Buffalo Shrimp

This buffalo shrimp is a delicious and popular appetizer! It is made with crispy shrimp coated in a spicy buffalo sauce. This 20-minute easy-to-make dish is perfect for any occasion, from game days to backyard barbecues. The homemade buffalo sauce is just slightly sweet and spicy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Buffalo shrimp is quick and easy to make.
• This recipe can be made in under 25 minutes, making it a great option for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• It is versatile. Try this Halibut recipe too.
• Just like the Hooters restaurant, but way better!
• Serve as an appetizer, main course, or side dish.
• Enjoy on its own or with a variety of dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing.
• Buffalo shrimp is a combination of two classic flavors: shrimp and buffalo sauce.
• The shrimp is juicy and flavorful, while the buffalo sauce is spicy and tangy.
• This recipe can be made with gluten free flour.
• Check out this Argentinian Shrimp recipe for another great idea!

Ingredients & Substitutes

These are the main ingredients and substitutions for this buffalo shrimp recipe. Scroll down to the recipe card for the full ingredients list and instructions.

Use large peeled and deveined shrimp. Do not use frozen shrimp. If you only have frozen, thaw them completely before making this recipe.

To coat the shrimp, use either regular flour or gluten free flour. I am gluten free, so I always use gluten free flour. I love King Arthur Flour or Bob’s Red Mill for gluten free flour.

Garlic powder and paprika add a little flavor and spice.

In addition, salt and pepper add flavor to the shrimp.

Spray the shrimp with nonstick spray to make them extra crispy. I love avocado oil spray or olive oil spray.

For the buffalo sauce, start with Frank’s hot sauce or another hot sauce.

Unsalted butter makes it extra creamy. Feel free to use dairy free butter if needed. Ghee is another great option.

Honey adds a touch of sweetness. Omit for a spicier flavor.

Garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper add the heat! Feel free to adjust the amounts for a more mild flavor.

Add in salt and pepper to taste.

Taste & Texture

Buffalo shrimp has a unique taste and texture that you will love!

The shrimp is juicy and tender, while the buffalo sauce adds a spicy kick.

The batter gives the shrimp a crispy coating that helps to seal in the juices.

Overall, the flavors are slightly spicy and so flavorful!

How to Make

Step 1

First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.

Step 2

In a shallow bowl, combine the flour (regular or gluten free), garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This will be your coating mixture.

Step 3

Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.

Step 4

Dip each shrimp into the flour mixture, making sure to coat them evenly. Shake off any excess flour.

Step 5

Place the coated shrimp on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Leave a little space between each shrimp to ensure they cook evenly.

Step 6

Lightly spray the shrimp with cooking spray or drizzle with a small amount of olive oil. This will help them become crispy while baking.

Step 7

Bake the shrimp in the preheated oven for about 10 to 12 minutes or until they are cooked through and the coating is crispy. Flip the shrimp halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Step 8

While the shrimp are baking, prepare the Buffalo sauce. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter (or heat olive oil). Stir in the hot sauce, honey, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is well combined and heated through. Adjust the spice level and sweetness to your taste.

Step 9

Once the shrimp are done baking, remove them from the oven. Transfer them to a large bowl.

Step 10

Finally, pour the Buffalo sauce over the baked shrimp and gently toss to coat them evenly.

Expert Tips for Success

Use fresh or thawed-out shrimp. Do not use frozen shrimp directly in this recipe.

To make the shrimp extra crispy, coat them in a thin layer of cornstarch before dredging them in the flour mixture.

Do not overcook the shrimp.

Cooked shrimp will curl slightly and turn opaque. Uncooked shrimp is gray.

Serve the buffalo shrimp with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, or honey mustard sauce.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

Here are some fun ways to switch up the flavors of your buffalo shrimp.

For a sweeter buffalo sauce, add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup.

For a smokier buffalo sauce, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika.

In addition, for a garlicky buffalo sauce, add a teaspoon of minced garlic.

Add some shredded blue cheese to the buffalo sauce for a creamier and more flavorful dish.

Serve the buffalo shrimp with a side of celery and carrots for a healthy and refreshing snack.

How to Serve & Store

Buffalo shrimp can be served immediately after frying or baking.

Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or with a side salad.

I also love this Keto Buffalo Chicken Dip for another delicious appetizer.

They can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.

To reheat, simply bake the shrimp at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 to 6 minutes, or until they are heated through

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Equipment Needed

Baking Pans: These rimmed baking pans are perfect for making buffalo shrimp.r

Check out all of my kitchen favorites!

You May Also Enjoy

• Baked Halibut Recipe
• Fried Lobster Tails
• Swordfish Recipe
• Cod Fish Recipe
• Royal Red Shrimp

If you make this spicy buffalo shrimp recipe, I would really appreciate a review! You can find me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. I would love for you to follow along!  For more ideas, check out these Dinner Recipes.

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