Can I use larger shrimp instead of small ones?

Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as larger shrimp might need another minute or so to cook through. The flavors will still be fabulous.

Do I need a deep fryer to make popcorn shrimp?

Not at all. A heavy pot or Dutch oven with a few inches of oil works perfectly. Just be careful when frying, and always monitor the oil temperature for the crispiest results.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes, you can! Arrange breaded shrimp on a lined baking sheet, spray lightly with oil, and bake at 425°F for about 8–10 minutes, turning halfway. They’ll be a bit less crispy but still delicious.

What dipping sauces work best with popcorn shrimp?

Classic cocktail sauce, tartar sauce, ranch, honey mustard—you can’t go wrong. Try sriracha mayo for a spicy twist or a cool yogurt dip with herbs for a lighter touch.

Popcorn Shrimp Recipe

Name: Popcorn Shrimp Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 quart vegetable oil, for frying; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 egg; 1/2 cup milk; 1 cup dry breadcrumbs; 1 1/4 teaspoons salt; 1/2 teaspoon dried basil; 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley; 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/8 teaspoon onion powder; 24 uncooked small shrimp, peeled and deveined

Description

Crispy and flavorful popcorn shrimp, perfectly seasoned and fried to golden brown perfection. This crowd-pleasing snack is easy to make at home with simple ingredients, making it ideal for appetizers, snacks, or a fun family meal.

Ingredients

Units Scale

For Frying

1 quart vegetable oil, for frying

Breading Station

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 egg
1/2 cup milk
1 cup dry breadcrumbs

Seasonings

1 1/4 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
1/8 teaspoon onion powder

Shrimp

24 uncooked small shrimp, peeled and deveined

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Instructions

Heat the Oil: In a Dutch oven or deep pot, pour in the vegetable oil and heat over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy to ensure the oil is ready for frying.
Prepare the Breading Station: Set up three shallow bowls. Add the flour to the first bowl. In the second bowl, beat together the egg and milk until thoroughly combined. In the third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, salt, dried basil, dried parsley, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well to evenly distribute the seasonings.
Bread the Shrimp: Working in batches, lightly dredge each shrimp in the flour, coating all sides. Next, dip the shrimp into the egg and milk mixture, letting any excess drip off. Finally, toss the shrimp in the seasoned breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to help the coating adhere. Place the breaded shrimp on a plate, ready for frying.
Fry the Shrimp: Carefully add the breaded shrimp to the preheated oil in batches, ensuring you do not overcrowd the pot. Fry for 3–4 minutes, turning halfway through, until the shrimp are golden brown and the coating is crisp.
Drain and Serve: Once cooked, remove the shrimp using a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate or a cooling rack to drain any excess oil. Allow them to cool slightly before serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, sprinkle the freshly fried shrimp with a pinch of salt or your favorite seasoning blend.
Serve immediately for the crispiest texture.
This recipe can be doubled for a larger crowd—just fry in batches.
Pair with cocktail sauce, tartar sauce, or your favorite dip.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/2 recipe (approx. 12 shrimp)
Calories: 430
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 1250mg
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 2.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 49g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 165mg