Looking for the best Paula Deen Fried Shrimp Recipe? This Paula Deen Fried Shrimp Recipe brings Southern flavor home.

You will love how easy this meal is. Learn how to make Paula Deen Fried Shrimp Recipe today.

This Paula Deen Fried Shrimp Recipe stays crispy and fresh. It is the perfect dish for your family dinner.

What Makes This Recipe Special

This dish has a very bold and salty flavor. The texture is light and extremely crunchy. It tastes like a classic Southern seafood house.

You only need a few simple pantry staples. The prep work is fast and very easy. It takes less than ten minutes to cook.

Everyone loves the golden brown crust on the shrimp. It is a foolproof way to make great seafood.

Equipment List

Large Dutch Oven: This pot holds the hot oil safely. It helps keep a steady frying temperature.
Candy Thermometer: Use this to track the oil heat. It ensures the shrimp do not burn.
Wire Cooling Rack: Place fried shrimp here to stay crispy. It prevents the bottom from getting soggy.

Large Mixing Bowls: Use these for the flour and eggs. They provide plenty of space for coating.
Tongs or Slotted Spoon: These help you move the shrimp safely. They keep your hands away from hot oil.
Paper Towels: These soak up any extra grease quickly. They keep the meal light and clean.

Ingredients You Need for Paula Deen Fried Shrimp Recipe

Jumbo Shrimp: This is the star of the dish. Use fresh or thawed shrimp for best results.
All-Purpose Flour: This creates the base for the crust. It helps the coating stick to the shrimp.
Cornmeal: This adds a nice gritty Southern crunch. It gives the shrimp a beautiful gold color.

Seafood Seasoning: This adds a savory and salty kick. It brings out the natural ocean flavors.
Large Eggs: Eggs act as a glue for breading. They keep the flour stuck to the meat.
Hot Sauce: This adds a tiny bit of vinegary heat. It wakes up the flavor of the batter.

Vegetable Oil: Use this for deep frying the shrimp. It has a high smoke point for safety.
Lemon Wedges: These provide a bright and fresh finish. Squeeze them over the hot shrimp before eating.

How to Assemble

Heat the Oil Fill your Dutch oven with the vegetable oil. Turn the heat to a medium setting.

Wait for the oil to reach 350 degrees. Use your thermometer to check the heat often.
Prepare the Breading Get two large bowls for your dry ingredients. Mix the flour and cornmeal in one bowl.
Add the seafood seasoning to the dry mix. Whisk them until they look very well combined.

Make the Egg Wash Crack the eggs into a second clean bowl. Add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
Beat the eggs until they are very smooth. This liquid will help the flour stick well.
Coat the Shrimp Dip each shrimp into the flour mixture first. Shake off any extra powder from the tail.

Then dip the shrimp into the egg wash. Finally, coat it in the flour once more.
Fry the Shrimp Drop the shrimp into the hot oil carefully. Do not crowd the pot with too many.
Fry them for about two or three minutes. They should look golden brown and very curled.

Drain and Serve Remove the shrimp with your slotted spoon. Place them on a wire rack or paper.
Let the excess oil drip off for a minute. Serve them while they are still very hot.

Recipe Success Tips

➔ Keep your oil at a steady temperature always.

➔ Pat the shrimp dry before you start breading.

➔ Do not overcook the shrimp or they get rubbery.

➔ Use peanut oil for a very nutty flavor.

➔ Bread the shrimp right before you fry them.

➔ Season the flour well for the best taste.

➔ Work in small batches to keep oil hot.

➔ Use fresh oil for the cleanest fried flavor.

➔ Always peel and devein the shrimp before coating.

➔ Let the shrimp rest briefly after breading them.

How To Store Leftover

Place the cold leftovers in an airtight container.
Keep them in the fridge for two days.
Do not use a microwave to reheat them.
The microwave makes the breading very soft and soggy.
Use an air fryer for the best results.
An oven at 350 degrees also works well.
Heat them until they feel crispy and hot again.

Sides & Pairings Suggestions

Serve these shrimp with a side of creamy coleslaw.
French fries are a classic and tasty choice.
You can add a side of hushpuppies too.
Dip the shrimp in spicy cocktail or tartar sauce.

A cold glass of sweet tea fits perfectly.
Fresh corn on the cob is a great match.
These sides make a complete Southern feast for everyone.

Nutritions

Calories: 380 kcal
Protein: 24 g
Fat: 18 g
Carbohydrates: 22 g
Sodium: 850 mg

FAQs about Paula Deen Fried Shrimp Recipe

Q: How do I know when the shrimp are done?

A: The shrimp will turn a bright opaque pink color. The outside crust will be a deep golden brown. They usually float when they are finished cooking.

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

A: Yes, you can use frozen shrimp quite easily. Just make sure to thaw them completely first. Pat them very dry so the breading stays on.

Q: What is the best oil for frying shrimp?

A: Vegetable oil or canola oil works very well. They can handle high heat without burning or smoking. Peanut oil is also a very popular Southern choice.

Q: Can I make this recipe in an air fryer?

A: You can use an air fryer for a healthier version. Spray the breaded shrimp with a little bit of oil. Cook them at 400 degrees for eight minutes.

Final Thoughts

This Paula Deen Fried Shrimp Recipe is a true classic. It brings the taste of the coast to you. The steps are simple enough for any home cook.

Your friends will love the crispy and salty crust. It is a fun meal for any night. Give this recipe a try for your next dinner.

You will see why it is a fan favorite. Happy cooking and enjoy your delicious fried seafood!

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