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!

Buffalo shrimp.

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.

Flour in glass mixing bowl.

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.

Large shrimp on pan.

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.

Cooked shrimp on pan.

Step 10

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

Shrimp with hot sauce.

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.

Shrimp with hot sauce.

How to Serve & Store

Buffalo shrimp can be served immediately after frying or baking.

Serve with mashed potatoesroasted 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)

What kind of shrimp should I use?

You can use any type of shrimp for this recipe. However, I recommend using large shrimp so that they are easy to eat.

Do I need to peel and devein the shrimp?

Yes, I recommend peeling and deveining the shrimp before cooking them. This will make them easier to eat and will also remove any impurities.

How long do I fry or bake the shrimp?

Fry the shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through. Bake the shrimp at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 to 12 minutes, or until they are cooked through.

How can I make buffalo shrimp less spicy?

For a less spicy option, omit the cayenne powder and paprika.

Can I make the buffalo sauce without honey?

Sure, however, the buffalo sauce will be more spicy and less sweet.

How do you make homemade buffalo sauce?

Homemade buffalo sauce is made with hot sauce, butter, and seasonings.

What’s the difference between shrimp and prawns?

Prawns are typically larger than shrimp. Shrimp are found in both saltwater and freshwater, while prawns are more commonly found in freshwater or brackish water. Shrimp and prawns have a similar taste and texture, but some people say that prawns are meatier and sweeter.

Shellfish with sauce.

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

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

Buffalo shrimp.

Get the Recipe: Buffalo Shrimp

This buffalo shrimp is an easy and delicious recipe! Perfect for parties, game days, or a quick and easy weeknight meal. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!
5 from 1 vote

Ingredients

For the Shrimp:

For the Buffalo Sauce:

Instructions 

  • First, preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with nonstick spray.
  • In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt and pepper.
  • Rinse the shrimp under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels.
  • Dip each shrimp into the dry mixture, making sure to coat them evenly. Shake off any excess flour.
  • Place the coated shrimp on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Leave a little space between each.
  • Lightly spray the shrimp with nonstick spray or drizzle with a small amount of olive oil.
  • Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until they are cooked through and the coating is crispy. Flip halfway through for even cooking.
  • While the shrimp is baking, make the buffalo sauce. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Stir in the hor sauce, honey, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne, salt and pepper. Cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is well combined and heated through.
  • Once the shirmp is done baking, remove from the oven. Transfer the shrimp to a large bowl.
  • Finally, pour the buffalo sauce over the baked shrimp. Toss to coat evenly. Serve!

Notes

  • Use fresh or fully thawed shrimp.  Do not make directly from frozen.
  • Both all purpose flour and gluten free flour work well.  I used gluten free for these photos.
  • Do not overcook the shrimp.
  • Feel free to adjust the amount of spice in the sauce.
  • Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Calories: 210kcal, Carbohydrates: 19g, Protein: 17g, Fat: 7g, Saturated Fat: 4g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.5g, Monounsaturated Fat: 2g, Trans Fat: 0.2g, Cholesterol: 158mg, Sodium: 1040mg, Potassium: 192mg, Fiber: 1g, Sugar: 5g, Vitamin A: 598IU, Vitamin C: 12mg, Calcium: 69mg, Iron: 1mg

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