This crispy fried shrimp burger is a delicious treat. It features juicy shrimp coated in a crunchy batter, all nestled in a soft bun with your favorite toppings.
It’s so fun to make, and biting into that crunchy shrimp is the best part! I love adding some spicy mayo and crunchy slaw to give it that extra kick. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Medium shrimp work best, but feel free to use large shrimp if you like a bigger bite. If you can’t find fresh, frozen shrimp will do; just make sure they are fully thawed before cooking.
Old Bay Seasoning: This classic seasoning gives great flavor, but if you don’t have it, you can use Cajun seasoning or a mix of paprika, celery salt, and black pepper as a substitute.
Buttermilk: If you’re out of buttermilk, simply mix regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it rest for a few minutes, and you’ll have a good substitute.
Cornmeal: Cornmeal adds a fantastic crunch! You can swap it with breadcrumbs for a different texture, or use almond flour for a gluten-free option.
Vegetable Oil: Any neutral oil like canola or peanut works for frying. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try air frying the shrimp instead!
What’s the Best Technique for Frying Shrimp to Achieve Crispiness?
Frying shrimp is all about method! Here’s how to get that perfect crunch:
- Ensure your oil is at the right temperature (350°F). Too cool and your shrimp will absorb oil; too hot and they’ll burn.
- Coat shrimp properly by dipping them first in dry ingredients, then the wet, and back to dry. This double-breading creates a better crispy layer.
- Fry in batches so the temperature stays consistent. Overcrowding will steam them instead of fry them.
- After frying, place shrimp on paper towels to drain excess oil, keeping them crispy!
These tips will help make your fried shrimp golden and crunchy, just like you’d find at your favorite seafood place! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
How to Make a Crispy Fried Shrimp Burger
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning (or Cajun seasoning)
For the Breading:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornmeal
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Wet Mixture:
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For Assembling the Burger:
- 4 burger buns, toasted
- 4 leaves iceberg lettuce
- 4 slices tomato
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp hot sauce (optional)
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- French fries, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll need an additional few minutes to assemble the burgers. Overall, you’ll be enjoying your delicious shrimp burgers in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by rinsing the shrimp in cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. In a bowl, toss the shrimp with Old Bay seasoning to evenly coat them with flavor. Set aside while you prepare the breading.
2. Set Up Your Breading Stations:
In one shallow bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and eggs until well mixed. This setup will make breading the shrimp easy!
3. Heat the Oil:
In a deep skillet or pot, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can use a thermometer to check, or drop a small piece of bread into the oil; if it bubbles up, it’s ready!
4. Bread the Shrimp:
Take each shrimp and dip it first into the flour mixture to coat, then into the buttermilk-egg mixture, and finally back into the flour mixture to make sure it’s well coated. This double coating is key to getting that perfect crunch!
5. Fry the Shrimp:
Carefully add the shrimp to the hot oil in batches. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan! Fry them for about 2-3 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, remove the shrimp with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. Make the Spicy Mayo:
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, hot sauce (if using), and lemon juice. Mix well to create a zesty, spicy mayo that will add great flavor to your burger.
7. Assemble Your Burger:
Take a toasted burger bun and spread a generous amount of spicy mayo on the bottom. Layer on several pieces of crispy fried shrimp, then add a fresh leaf of iceberg lettuce and a slice of juicy tomato. Finish by placing the top bun on.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Plate your crispy fried shrimp burger alongside some crispy French fries. Dive in and relish the delightful crunch and flavors of your homemade creation!
Enjoy your crunchy, flavorful Crispy Fried Shrimp Burger!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp works perfectly! Just be sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight or by placing them in a sealed plastic bag and submerging in cold water for a quicker thaw. Pat them dry before seasoning and cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, mix 1/2 cup of regular milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to thicken, and you’ll have a suitable substitute for your shrimp batter!
How Do I Store Leftover Shrimp Burgers?
To store leftovers, wrap each assembled burger tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. They will last in the fridge for up to 2 days. For best results, reheat the shrimp in an oven to help retain their crispiness.
What’s the Best Way to Keep the Shrimp Crispy After Cooking?
To keep the shrimp crispy, avoid placing them on a plate directly after frying. Instead, place them on a wire rack over a baking sheet to allow air circulation. Refrain from covering them with foil or plastic, as that will trap steam and make them soggy.
