Fried Shrimp Basket recipe served on a plate, by Pekin the Chef
Aug 04 2026
RestaurantsJimmy Buffett's MargaritavilleFried Shrimp Basket Recipe

Fried Shrimp Basket Recipe

Time1h
Serves4

Golden fried shrimp served with French fries and our house-made cocktail sauce

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Ingredients

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Shrimp

Method

Prep the Shrimp

  1. 1

    Prepare the Shrimp

    In a bowl, combine the buttermilk, eggs, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Whisk until smooth. Add the shrimp to the mixture and marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.

  2. 2

    Set Up Breading Station

    In three separate shallow bowls, place flour in the first, the cornstarch in the second, and the breadcrumbs in the third. This will be your breading station.

Fry the Shrimp

  1. 3

    Bread the Shrimp

    Remove shrimp from the buttermilk marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off. Dredge each shrimp first in flour, then dip in cornstarch, and finally coat with breadcrumbs. Set aside on a plate.

  2. 4

    Heat Oil

    In a large pot or deep fryer, heat oil to 350°F (175°C).

  3. 5

    Fry the Shrimp

    Carefully add breaded shrimp to the hot oil in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Prepare French Fries

  1. 6

    Cook the Fries

    If using frozen fries, cook them according to package instructions. If frying, heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry the fries until golden and crispy, about 4-6 minutes. Drain on paper towels and season with salt.

Make Cocktail Sauce

  1. 7

    Combine Ingredients

    In a small bowl, mix together ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and salt to taste. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Serve

  1. 8

    Plate the Dish

    Serve the golden fried shrimp alongside a generous portion of French fries. Serve with the house-made cocktail sauce for dipping.

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