Crispy Bloomin’ Fried Shrimp is a delicious, golden-fried appetizer featuring tender shrimp coated in a flavorful, crunchy batter. Inspired by Outback Steakhouse, this dish combines bold spices, a light buttermilk marinade, and a crispy panko finish. Served with a creamy, zesty dipping sauce, it delivers the perfect balance of crunch, spice, and tangy goodness in every bite.

Crispy Bloomin’ Fried Shrimp Recipe

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 4

Ingredients

For the Shrimp:

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tail-on)

1 cup buttermilk

1 large egg

1 cup all-purpose flour

½ cup cornstarch

1 tbsp paprika

1 tbsp garlic powder

1 tbsp onion powder

1 tbsp cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)

1 tsp salt

½ tsp black pepper

½ tsp baking powder

1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)

Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Blooming Onion-Style Dipping Sauce:

½ cup mayonnaise

2 tbsp ketchup

1 tbsp prepared horseradish

1 tsp smoked paprika

½ tsp garlic powder

½ tsp onion powder

½ tsp cayenne pepper

½ tsp Worcestershire sauce

1 tbsp lemon juice

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

1. In a bowl, whisk buttermilk and egg together. Add the shrimp and let them soak for about 10 minutes. This helps tenderize the shrimp and allows the batter to stick better.

Step 2: Make the Seasoned Flour Mixture

2. In another large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, and baking powder.

Step 3: Coat the Shrimp

3. Remove shrimp from the buttermilk mixture, letting the excess drip off.

4. Dredge the shrimp in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently so it adheres well.

5. Dip the shrimp back into the buttermilk mixture.

6. Coat them again in the flour mixture, then roll in panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.

Step 4: Fry the Shrimp

7. In a deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).

8. Fry shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan.

9. Remove and drain on a wire rack or paper towels.

Step 5: Prepare the Sauce

10. In a bowl, mix all the dipping sauce ingredients until well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.

11. Let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes to enhance the flavors.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

12. Arrange the crispy shrimp on a platter. Serve immediately with the blooming onion-style dipping sauce and lemon wedges on the side.

Pro Tips for the Best Bloomin’ Fried Shrimp

Double Coating: Using both cornstarch and panko ensures an ultra-crispy texture.
Oil Temperature: Maintain 350°F for even frying. Too low makes shrimp greasy; too high burns the coating.
Marination: Buttermilk tenderizes shrimp and adds flavor—don’t skip it!
Spice Level: Adjust cayenne pepper for heat preference.
Extra Flavor: Add a dash of Old Bay seasoning or Cajun spice for a Southern twist.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with coleslaw, garlic bread, or fries for a complete meal.

Serve over a fresh salad for a lighter option.

Make shrimp sliders by adding them to Hawaiian rolls with slaw and sauce.

This recipe brings restaurant-quality crispy, spicy, and flavorful fried shrimp to your home kitchen. Enjoy your Bloomin’ Fried Shrimp with the perfect crunch and dipping sauce!