As the oil bubbles and the aroma of spices fills the kitchen, I can hardly contain my excitement for tonight’s feast—Hot Honey Fried Shrimp. This dish takes humble shrimp to new heights, cloaked in a golden, crunchy coating that shimmers with flavor. It’s not just the delightful contrast of the crispy exterior and tender shrimp that captivates, but the enchanting drizzle of sweet honey and fiery heat that elevates it to a true indulgence. What’s more, this recipe comes together in a flash, making it the ultimate crowd-pleaser for any gathering. Picture yourself serving these beauties at your next dinner party or cozy family night—everyone will be asking for seconds! Ready to dive into a world of sweet and spicy bliss? Let’s get cooking!
Why is Hot Honey Fried Shrimp irresistible?
Bold, Flavorful Combination: Elevate your seafood game with the spicy-sweet duo of hot honey sauce and crispy shrimp.
Quick Prep: This dish comes together in just minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something extraordinary.
Crowd Favorite: Need an appetizer that impresses? These shrimp are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, appealing to shrimp lovers and spice enthusiasts alike.
Endless Versatility: Serve them as an appetizer, toss them in a salad, or make them the star of your dinner plate! Feel free to explore variations by adjusting the spice level to suit your taste.
Ready for more delicious seafood delights? Be sure to try these Honey Garlic Sausage or Chinese Fried Chicken recipes to add variety to your meals!
Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Ingredients
• For this delightful dish, gather your essentials—getting the right ingredients is key!
For the Shrimp
• Large Shrimp – Tender and briny flavor; substitute with thawed frozen shrimp if needed.
For the Coating
• All-Purpose Flour – Creates a crispy coating; use gluten-free flour for gluten-sensitive options.
• Garlic Powder – Enhances the flavor with subtle garlic notes.
• Onion Powder – Adds depth to the coating’s flavor.
• Smoked Paprika – Provides a mild smokiness; regular paprika works if you prefer less smoke.
• Cayenne Pepper – Introduces heat; adjust based on your spice preference.
• Salt – Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
• Black Pepper – Adds a subtle warmth and complexity to the coating.
For the Binding
• Eggs – Acts as a wet binder for the flour coating.
• Milk – Lightens the egg mixture for a smoother batter.
For Frying
• Vegetable Oil – For frying; ensures quick cooking without smoking.
For the Hot Honey Sauce
• Honey – The base for the sauce that provides sweetness and shine.
• Hot Sauce – Adds the perfect heat and tang; pick one according to your heat preference.
• Unsalted Butter – Balances out the sweetness in the sauce and enriches it.
• Apple Cider Vinegar – Contributes a tangy sharpness to the sauce.
• Red Pepper Flakes – Increases spiciness in the sauce; use as desired.
Gather these ingredients, and you’ll be well on your way to creating Hot Honey Fried Shrimp that will leave everyone craving more!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hot Honey Fried Shrimp
Step 1: Prepare Sauce
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine ½ cup of honey, 2 tablespoons of hot sauce, 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Stir the mixture until the butter melts and all ingredients blend harmoniously. Once combined, remove from heat and set aside to cool while you prepare the shrimp.
Step 2: Prep Shrimp
Rinse 1 pound of large shrimp under cold water and then pat them dry using paper towels. Ensuring the shrimp are thoroughly dried will help the crispy coating adhere perfectly. Set the prepared shrimp aside on a plate, ready for their flavorful journey into crunchiness.
Step 3: Season Flour
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. This blend of spices will elevate the coating’s flavor, making your Hot Honey Fried Shrimp truly irresistible.
Step 4: Mix Egg Wash
In a separate bowl, beat 2 eggs with ½ cup of milk until smooth and well combined. This egg wash will act as a binder for the flour coating, ensuring it stays put during frying. Beat until there are no lumps, creating a luscious, velvety mixture perfect for your dipping needs.
Step 5: Heat Oil
In a large heavy-bottomed pan, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a kitchen thermometer for precision to ensure the oil is hot enough for frying, which will produce a beautifully crispy texture on your shrimp.
Step 6: Coat Shrimp
Take each shrimp and dredge it in the seasoned flour, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Then, dip it into the egg wash, allowing any excess to drip off before re-dipping into the flour for a double coating. This technique will create a deliciously crisp outer layer for the Hot Honey Fried Shrimp.
Step 7: Fry
Carefully place the coated shrimp in the hot oil in batches, avoiding overcrowding the pan. Fry for about 2–3 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through for even cooking. Once done, use a slotted spoon to transfer the shrimp to a paper towel-lined plate, allowing the excess oil to drain.
Step 8: Toss in Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine the freshly fried shrimp with the cooled hot honey sauce. Toss gently to ensure each piece is evenly coated in the sweet and spicy glaze. The contrast between the crispy shrimp and the luscious sauce will create an irresistible flavor experience.
Step 9: Serve
Transfer the Hot Honey Fried Shrimp to a serving platter, and drizzle any remaining sauce over them. For an inviting presentation, consider serving them with extra sauce on the side for dipping. This delightful dish makes a perfect appetizer or a fantastic addition to your meal, bringing joy to every gathering!
Tips for the Best Hot Honey Fried Shrimp
• Dry Shrimp Thoroughly: Make sure to pat-dry the shrimp after rinsing; excess moisture can prevent a crisp coating.
• Oil Temperature Matters: Use a thermometer to maintain the ideal frying temperature at 350°F (175°C); too hot will burn, too cold will soggy.
• Coat Twice: For maximum crunchiness, double coat each shrimp by dredging in flour, dipping in egg wash, and coating again in flour.
• Fry in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan while frying; this ensures each shrimp cooks evenly and crisply.
• Customize Heat Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne and hot sauce based on your heat tolerance for the perfect hot honey flavor.
Enjoy your irresistibly delicious Hot Honey Fried Shrimp!
What to Serve with Hot Honey Fried Shrimp
Elevate your dining experience with delightful accompaniments that balance and enhance the bold flavors of this dish.
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Creamy Coleslaw: This crunchy, cool salad offsets the spiciness of the shrimp, providing a refreshing contrast to every bite. It adds a nice texture too!
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Garlic Butter Rice: Silky and fragrant, this rice dish absorbs any extra hot honey sauce, making each mouthful utterly satisfying and flavorful.
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Crispy French Fries: Perfectly golden fries offer a satisfying crunch and are ideal for dipping in the sweet-hot sauce, creating an indulgent pairing.
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Zesty Cucumber Salad: A light, bright salad with cucumbers and herbs balances the richness of the shrimp, providing a burst of freshness on your plate.
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Mango Salsa: This fruity addition brings a sweet twist that complements the shrimp’s heat, enhancing the flavor profile with every bite.
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Chilled Sauvignon Blanc: A glass of this crisp wine pairs wonderfully, cutting through the richness while refreshing the palate between enjoying the fried shrimp.
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Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness harmonizes beautifully with the hot honey glaze, offering a delightful contrast in flavors and textures.
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Lemon Wedges: Freshly squeezed lemon adds a zesty brightness that enhances flavors and cuts through the richness, allowing the shrimp to shine even more.
Serving these alongside Hot Honey Fried Shrimp will create a symphony of flavors and textures that everyone will love!
Make Ahead Options
These Hot Honey Fried Shrimp are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy this flavorful dish with minimal fuss on busy days! You can prep the shrimp and the hot honey sauce up to 24 hours in advance—just store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. To maintain quality, ensure the shrimp are thoroughly dried before coating, and refrigerate the sauce overnight to let the flavors meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, simply coat the shrimp in the seasoned flour and egg wash, fry them until golden brown, and toss them in the prepared hot honey sauce, ensuring a delightful crunch and irresistible glaze that tastes just as delicious as if made fresh!
How to Store and Freeze Hot Honey Fried Shrimp
Fridge: Store any leftover Hot Honey Fried Shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their flavor and texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the fried shrimp. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To enjoy crispy shrimp again, reheat them in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10–15 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.
Serving Suggestions: When ready to serve, toss the reheated shrimp in more hot honey sauce for that fresh-out-of-the-kitchen feel!
Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and tailor it to your preferences while enhancing the flavor experience!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for those avoiding gluten; still crave that crunch!
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Spicy Switch-Up: Experiment with different hot sauces in the honey sauce, from sriracha to chipotle, to discover your ideal heat level.
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Citrusy Twist: Add a teaspoon of lemon or lime zest to the flour mixture for a refreshing citrusy note that brightens the dish.
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Herb-Infused: Mix in dried herbs like oregano or thyme into the breadcrumb coating for an aromatic flavor boost.
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Crispy Coating: Try adding panko breadcrumbs to the seasoned flour for an extra crunchy texture that will make each bite irresistible.
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Sweet Heat: Drizzle extra hot honey over the finished shrimp for a more intense flavor experience, perfect for the super sweet and spicy lovers!
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Delightful Dipping: Serve these shrimp with tangy dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese to create a fun and interactive appetizer spread.
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Creative Sides: Pair with a refreshing cucumber salad or spicy coleslaw to balance the shrimp’s rich flavors, enhancing your meal even further!
For a full flavor-packed experience, consider pairing these shrimp with some Air Fryer Honey on a side or serve them with some comforting Honey Garlic Sausage for a delightful feast!
Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Recipe FAQs
How do I pick the right shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting shrimp, look for large shrimp that are firm and have a nice, briny scent. Avoid shrimp with dark spots or a strong fishy odor, as these can indicate spoilage. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they’re completely thawed before cooking.
How should I store leftover Hot Honey Fried Shrimp?
For best results, store any leftover Hot Honey Fried Shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain their crispy texture, place a paper towel at the bottom of the container to absorb moisture.
Can I freeze Hot Honey Fried Shrimp?
Yes, you can! To freeze, place the fried shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet, then freeze them until solid (about 1-2 hours). Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
What’s the best way to reheat fried shrimp?
To revive the crispy texture, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the shrimp on a baking sheet and reheat for about 10–15 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy. Avoid using a microwave, as this will likely make the shrimp soggy.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Of course! If you’re preparing this dish for guests, be mindful of potential allergies. The shrimp may not be suitable for individuals with shellfish allergies. For gluten-sensitive diners, use gluten-free flour for the coating. Feel free to adjust the heat level in the sauce according to your guests’ spice preferences.
How can I troubleshoot if my shrimp coating isn’t crispy?
This can be a bit tricky, but here are a few tips! First, ensure your shrimp are thoroughly dried before coating to help the batter stick. Maintain the oil temperature at around 350°F (175°C) throughout frying—if it’s too low, the shrimp will soak up oil and become soggy, and if it’s too high, they can burn. Coating the shrimp twice also significantly contributes to their crunchiness!
Hot Honey Fried Shrimp that Elevates Any Meal Experience
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine honey, hot sauce, unsalted butter, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Stir until the butter melts and remove from heat to cool.
- Rinse the large shrimp under cold water, pat dry using paper towels, and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- In a separate bowl, beat eggs with milk until smooth.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large heavy-bottomed pan until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Dredge each shrimp in the seasoned flour, dip into the egg wash, then coat again with flour.
- Place coated shrimp in the hot oil and fry for 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
- In a mixing bowl, combine fried shrimp with the cooled hot honey sauce and toss to coat.
- Serve on a platter, drizzling with additional sauce.
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