As I stood in my kitchen, a sweet fragrance wafted through the air, sparking my curiosity and hunger all at once. This is the magic of my Hot Honey Fried Shrimp! Coated in a crispy, spiced shell and bathed in a tantalizing sweet and spicy honey sauce, this dish is not just an appetizer; it’s an experience that draws everyone in. Whipping up these shrimp is a breeze, making them perfect for a quick and impressive meal, and their delightful balance of heat and sweetness makes them an instant crowd-pleaser. Ready to transform your dinner plans? Let’s dive into the deliciousness that awaits!
Why are these shrimp irresistible?
Crispy Texture: The delicate, spiced shell provides a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender shrimp inside.
Flavor Explosion: Enjoy a perfect blend of sweet and spicy, thanks to the delicious hot honey sauce.
Quick & Easy: With straightforward steps, this dish can be ready in under 30 minutes—ideal for busy weeknight dinners!
Versatile Options: Feel free to swap shrimp for chicken tenders or tofu, making it suitable for different dietary preferences.
Impressive Presentation: Serve these vibrant shrimp at your next gathering, and watch them steal the spotlight! If you’re looking for more crowd-pleasing dishes, check out my Hot Honey Cream or Baked Brie Puff.
Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Ingredients
Unleash the flavor with these essential ingredients for making the best Hot Honey Fried Shrimp!
For the Shrimp
• Shrimp – Fresh or thawed frozen shrimp yield tender seafood flavor; pat dry for perfect frying texture.
• Eggs – Acts as a wet binder for the flour mixture; substitute with flax egg or applesauce for a vegan option.
• Milk – Lightens the egg wash for smoother batter; non-dairy milk works well here too.
For the Coating
• All-Purpose Flour – Creates a light, crispy shell; use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free variant.
• Garlic Powder – Adds savory depth; fresh garlic can substitute but alters the cooking process.
• Onion Powder – Boosts overall flavor; optional but greatly enhances the taste.
• Smoked Paprika – Imparts mild smokiness; switch to regular paprika if preferred.
• Cayenne Pepper – Brings the heat without overwhelming; adjust according to spice preferences.
• Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; kosher salt is a wonderful choice.
For the Hot Honey Sauce
• Honey – The star ingredient providing unique sweetness; maple syrup serves as a vegan alternative.
• Hot Sauce – Adds tang and heat, adjust the quantity per your taste; Frank’s RedHot or Sriracha are excellent options.
• Butter – Enriches the sauce’s flavor; consider a dairy-free alternative for vegan diets.
• Apple Cider Vinegar – Balances sweetness in the sauce; white vinegar can substitute if needed.
• Red Pepper Flakes – Offers texture and extra heat; omit for a milder flavor.
For Frying
• Vegetable Oil – Ideal for frying as it can handle high temperatures; canola or peanut oil may also work well.
These ingredients come together to create the delightful Hot Honey Fried Shrimp that your guests will adore!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hot Honey Fried Shrimp
Step 1: Prepare Hot Honey Sauce
In a small saucepan, combine ½ cup of honey, 2-3 tablespoons of hot sauce, 2 tablespoons of butter, 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Heat over medium-low, stirring gently until the butter melts and the mixture is smooth—this will take about 3-5 minutes. Once ready, set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 2: Prep Shrimp
Rinse 1 pound of shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Ensuring the shrimp are dry is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy texture when frying. Take a moment to check for any shell remnants and remove them if necessary to keep your Hot Honey Fried Shrimp delectable.
Step 3: Make Flour Mixture
In a bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper, and a generous pinch of salt and black pepper. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour. This spiced blend will create the crispy coating for your Hot Honey Fried Shrimp.
Step 4: Prepare Egg Wash
In a separate bowl, beat 2 large eggs along with ½ cup of milk until the mixture is smooth. This egg wash will help the flour adhere to the shrimp, creating a delightful crunch when fried. Set it aside next to your flour mixture, ready for the dredging process.
Step 5: Heat Oil
In a deep skillet or a Dutch oven, pour enough vegetable oil to fill about 2 inches deep—approximately 2-3 cups. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to accurately gauge the temperature; the oil is ready when a pinch of the flour mixture sizzles upon contact.
Step 6: Coat Shrimp
Take each shrimp and first dredge it in the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg wash, ensuring it’s well coated before returning it to the flour mixture for a second coating. Repeat this process until all shrimp are well-coated, giving your Hot Honey Fried Shrimp that crunchy texture.
Step 7: Fry Shrimp
Carefully add the coated shrimp to the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Watch closely, as the shrimp cook quickly; once done, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 8: Combine with Sauce
In a large bowl, gently toss the fried shrimp with the hot honey sauce until they are well coated. This step ensures that each bite of your Hot Honey Fried Shrimp is infused with that irresistible sweet and spicy goodness. Adjust the sauce amount to your liking for an extra flavor punch.
Step 9: Serve
Present your Hot Honey Fried Shrimp immediately while they are still warm and crispy. Serve with extra hot honey sauce on the side for dipping, and enjoy this flavorful dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends! Pair with sides like coleslaw or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Make Ahead Options
These Hot Honey Fried Shrimp are perfect for meal prep fans looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the hot honey sauce up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator for optimal freshness—just reheat it gently before serving to preserve its delightful flavor. Additionally, you can coat the shrimp in the flour mixture and store them in an airtight container for up to 24 hours in the fridge; this helps maintain their crispy texture. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply fry the shrimp as directed, toss them in the sauce, and serve for an enticing meal that feels fresh and delicious!
Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Variations
Feel free to add your own twist to this already amazing dish and make it your own!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with a dairy-free alternative, like coconut oil, keeping the sauce rich and flavorful.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour for the coating to ensure everyone can enjoy these crispy shrimp.
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Chicken Tenders: Swap shrimp for chicken tenders for a heartier twist; adjust cooking time to ensure they’re fully cooked.
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Spicy Hot Sauce: Experiment with different hot sauces like sriracha or chipotle for a unique flavor profile; the kick can be tailored to your heat preference.
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Extra Crunch: For added texture, incorporate panko breadcrumbs in the flour mixture. This yields an even crispier coating that’s hard to resist!
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Fresh Herbs: Toss in some finely chopped cilantro or scallions into the hot honey sauce for a fresh, vibrant flavor lift. Each bite will be a herbaceous delight.
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Maple Sweetness: Substitute honey with pure maple syrup for a different sweetness that harmonizes beautifully with spicy undertones.
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Try Tacos: Load these crispy shrimp into taco shells with crunchy slaw and avocado for a fun meal option; perfect for casual gatherings. If you loved this, don’t forget to check out my Honey Chili Smashed Sweet Potatoes as an excellent side!
How to Store and Freeze Hot Honey Fried Shrimp
Fridge: Store any leftover Hot Honey Fried Shrimp in an airtight container for up to 1-2 days. To keep them crispy, reheat in the oven rather than the microwave.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the fried shrimp before tossing them in the hot honey sauce. Lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat frozen shrimp in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 12-15 minutes, or until heated through. Toss them with freshly made hot honey sauce before serving for a delightful heat and flavor boost.
Tip: Always pat shrimp dry before cooking to achieve optimal crispiness and enjoy every flavorful bite!
Tips for the Best Hot Honey Fried Shrimp
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Dry Shrimp Thoroughly: Ensure shrimp are completely dried before coating for that perfect crispy texture. Excess moisture can lead to sogginess when frying.
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Monitor Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to keep the oil at 350°F (175°C). Cooking at the right temperature prevents greasy shrimp and ensures they fry perfectly.
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Avoid Overcrowding: Fry shrimp in small batches; overcrowding drops the oil temperature and results in uneven cooking. Give each shrimp room to crisp up!
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Customize Spice Levels: Adjust cayenne pepper and hot sauce based on your family’s preferences. Start with less heat and add more to the hot honey sauce until satisfied.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh shrimp and high-quality honey to enhance the overall flavor of your Hot Honey Fried Shrimp, making each bite unforgettable!
What to Serve with Hot Honey Fried Shrimp
Bring your culinary adventure to life with vibrant pairings that enhance the excitement of this flavorful dish!
- Crisp Coleslaw: This crunchy, tangy salad balances the shrimp’s sweetness, adding a refreshing crunch that complements every bite.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Warm, buttery breadsticks provide a satisfying texture contrast and are perfect for dipping into any extra hot honey sauce.
- Zesty Cucumber Salad: Light and fresh, this salad offers a cool contrast. Tossed with lime and mint, it’s a vibrant accompaniment that brightens the meal!
Pair with a chilled glass of sparkling lemonade for a delightful drink that further elevates the dining experience. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a lively gathering, these sides will surely impress!
Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! Fresh or thawed frozen shrimp provides the juiciest meat for Hot Honey Fried Shrimp. If you opt for frozen, make sure to thaw and thoroughly dry them before cooking to achieve that perfect crispiness when frying.
How should I store leftover Hot Honey Fried Shrimp?
To maintain that irresistible crunch, store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1-2 days. When reheating, I highly recommend using the oven to get them crispy again. Simply preheat to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Can I freeze Hot Honey Fried Shrimp?
Yes! For longer storage, freeze the fried shrimp before drenching them in the hot honey sauce. Spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 12-15 minutes before tossing in the hot honey sauce.
What if my Hot Honey Fried Shrimp turn out soggy?
No need to worry! If your shrimp lose their crispiness, it’s often due to excess moisture. Ensure your shrimp are completely dry before coating and frying. Additionally, make sure the oil is at the correct temperature (350°F/175°C) before adding the shrimp to avoid sogginess.
Are Hot Honey Fried Shrimp safe for people with food allergies?
Great question! This recipe contains common allergens like shrimp, eggs, and milk. If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, consider using egg substitutes like flax eggs and non-dairy milk. Always check labels on sauces and honey to ensure they’re allergy-friendly.
Hot Honey Fried Shrimp That'll Spice Up Your Dinner Game
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small saucepan, combine honey, hot sauce, butter, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Heat over medium-low, stirring gently until the butter melts and the mixture is smooth, about 3-5 minutes.
- Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and milk until smooth.
- In a deep skillet, pour enough vegetable oil to fill about 2 inches deep. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Dredge each shrimp in the seasoned flour mixture, dip in egg wash, then coat in flour again.
- Carefully fry the shrimp in batches for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- In a large bowl, gently toss fried shrimp with the hot honey sauce until well coated.
- Serve immediately while warm and crispy, with extra sauce on the side.
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