Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Recipe

If you’re craving a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a show-stopping main dish, Hot Honey Fried Shrimp is your new secret weapon! Imagine plump, juicy shrimp coated in a crispy, spicy batter, then showered in a sticky-sweet drizzle of hot honey — every bite is a thrilling mix of crunch, heat, and a hint of sweetness. The best part? This recipe comes together with kitchen staples and packs a bold flavor punch that will leave everyone begging for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk simplicity: each ingredient here plays a pivotal role in creating Hot Honey Fried Shrimp that’s perfectly seasoned, irresistibly crisp, and totally addictive. Pay close attention to the key elements below, and you’ll be rewarded with flavor in every bite.

• Shrimp: Large, peeled, and deveined shrimp with tails on offer the ideal bite and visual appeal.
• Buttermilk: This not only tenderizes the shrimp but also helps the flour coating adhere for extra crunch.
• All-purpose flour: The base of your crispy coating — keeps things light while allowing the spices to shine.
• Paprika: Adds smoky depth and a touch of red color to your fried shrimp.
• Garlic powder: Essential for a well-rounded, savory flavor profile.
• Onion powder: Lends subtle sweetness and complexity to the coating.
• Kosher salt: Enhances every other flavor ingredient beautifully.
• Black pepper: For a mild kick of heat and earthiness.
• Cayenne pepper: Brings the fire! Adjust to your spice preference.
• Vegetable oil: Neutral and perfect for deep frying — heats evenly for consistent crisp results.
• Hot honey: The pièce de résistance, this sweet-spicy glaze elevates your shrimp to unforgettable status.
• Parsley: A generous sprinkle for freshness and a pop of color.

How to Make Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp

Start by giving your shrimp a buttermilk bath. This quick marinade not only tenderizes each juicy piece, but also creates the ideal sticky surface for the seasoned flour to cling to. Toss your shrimp in a bowl, pour over the buttermilk, and let them soak for at least 15 minutes while you prep the next steps. It’s a tiny investment that pays off in tender, flavorful results.

Step 2: Mix Up the Flour with the Seasonings

While the shrimp are marinating, pull together your seasoned flour. In a separate bowl, stir together the all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. This blend is what gives Hot Honey Fried Shrimp its signature bold flavor and beautiful red-golden hue. Make sure everything is evenly distributed before moving on.

Step 3: Dredge the Shrimp

One by one, lift the shrimp from the buttermilk (let excess drip off) and tumble them into the seasoned flour mixture. Coat each piece generously, pressing the flour onto every nook and cranny. Transfer each coated shrimp to a lined baking sheet as you work. This step guarantees every bite will be perfectly crisp and seasoned.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

Grab a heavy pot and pour in about two inches of vegetable oil. Set it over medium heat and patiently bring the temperature to 350°F — a candy or deep-fry thermometer is your best friend here. This “just right” heat ensures you get perfectly crisp shrimp without an oily aftertaste.

Step 5: Fry the Shrimp

When the oil is ready, gently lower the shrimp in batches, being careful not to crowd the pot. Fry for 2-3 minutes, turning as needed, until golden brown and delightfully crunchy. Work in batches, letting the oil return to temp between rounds for the best results. Once fried, set the shrimp on a parchment-lined baking sheet to drain.

Step 6: Drizzle with Hot Honey

Now comes the magic moment! While the shrimp are still hot, drizzle (or toss) them with your favorite hot honey. This transforms the already irresistible fried shrimp into Hot Honey Fried Shrimp you’ll dream about. Don’t be shy — the honey soaks right into that crispy shell, creating the most addictive sweet-and-spicy glaze.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

A final shower of chopped parsley lends a pop of freshness, and now your Hot Honey Fried Shrimp is ready for the spotlight. Serve immediately while piping hot — this is when the texture and flavors truly shine.

How to Serve Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

Garnishes

A sprinkle of bright green parsley or even thinly sliced scallions adds color and freshness, balancing the richness of the fried shrimp and glossy hot honey topping. For a fancy finish, a wedge of fresh lemon on the side never hurts — a squeeze makes every bite sing.

Side Dishes

Pair your Hot Honey Fried Shrimp with simple, cooling sides that complement the spicy-sweet flavors. Creamy coleslaw, buttered corn on the cob, or a crisp mixed greens salad all work beautifully. If you want to lean Southern, serve up fluffy cornbread or some zesty pickles for contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, tuck your shrimp into slider buns with a little slaw for the ultimate party treat. Pile them onto a platter with toothpicks for easy sharing, or serve over warm rice with extra hot honey drizzled on top for a comforting meal. However you present them, Hot Honey Fried Shrimp always turns heads.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you end up with leftover Hot Honey Fried Shrimp, let them cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Aim to enjoy within two days for the best texture and flavor.

Freezing

Fried shrimp can be frozen (before adding hot honey) for longer storage. Arrange cooled shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top freezer bag. This keeps them from sticking and makes it easy to reheat individual portions.

Reheating

To recapture that signature crunch, reheat shrimp in a 375°F oven or air fryer for several minutes until heated through and crispy. Wait to drizzle with hot honey until after reheating for the best results.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked or frozen shrimp?

While you can use frozen shrimp, make sure they’re fully thawed and dry before marinating for the best coating. Avoid pre-cooked shrimp — they’ll turn rubbery after frying.

How spicy is this Hot Honey Fried Shrimp recipe?

The spiciness is nicely balanced between the cayenne in the coating and the heat from the hot honey. If you prefer a milder version, reduce the cayenne pepper, or choose a mellow hot honey for drizzling.

Can I make my own hot honey?

Absolutely! Gently heat your favorite honey with sliced chili peppers or a pinch of red pepper flakes. Let it steep, then strain and drizzle away. Homemade hot honey lets you control the spice level, too.

What oil is best for frying shrimp?

A neutral oil with a high smoke point, like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil, is perfect. This ensures your Hot Honey Fried Shrimp comes out crispy and not greasy.

Can I use gluten-free flour for this recipe?

Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten-free flour blend and follow the recipe as written. The texture will be just as satisfying, and you can enjoy Hot Honey Fried Shrimp gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

If you love putting unforgettable dishes on the table, you owe it to yourself to try Hot Honey Fried Shrimp. The fiery-sweet, crunchy shrimp disappear fast, so make extra and don’t forget to share your spicy creation with someone you love!

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