Popcorn Shrimp Recipe

Prepare shrimp

Pat the shrimp very dry with paper towels. Trim any remaining tails or veins so each piece is uniform (about 1 to 1.5 inches each).

Marinate

In a bowl, whisk buttermilk, hot sauce, 3 tsp salt, and 1 tsp black pepper. Add shrimp and toss to coat. Refrigerate for 15–30 minutes. This tenderizes and flavors the shrimp and helps the breading stick.

Set up station

Arrange three shallow bowls or wide plates: (1) flour mix — whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper; (2) wet dredge — beat eggs with 2 tbs milk until combined; (3) coating — place panko and optional grated Parmesan in the third bowl and gently mix.

Coat shrimp

Working in small batches, remove shrimp from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Dredge each shrimp in the flour mixture, shaking off excess, dip into the egg wash, then press into the panko so breadcrumbs adhere well. Place breaded shrimp on a wire rack and let rest 5–10 minutes to set the coating. Repeat until all shrimp are breaded.

Heat oil

In a heavy-bottomed skillet or shallow pot, add enough oil to reach about 1 to 1.5 inches deep (approx. 1 cup for a small skillet). Heat over medium-high to reach 350°F (175°C). If you don't have a thermometer, test with a small breadcrumb: it should sizzle and brown in about 30–45 seconds.

Fry shrimp

Fry shrimp in a single layer in batches (do not overcrowd) for 1.5–2.5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon or spider to transfer to a paper towel-lined plate or wire rack. Maintain oil temperature between 325–350°F by adjusting heat and allowing oil to recover between batches.

Season & finish

While still hot, lightly sprinkle finished shrimp with a pinch of salt and chopped parsley if using. Serve immediately with lemon wedges.

Make sauce

Whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, hot sauce, lemon juice, and paprika in a small bowl until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning (add more hot sauce or lemon if desired). Chill until ready to serve.