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F. A thermometer is handy for monitoring the temperature, which is key for that crisp texture.
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Fry: Carefully fry the shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes, or until they turn golden brown. Be sure not to overcrowd the pot; this allows each shrimp to fry evenly.
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Drain and Drizzle: Once fried, drain the shrimp on a lined baking sheet. Drizzle generously with hot honey and sprinkle with chopped parsley for a pop of freshness.
Optional: Serve them immediately with extra hot honey on the side for dipping!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on this delightful recipe and discover new flavors that make it even more irresistible!
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Chicken Strips: Swap shrimp for breaded chicken strips for a family-friendly version that’s just as tasty.
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Tempura Style: Use a tempura batter instead of seasoned flour for a lighter, crispier texture that elevates each bite.
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Sweet Heat: Add a tablespoon of sriracha or your favorite hot sauce to the hot honey for a more intense kick!
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Lime Zest: Incorporate fresh lime zest into the dredging flour for a zesty pop that brightens the dish.
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Tropical Twist: Toss in some coconut flakes in the coating for a hint of sweetness and a bit of crunch.
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Panko Crunch: Substitute standard flour with panko breadcrumbs for an ultra-crispy texture that truly elevates the shrimp.
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Garlic Lovers: Mix fresh minced garlic into the hot honey glaze for a richer, garlicky flavor explosion!
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Spicy Variants: Add more cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the flour coating for shrimp with serious heat, tailored to your temperament.
What to Serve with Hot Honey Fried Shrimp?
Your dinner spread deserves a touch of magic to accompany those crispy, sweet, and spicy delights!
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Creamy Coleslaw: The cool, crunchy texture of coleslaw balances the heat from the shrimp, providing a refreshing contrast that’s hard to resist. This vibrant side brings a mild sweetness that complements the spicy glaze perfectly.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, warm, and buttery, these breadsticks are perfect for soaking up any drizzles of the delicious hot honey. Their garlic flavor creates a savory balance that pairs beautifully with the shrimp’s sweetness.
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Zesty Lime Rice: A citrusy rice dish adds a bright pop of flavor, enhancing the overall palate of your meal with its light, refreshing notes. Lemon or lime zest invigorates every bite, making it a perfect companion to the shrimp’s spice.
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Spicy Mango Salsa: The sweetness of mango with a hint of spice amplifies the flavor of the shrimp! This salsa invites a tropical flair to your table, boosting freshness with every spoonful.
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Crispy Potato Wedges: The fluffy interior and crispy exterior of seasoned potato wedges make for a satisfying texture alongside the shrimp. Their simplicity and comfort create the perfect contrast to the robust flavors.
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Cucumber and Avocado Salad: With its creamy avocado and crisp cucumber, this salad is a light, cool option that balances the spicy hot honey shrimp. Drizzle it with some lime dressing for an added zing!
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Mango Lassi: For a drink that joins forces with the dish, consider a mango lassi! Its creaminess and sweetness can counteract the heat of the shrimp, making it a refreshing addition to your meal.
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Chocolate Lava Cake: Treat yourself and your guests to a delightful dessert after the meal! The rich, melty center of a chocolate lava cake satisfies any sweet tooth, creating a beautiful and indulgent end to an unforgettable dining experience.
Serve your hot honey fried shrimp alongside these pairings for a well-rounded meal that dazzles the senses!
Storage Tips for Hot Honey Fried Shrimp
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Room Temperature: It’s best to enjoy your hot honey fried shrimp immediately after frying. If left out, do not exceed more than 2 hours at room temperature to ensure food safety.
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. This keeps the shrimp fresh and ready for reheating.
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Freezer: If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the shrimp for up to 2 months. Make sure to place them in a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn.
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Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, reheat the hot honey fried shrimp in the oven or air fryer at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to retain their crispy texture. Avoid using the microwave, as this can make them soggy.
Make Ahead Options
These Hot Honey Fried Shrimp are ideal for meal prep, allowing you to impress guests or whip up a delicious dinner with ease! You can marinate the shrimp in buttermilk up to 24 hours in advance to enhance flavor and tenderness. Additionally, you can prepare the seasoned flour mixture up to 3 days ahead of time; just store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to cook, simply dredge the marinated shrimp in the prepped flour, heat the oil, and fry them for that perfect golden-brown crunch. This makes it a breeze to have restaurant-quality shrimp ready to serve without the last-minute hustle!
Expert Tips for Hot Honey Fried Shrimp
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Oil Temperature Matters: Always ensure your frying oil is at a consistent 350°F for optimal crispiness—too low will lead to soggy shrimp, while too high can burn your coating.
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Don’t Overcrowd: Fry shrimp in small batches to maintain proper oil temperature and achieve even cooking. Crowding the pot leads to steaming instead of frying.
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Perfect Dredging: Make sure to coat each shrimp thoroughly with the seasoned flour. A well-coated shrimp will have a satisfying crunch and hold on to the hot honey better.
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Marinate Wisely: Let the shrimp soak in buttermilk for the full 15 minutes. This step is crucial to tenderizing the shrimp and enhancing the flavor profile.
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Reheating Tips: If you have leftovers, reheat them in the oven or air fryer for that fresh-out-of-the-fryer crispiness. Avoid the microwave to prevent sogginess.
These handy tips will help you create the best Hot Honey Fried Shrimp that will wow anyone at your table!
Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Recipe FAQs
What kind of shrimp should I use for the Hot Honey Fried Shrimp?
I recommend using large raw shrimp that are peeled and deveined for the best results. Fresh shrimp is ideal, but if frozen is your only option, just be sure to thaw them completely before marinating.
How should I store leftovers from the Hot Honey Fried Shrimp?
After frying, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. If you want to maintain their crispiness, reheat in the oven or air fryer rather than the microwave, which can lead to sogginess.
Can I freeze the Hot Honey Fried Shrimp?
Absolutely! You can freeze the shrimp for up to 2 months. First, allow the fried shrimp to cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to freeze for a few hours. Once firm, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, ensuring you remove as much air as possible before sealing.
Why didn’t my Hot Honey Fried Shrimp turn out crispy?
A common issue could be related to oil temperature. Ensure that your frying oil is consistently at 350°F. If it’s too low, the shrimp may absorb excess oil and become soggy. Also, avoid overcrowding the pot, as this can lower the oil temperature and lead to steaming instead of frying.
How do I make homemade hot honey for my shrimp?
Making homemade hot honey is super simple! Start with 1 cup of honey and heat it gently in a saucepan over low heat. Add 1-2 teaspoons of crushed red pepper flakes, adjusting for your preferred spice level. Stir it well and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. Then, strain the mixture to remove the flakes, and it’s ready for drizzling on your hot honey fried shrimp!
Can I adjust the spice level in the Hot Honey Fried Shrimp recipe?
Very much so! If you’re sensitive to heat, you can reduce the amount of cayenne pepper in the coating. Additionally, for the hot honey, simply tweak the amount of crushed red pepper flakes used when making it. If you prefer it spicier, feel free to add more!
Savor Hot Honey Fried Shrimp for a Sweet & Spicy Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Soak the shrimp in buttermilk for 15 minutes at room temperature.
- In a separate bowl, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- Dredge each shrimp in the seasoned flour and lay on a baking sheet.
- Heat 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pot to 350°F.
- Fry the shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
- Drain the fried shrimp on a lined baking sheet.
- Drizzle generously with hot honey and sprinkle with chopped parsley.