Golden, crunchy, and irresistibly juicy — these crispy breaded shrimp are a seafood lover’s dream. Coated in seasoned breadcrumbs and fried to perfection, they are paired with two classic dipping sauces: a zesty cocktail sauce and a creamy tartar dip. Whether served as an appetizer or the star of a meal, this dish is always a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe delivers restaurant-quality shrimp in the comfort of your home. The breading is flavorful and crisp, the shrimp remain succulent, and the dual sauces offer a perfect balance of tang and creaminess. It’s quick, easy, and crowd-pleasing — ideal for parties, family dinners, or game day snacks.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on)
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs, beaten
1 cup breadcrumbs or panko
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetable oil for frying

For the dipping sauces:

Cocktail Sauce: 1/4 cup ketchup, 1 tablespoon horseradish, 1 teaspoon lemon juice, a dash of hot sauce
Tartar Sauce: 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon chopped pickles, 1 teaspoon capers, 1/2 teaspoon mustard, squeeze of lemon

directions

Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.
Dredge each shrimp first in the flour, then dip into the eggs, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.
Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 350°F (175°C).
Fry the shrimp in batches for 2–3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Do not overcrowd the pan.
Remove shrimp with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
In separate small bowls, mix the ingredients for the cocktail and tartar sauces.
Serve shrimp hot with both sauces on the side.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Coconut Shrimp: Replace breadcrumbs with shredded coconut for a tropical flair.
Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the breadcrumb mix.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
Baked Option: Bake the shrimp at 425°F (220°C) for 10–12 minutes for a lighter version.
Different Sauces: Try honey mustard, sriracha mayo, or garlic aioli for new flavors.

storage/reheating

Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
To reheat, place shrimp in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 8–10 minutes or until hot and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.
Store sauces in sealed containers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Stir well before serving.

FAQs

What size shrimp is best for breading?

Large shrimp (16/20 count per pound) are ideal, as they are meaty and cook quickly without becoming rubbery.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can bread the shrimp a few hours ahead and refrigerate them. Fry just before serving for best results.

Is panko better than regular breadcrumbs?

Panko yields a lighter, crunchier texture, while traditional breadcrumbs offer a denser coating. Both work well.

How do I prevent the breading from falling off?

Pat the shrimp dry, use a proper breading technique, and avoid overcrowding in the fryer.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, but ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before breading.

What oil is best for frying shrimp?

Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are good choices due to their high smoke points.

Are there healthier cooking methods?

Yes, baking or air frying the shrimp are healthier alternatives that still deliver a crisp texture.

How do I know when the shrimp are done?

They should be golden brown, and the shrimp inside should be opaque and firm.

Can I use this breading for other seafood?

Absolutely. This method works well for scallops, fish fillets, or calamari.

What sides go well with breaded shrimp?

Coleslaw, fries, corn on the cob, or a light green salad make excellent accompaniments.

Conclusion

Crispy Breaded Shrimp with Dipping Sauces is a versatile and delicious dish that’s easy to prepare and guaranteed to please. With crunchy coating, tender shrimp, and bold dipping sauces, it’s the perfect recipe to keep in your repertoire for any occasion.