When the craving for something bold and exciting strikes, I often find myself reaching for these Hot Honey Fried Shrimp. Picture this: a crunchy, golden coating gives way to tender, juicy shrimp, all drizzled in a luscious sauce that masterfully balances sweetness and spice. This dish is more than just an appetizer; it’s a culinary adventure that turns any meal into a special occasion.
I first whipped up this recipe after a long, busy week, desperately needing something to bring a spark back to my dinner routine. The simple act of frying shrimp transformed my kitchen into a flavor-filled haven. Whether you’re hosting friends or treating yourself to an indulgent dinner, these shrimp deliver satisfaction that even fast food can’t match. Grab your apron and let’s dive into this easy yet impressive dish that promises to be a hit at any gathering!
Why are Hot Honey Fried Shrimp so special?
Crispy Coating: Enjoy a crunch that perfectly contrasts the juicy shrimp inside.
Irresistible Sauce: The sweet and spicy hot honey sauce elevates flavors to new heights.
Quick & Easy: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Crowd-Pleasing: An appetizer that will impress friends and family at any gathering.
Customizable: Adjust the heat or try different protein options for a fresh twist!
Transform your dining experience with this flavorful dish that beats takeout every time.
Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Ingredients
• Gather your essentials to create this mouthwatering dish that’s sure to impress!
For the Shrimp
- Shrimp – Tender, succulent seafood flavor; frozen shrimp can be used, just remember to thaw and dry thoroughly.
- Eggs – Acts as a binder in the flour mixture for extra crunch.
- Milk – Softens the egg mixture for a smoother batter; any milk or plant-based alternative works.
For the Coating
- All-Purpose Flour – Creates a light, crispy shell; gluten-free flour mix is a potential substitute.
- Garlic Powder – Adds savory depth; fresh garlic can be used but adjust according to your taste.
- Onion Powder – Contributes subtle sweetness; avoid fresh onions for this coating.
- Smoked Paprika – Infuses a mild smokiness; regular paprika can be swapped for a different flavor.
- Cayenne Pepper – Provides a clean heat; adjust based on your desired spice level.
- Salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the shrimp.
- Black Pepper – Offers a mild spiciness to the coating.
For Frying
- Vegetable Oil – Used for frying; canola or peanut oil are also great alternatives.
For the Hot Honey Sauce
- Honey – The star ingredient that brings sweetness and shine to the dish.
- Hot Sauce – Introduces heat to the honey sauce; choose from Frank’s, Tabasco, or Sriracha.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness; can be omitted for a dairy-free version.
- Apple Cider Vinegar – Balances sweet and spicy flavors; white vinegar can serve as a substitute.
- Red Pepper Flakes – Optional, but they add a burst of heat; use sparingly for milder taste.
Indulge in the delightful flavors of these Hot Honey Fried Shrimp – a dish that truly celebrates the art of cooking at home!
How to Make Hot Honey Fried Shrimp
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Prepare the Sauce: In a saucepan, heat honey, hot sauce, butter, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes over medium heat. Stir until smooth and well combined, then set aside to cool.
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Rinse the Shrimp: Gently rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy texture.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, combine all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
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Beat the Eggs: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with the milk until smooth. This mixture will help create a deliciously crispy coating.
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Heat the Oil: In a deep pan, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to check the temperature for perfect frying results.
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Dredge the Shrimp: Coat each shrimp in the seasoned flour mixture, dip into the egg wash, and then back into the flour for a double coating. This extra layer ensures a crunchy texture when fried.
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Fry the Shrimp: Carefully add the shrimp to the hot oil in batches. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan for even cooking!
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Toss in Sauce: Once the shrimp are golden, remove them from the oil and immediately toss them in the prepared hot honey sauce until they’re evenly coated.
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Serve Immediately: Plate the hot honey fried shrimp and serve with extra sauce for dipping. Enjoy the blend of sweet and spicy flavors fresh from the fryer!
Optional: Garnish with chopped green onions for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Hot Honey Fried Shrimp
Fridge: Store leftover hot honey fried shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the fried shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can lead to sogginess.
Sauce Storage: Keep any leftover hot honey sauce in the fridge for up to a week, and warm it gently before serving again with your shrimp.
Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Variations
Get ready to unleash your creativity and tailor this dish to your taste buds!
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Spicy Twist: Add more cayenne pepper to the seasoning for an extra kick, or experiment with your favorite hot sauce for varying heat levels.
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Crispy Alternative: Swap out the all-purpose flour for panko breadcrumbs for an even crunchier shell that will have everyone coming back for more.
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make this dish friendly for those with dietary restrictions without sacrificing the amazing flavor.
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Baked Variety: For a healthier version, brush the shrimp with oil and bake instead of frying. They’ll come out golden and delicious without the extra oil.
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Citrus Zing: Incorporate lemon or lime zest into the hot honey sauce for a refreshing citrus note that perfectly complements the sweetness.
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Asian-Inspired: Add soy sauce and sesame oil to the hot honey sauce for an Asian flavor twist, and serve with a side of sesame-ginger slaw.
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Taco Night: Serve the hot honey shrimp in warm corn tortillas topped with avocado, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for a fun taco night.
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Herbal Infusion: Toss in some fresh chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro to the hot honey sauce right before serving for an aromatic finish.
Make Ahead Options
These Hot Honey Fried Shrimp are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the hot honey sauce up to 3 days in advance by simply mixing honey, hot sauce, butter, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes, then storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can also bread the shrimp up to 24 hours ahead of time—just coat them in the seasoned flour mixture and store them in the fridge to maintain their crunch. When you’re ready to serve, heat your oil and fry the shrimp until golden, toss in the sauce, and enjoy the same delicious flavor with minimal effort on busy nights!
Expert Tips for Hot Honey Fried Shrimp
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Dry the Shrimp: Ensure shrimp are thoroughly dried after rinsing; this prevents oil splatter and enhances crispiness during frying.
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Monitor Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to keep oil at 350°F (175°C) for even frying and prevent greasy shrimp.
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Double Dredging: Don’t skip the double coating for the shrimp—this provides an extra crispy texture that’s irresistible in each bite.
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Fry in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan; frying shrimp in small batches ensures they cook evenly and remains crispy.
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Customize Your Heat: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper in the coating or the type of hot sauce in the honey sauce to suit your spice preference.
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Serve Fresh: Enjoy your Hot Honey Fried Shrimp immediately after frying for the best flavor and texture; reheat in the oven if needed.
What to Serve with Hot Honey Fried Shrimp?
Elevate your meal with delightful pairings that perfectly complement the sweet and spicy flavors of your shrimp.
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Crispy Coleslaw:
This crunchy, tangy side adds freshness and crunch that balances the richness of the fried shrimp. A tangy dressing brings a delightful contrast. -
Garlic Butter Rice:
The nutty, buttery flavors of rice envelop the palate and allow the shrimp’s delicious heat to shine. It’s a comforting side that makes every bite satisfying. -
Spicy Corn Salad:
A vibrant, zesty corn salad enhances the dish with sweetness and texture. Fresh herbs and chili-lime dressing brighten the overall meal. -
Sweet Potato Fries:
These crispy veggie fries have a hint of natural sweetness that plays beautifully against the heat of the shrimp. Their texture adds a wonderful crunch. -
Chilled Cucumber Soup:
A refreshing, creamy cucumber soup offers a cool reprieve from the spicy shrimp, making for a well-rounded dining experience. -
Craft Beer:
Pairing your shrimp with a hoppy craft beer or a fruity IPA can create a vibrant contrast that accentuates the flavors in the dish. -
Lemonade or Iced Tea:
A glass of homemade lemonade or iced tea provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the hot honey fried shrimp. Its lightness makes it the perfect drink to cleanse your palate. -
Chocolate Mousse:
For dessert, a silky chocolate mousse offers a rich and indulgent finale to your meal, creating a satisfying ending that contrasts the savory elements beautifully.
Hot Honey Fried Shrimp Recipe FAQs
What kind of shrimp should I use for Hot Honey Fried Shrimp?
Absolutely! You can use fresh or frozen shrimp for this recipe. If opting for frozen shrimp, thaw them completely and make sure to pat them dry thoroughly. This is crucial as moisture can prevent a crispy coating when frying.
How should I store leftover Hot Honey Fried Shrimp?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To keep them crispy, I recommend reheating them in an oven preheated to 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes instead of using a microwave, which can make them soggy.
Can I freeze Hot Honey Fried Shrimp?
Yes, you can! First, arrange the fried shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. After that, transfer the shrimp to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat in the oven to restore some of that crispiness!
How do I adjust the spice level in the hot honey sauce?
To customize the heat, you can adjust the amount of cayenne pepper in the coating or try different brands of hot sauce in the honey mixture. For a milder version, reduce the cayenne or choose a less spicy hot sauce, adding just a dash of crushed red pepper flakes for a kick without overwhelming heat.
What can I substitute for honey if I want a different sweetness?
If you’re looking for alternatives to honey, agave nectar or maple syrup can work well. They won’t give you the exact same flavor, but they’ll provide a nice sweetness. Just keep in mind that the texture of the sauce might slightly change.
Can pets eat Hot Honey Fried Shrimp?
It’s best to avoid giving Hot Honey Fried Shrimp to pets. The spices and honey may not be suitable for them and could potentially upset their stomachs. Plus, fried foods are generally not recommended for pets. Always consult your veterinarian before introducing any new foods!
Hot Honey Fried Shrimp: Crispy, Sweet, and Irresistibly Spicy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a saucepan, heat honey, hot sauce, butter, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes over medium heat. Stir until smooth and well combined, then set aside to cool.
- Gently rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- In a bowl, combine all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with the milk until smooth.
- In a deep pan, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer.
- Coat each shrimp in the seasoned flour mixture, dip into the egg wash, and then back into the flour.
- Carefully add the shrimp to the hot oil in batches. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
- Remove the shrimp from the oil and immediately toss them in the hot honey sauce.
- Plate the hot honey fried shrimp and serve with extra sauce for dipping.