These Buffalo Shrimp are crispy on the outside and perfectly tender on the inside, tossed in a rich and tangy buffalo sauce. The spicy kick combined with the crispy texture makes each bite irresistibly satisfying.
The contrast between the crispiness of the shrimp and the smoothness of the dipping sauce creates a delightful contrast, making this dish the perfect appetizer or main dish for any occasion. You can even customize the spice level based on your preference—add extra heat for those who love spice or keep it mild for a more balanced flavor. These shrimp are bound to be a hit at any gathering!
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
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1/2 cup flour
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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1/2 cup buttermilk
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2 tablespoons butter, melted
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1/4 cup buffalo sauce
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2 tablespoons ranch or blue cheese dressing (optional)
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
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In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
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Dip each shrimp into the buttermilk, then dredge it in the flour mixture, making sure it’s well coated.
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Arrange the shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
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Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the shrimp are golden and crispy.
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While the shrimp bake, mix the melted butter and buffalo sauce in a separate bowl.
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Once the shrimp are done, remove them from the oven and toss them in the buffalo sauce mixture to coat evenly.
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Serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side for dipping (optional).
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 12 minutes | Total Time: 22 minutes
Kcal: 280 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Origins of Buffalo Shrimp
The buffalo sauce, which is the key ingredient that gives buffalo shrimp its signature flavor, originates from Buffalo, New York. The sauce was first created in 1964 at the Anchor Bar in Buffalo, where it was used to coat fried chicken wings. This dish quickly became popular, and buffalo wings were born. As the dish gained popularity, chefs began experimenting with different proteins, and the shrimp version became a beloved twist on the classic buffalo wings. Today, buffalo shrimp is enjoyed in many forms, from crispy fried shrimp to oven-baked versions that are healthier without sacrificing any of the flavor.
The Flavor Profile of Buffalo Shrimp
The appeal of buffalo shrimp lies in the perfect balance of spicy, tangy, and savory flavors. The buffalo sauce, made primarily of hot sauce and butter, adds heat and richness to the shrimp. The butter gives the sauce a velvety texture, while the hot sauce brings a sharp, vinegary zing that cuts through the richness. The shrimp, which are naturally sweet and tender, offer a perfect contrast to the bold sauce. When baked or fried, the shrimp’s crispy exterior adds another layer of texture, making each bite satisfying from start to finish.
Depending on the level of heat you prefer, the buffalo sauce can be adjusted to be milder or spicier. Some people like to add extra ingredients like garlic, honey, or Worcestershire sauce to customize the flavor and provide additional complexity. This flexibility makes buffalo shrimp an adaptable dish that can cater to a wide range of palates, whether you enjoy mild, medium, or extra-hot flavors.
Health Benefits of Buffalo Shrimp
While buffalo shrimp is often seen as a fun and indulgent dish, it can also be a relatively healthy option when prepared correctly. Shrimp itself is low in calories, high in protein, and a good source of important nutrients like selenium, vitamin B12, and iodine. When you bake or grill the shrimp instead of frying them, you significantly reduce the overall fat content, making the dish a lighter choice.
Buffalo sauce, though known for its spice, also provides some health benefits. The capsaicin in hot sauce has been linked to metabolism-boosting effects and may even help with appetite regulation. Additionally, hot sauce contains antioxidants like vitamin A and C, which can contribute to improved immune function. The butter in the sauce adds richness and flavor, but you can always substitute it with healthier alternatives, like olive oil or plant-based butters, to reduce the saturated fat content.
Different Ways to Serve Buffalo Shrimp
Buffalo shrimp can be served in many creative ways, making it a versatile dish for any occasion. Here are a few ideas for how to serve this delicious seafood:
As an appetizer – Buffalo shrimp is the perfect starter for a dinner party or family gathering. Served with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping, it’s a hit that everyone will love. You can also pair it with crunchy celery or carrot sticks to balance out the spiciness.
As a main dish – For a heartier meal, buffalo shrimp can be served over a bed of rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. The heat from the buffalo sauce pairs beautifully with a cool, refreshing salad, especially if you add some creamy dressing to tame the spice. For a low-carb option, consider serving the shrimp over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a healthy twist.
In tacos – Another fun way to enjoy buffalo shrimp is by turning it into a taco filling. Simply warm up some soft corn tortillas and fill them with the crispy shrimp, adding your favorite toppings like avocado, shredded cabbage, cilantro, and a drizzle of extra buffalo sauce. This makes for a casual, flavorful meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or taco night.
As a snack or party food – Buffalo shrimp is a great addition to any party spread. Whether you’re hosting a game night, a barbecue, or a casual gathering with friends, buffalo shrimp will disappear from the table in no time. Serve it with a variety of dips and sauces, such as guacamole, salsa, or a tangy yogurt-based dip, to offer different flavor combinations.
Creative Variations of Buffalo Shrimp
Though buffalo shrimp is delicious on its own, there are plenty of ways to experiment with the dish and make it your own. Here are a few variations to try:
Add extra heat – If you like your food with an extra kick, try spicing up the buffalo sauce with additional hot sauce or chili flakes. You can even experiment with different types of hot sauces to find the one that suits your taste best. For an extra spicy kick, try incorporating a little bit of habanero or ghost pepper sauce.
Honey buffalo shrimp – For a touch of sweetness to balance out the heat, you can add honey to your buffalo sauce. The sweet and spicy combination is irresistible and adds a delicious depth of flavor. This variation works especially well when serving the shrimp as an appetizer or snack.
Crispy coconut buffalo shrimp – Add a tropical twist to buffalo shrimp by coating the shrimp in shredded coconut before frying or baking. The crispy coconut coating adds texture and sweetness, which complements the spicy buffalo sauce perfectly. This variation is great for adding a little flair to the traditional buffalo shrimp.
Buffalo shrimp sliders – Another fun twist is to serve buffalo shrimp on small slider buns, creating mini sandwiches that are perfect for parties or gatherings. Add a little lettuce, tomato, and a dollop of ranch dressing to complete the sliders for a delicious bite-sized treat.
Tips for Perfect Buffalo Shrimp
To ensure that your buffalo shrimp turns out perfectly every time, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
1. Don’t overcook the shrimp – Shrimp cook very quickly, and overcooking them can result in tough, rubbery shrimp. Keep an eye on them and remove them from the oven or fryer as soon as they turn golden and crispy.
2. Use fresh shrimp – Fresh shrimp will provide the best flavor and texture. If you use frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture, which can prevent the shrimp from becoming crispy.
3. Coat the shrimp evenly – Whether you’re baking or frying the shrimp, make sure they’re evenly coated in the buffalo sauce to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
4. Experiment with toppings – Don’t be afraid to try different garnishes to enhance the flavor of your buffalo shrimp. Fresh cilantro, green onions, or a squeeze of lime juice can all add a fresh, zesty note that balances out the spice.
Conclusion
Buffalo shrimp is a flavorful, versatile dish that combines heat, tang, and a touch of sweetness. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, main dish, or party snack, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With its easy-to-adjust heat level and ability to be customized with various ingredients and garnishes, buffalo shrimp can be adapted to suit any occasion and personal taste. Whether you enjoy it crispy and fried or lighter and baked, this dish is a fantastic way to enjoy the deliciousness of shrimp in a bold and exciting new way.