Hot Honey Fried Shrimp

Hot Honey Fried Shrimp is a bold and irresistible dish that delivers the perfect combination of crispy, golden-fried shrimp tossed in a sweet and spicy hot honey glaze. With its crunchy coating and sticky, flavorful sauce, this dish is a fun and fiery twist on classic Southern fried shrimp, perfect for game day, parties, or a flavorful weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish brings the heat and the sweet in every bite. The shrimp are juicy on the inside, crunchy on the outside, and finished with a generous drizzle of spicy honey that elevates the flavor profile. It’s quick to make, totally addictive, and easy to customize. Whether served as an appetizer, main course, or even in tacos or sliders, Hot Honey Fried Shrimp is a standout crowd-pleaser.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the shrimp:

• Large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Buttermilk (or milk with a splash of lemon juice)
• Hot sauce
• All-purpose flour
• Cornstarch
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Paprika
• Salt and pepper
• Oil for frying

For the hot honey glaze:

• Honey
• Hot sauce (your choice: cayenne-based, sriracha, etc.)
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
• Butter (optional, for richness)

directions

1. In a bowl, whisk buttermilk and hot sauce. Add shrimp and marinate for 15–30 minutes.
2. In another bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, and seasonings.
3. Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
4. Remove shrimp from buttermilk, dredge in the flour mixture, and shake off excess.
5. Fry shrimp in batches for 2–3 minutes until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
6. In a small saucepan, combine honey and hot sauce (and red pepper flakes or butter if using). Warm gently until well blended.
7. Drizzle or toss fried shrimp with the hot honey glaze. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Serves 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Marinate time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Extra Crispy: Double-dip the shrimp in buttermilk and flour mixture before frying.
• Air Fryer Method: Spray breaded shrimp with oil and air fry at 400°F for 8–10 minutes.
• Mild Version: Use less hot sauce in the glaze and omit red pepper flakes.
• Garlic Honey: Infuse honey with garlic for a savory edge.
• Hot Honey Shrimp Tacos: Serve in tortillas with slaw and avocado for a spicy seafood taco.

storage/reheating

Hot Honey Fried Shrimp is best served fresh.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Reheat in a 375°F oven or air fryer for 5–8 minutes to restore crispiness.
Avoid microwaving, as it will make the coating soggy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before marinating.

What’s the best oil for frying?

Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil.

Can I bake instead of fry?

Yes, but the shrimp won’t be as crispy. Bake at 425°F for about 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway.

Is the hot honey glaze very spicy?

It can be, depending on the hot sauce used. Adjust to your heat preference.

Can I make the hot honey ahead of time?

Yes, store in a sealed jar at room temperature for up to a week. Reheat before using.

How do I keep the shrimp crispy after glazing?

Glaze just before serving or serve the hot honey on the side for dipping.

What goes well with hot honey shrimp?

Try rice, coleslaw, cornbread, or a crisp salad to balance the spice.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

It’s not recommended, as they can overcook and turn rubbery during frying.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend for the coating.

How spicy is this dish?

Medium to hot—easy to scale up or down by adjusting the hot sauce and pepper flakes.

Conclusion

Hot Honey Fried Shrimp is the perfect dish when you’re craving bold flavor and irresistible crunch. With its fiery-sweet glaze and golden coating, it’s a memorable twist on classic fried shrimp that’s sure to wow friends, family, or guests. Serve it hot, serve it crispy, and watch it disappear in no time.

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