When the craving for something crispy and flavorful hits, there’s nothing quite like the satisfying crunch of fried shrimp. Imagine the sound of those delicate morsels sizzling in hot oil as they transform into golden bites of perfection. This Keto Crispy Battered Fried Shrimp recipe is my go-to for a quick and delicious appetizer that won’t derail my low-carb lifestyle. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a mouthwatering dish that’s not only decadent but also incredibly easy to whip up in under 20 minutes.
Whether you’re prepping for a casual get-together or simply need a pick-me-up after a long day, these shrimp deliver on both flavor and texture. Pair them with your favorite keto-friendly dipping sauces, and you’ll have a meal that impresses while keeping your dietary goals intact. Plus, each bite brings a hint of savory paprika and garlic that dances on your palate, making this dish perfectly versatile for any occasion. Ready to dive into a deliciously satisfying twist on a classic? Let’s get started!
Why is Crispy Fried Shrimp a Must-Try?
Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes of prep, you’ll have delicious crispy fried shrimp ready to delight your family or guests.
Flavor Explosion: The savory combination of paprika and garlic powder creates an irresistible flavor that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Keto-Friendly: Enjoy your favorite appetizer without the guilt—these shrimp are low in carbs but high in satisfaction.
Versatile Pairing: Serve them with a variety of keto-friendly dipping sauces like avocado dip for a gourmet touch.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s game night or a casual dinner, these shrimp add a festive flair that can elevate any meal.
Crispy Fried Shrimp Ingredients
For the Shrimp
• Large tail on shrimp (peeled and deveined) – Provides the main protein; essential for the dish’s core flavor. Ensure they are fresh for best results.
• Egg – Acts as a binder and helps achieve a golden crust. You can use a flax egg for a vegan option.
For the Battering
• Almond flour – Acts as the main coating for the shrimp, delivering crunch while keeping the recipe low carb. Substitute with coconut flour for a different flavor.
• Plain unsweetened almond milk – Moistens the batter; a key component for binding. Do not use flavored varieties.
For the Seasoning
• Paprika – Provides flavor and color to the dish. Experiment with smoked paprika for added depth.
• Garlic powder – Adds a hint of savory goodness that enhances the overall taste of the crispy fried shrimp. Feel free to adjust the amount to suit your taste.
• Salt and pepper – Enhances overall flavor; season to preference for a well-balanced bite.
For Frying
• Oil of your choice for frying or air frying – Adds crispiness; essential for cooking. Choose a high smoke point oil like avocado or coconut.
How to Make Crispy Fried Shrimp
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Heat Oil: Begin by heating oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. If you’re using an air fryer, preheat it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Aim for a temperature around 350°F to ensure perfect crispiness.
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Clean Shrimp: While your oil heats, take the shrimp and clean them thoroughly, making sure to keep the tails on. This adds an appealing presentation and makes them easy to dip.
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Mix Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, egg, almond milk, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until you have a smooth batter with no lumps.
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Coat Shrimp: Take each shrimp by the tail and dip it into the batter, ensuring each piece is coated thickly for that irresistible crunch.
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Fry Shrimp: Carefully add the coated shrimp into the hot oil, frying them in batches for 3-5 minutes. Look for a golden brown color and ensure they are fully cooked and opaque inside.
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Repeat: Once the first batch is done, repeat the frying process with the remaining shrimp. Keep an eye on the oil temperature for consistent results.
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Serve Hot: Plate the crispy fried shrimp immediately, serving with your choice of keto-friendly dipping sauces or low carb sides for an appealing presentation.
Optional: For an extra zing, sprinkle a touch of lemon juice over the shrimp just before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Crispy Fried Shrimp
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Temperature Check: Ensure the oil is at least 350°F before frying. This prevents soggy batter, giving you the perfect crispy fried shrimp every time.
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Avoid Overcrowding: Fry shrimp in small batches. Overcrowding the pan lowers the oil temperature, resulting in less crispy seafood.
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Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture. Frozen shrimp can be used, but ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry.
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Flour Alternatives: If you want a different flavor profile, substitute almond flour with coconut flour. This can also change the texture slightly for variety.
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Customize Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to play around with spices. Adding cayenne can give your crispy fried shrimp a delightful kick, or use Italian herbs for a unique twist.
Make Ahead Options
These Keto Crispy Battered Fried Shrimp are perfect for meal prep! You can mix the batter (almond flour, egg, almond milk, spices) and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours to save time on busy weeknights. The shrimp themselves can be coated in the batter and kept in the refrigerator until you’re ready to fry them. This not only helps the flavors meld together but also ensures a crispier result when cooked. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat your oil and fry the shrimp for about 3-5 minutes until golden and delicious. This way, you can enjoy restaurant-quality crispy fried shrimp with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Crispy Fried Shrimp?
Elevate your meal with perfect pairings that enhance the delightful crunch of each shrimp.
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Creamy Avocado Dip: This velvety dip balances the crispy fried shrimp with healthy fats and a refreshing taste.
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Zesty Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch that complements the shrimp’s savory notes perfectly.
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Garlic Herb Cauliflower Rice: Light and fluffy, this low-carb side absorbs the flavors of the shrimp while adding a satisfying bite.
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Keto-Friendly Dipping Sauces: Try sugar-free ketchup, spicy mayo, or a tangy mustard sauce for a delightful burst of flavor with every bite.
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Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the dish, adding a zesty contrast to the rich batter.
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Sparkling Water with Lime: Refreshing and light, this drink cleanses the palate between bites, making every experience even more enjoyable.
Mix and match these options to create an unforgettable dining experience that leaves everyone craving more!
How to Store and Freeze Crispy Fried Shrimp
Room Temperature: Enjoy your crispy fried shrimp fresh from the fryer for the best flavor and texture. Allow to cool, then serve immediately.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To maintain crispiness, reheat in the oven rather than the microwave.
Freezer: If you plan to freeze, place cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months.
Reheating: For the best results, reheat from frozen in an oven at 400°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy, allowing you to enjoy your flavorful crispy fried shrimp again!
Crispy Fried Shrimp Variations
Feel free to get creative with these delightful twists on your crispy fried shrimp!
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Coconut Flour: Swap almond flour with coconut flour for a subtly sweet flavor and a unique texture.
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Spiced Up: Add cayenne pepper to the seasoning for a spicy kick that will leave your taste buds tingling.
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Herbed Crunch: Incorporate Italian herbs like oregano or basil into the batter for a fragrant, flavorful coating.
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Vegan Version: Use a flax egg and substitute shrimp with breaded cauliflower florets for a delicious plant-based option.
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Breading Boost: Experiment by rolling the battered shrimp in crushed pork rinds before frying for an extra crunchy layer.
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Cheesy Twist: Mix in grated Parmesan cheese with the almond flour for a savory, cheesy depth in every bite.
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Lemon Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the batter for a bright, zesty flavor that elevates the dish.
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Seaside Delight: Serve with a side of tangy tartar sauce or a spiced remoulade for dipping for an extra flavor explosion!
Keto Crispy Battered Fried Shrimp Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for large tail-on shrimp that are firm and have a slight sea breeze scent. Fresh shrimp should be free from dark spots or an ammonia-like smell, indicating they are lesser quality. Ideally, choose shrimp that are 16-20 count per pound for optimal juiciness.
How should I store leftover crispy fried shrimp?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep them crispy, avoid microwaving when reheating. Instead, I recommend putting them on a baking sheet and reheating them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, which helps retain their delightful crunch.
Can I freeze cooked crispy fried shrimp?
Yes! To freeze, lay the cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat from frozen in an oven preheated to 400°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
What should I do if my batter is too thick or too thin?
If your batter turns out too thick, add a splash more of the unsweetened almond milk until you achieve a drippable consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, gradually whisk in a bit more almond flour until the right thickness is reached. Aim for a batter that coats the shrimp evenly without dripping excessively.
Can I modify this recipe for dietary restrictions?
Very much so! If you’re looking for a vegan option, replace the egg with a flax egg (mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes to thicken). For those allergic to nuts, almond flour can be swapped with sunflower seed flour, which will provide a different flavor while keeping it gluten-free and keto-friendly.
How can I make these shrimp spicier or add more flavor?
The more the merrier when it comes to flavor! Feel free to add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the batter for a nice kick. You can also try using smoked paprika for a smoky depth or fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to brighten the dish. Experimenting with spices is a fun way to personalize your crispy fried shrimp!
Keto Crispy Fried Shrimp You'll Love in Just 20 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by heating oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. If you're using an air fryer, preheat it according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- While your oil heats, take the shrimp and clean them thoroughly, keeping the tails on for better presentation.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, egg, almond milk, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth.
- Take each shrimp by the tail and dip it into the batter, ensuring each piece is thickly coated.
- Carefully add the coated shrimp into the hot oil, frying in batches for 3-5 minutes until golden brown.
- Once the first batch is done, repeat the frying process with the remaining shrimp, watching the oil temperature.
- Plate the crispy fried shrimp immediately, serving with your choice of keto-friendly dipping sauces.