Have you ever wondered what makes Walt’s Favorite Shrimp so irresistibly delicious? That golden-brown crunch, the perfectly seasoned coating, and the juicy, tender bite—it’s a seafood lover’s dream! Whether you’re a fan of restaurant-style shrimp or looking to recreate that Southern-style crisp at home, this recipe brings you the secret behind its fame.
With a light and crispy batter that locks in flavor and a savory dipping sauce to complement every bite, this dish is more than just shrimp—it’s a crunchy, flavorful experience. Perfect for casual dinners, special occasions, or whenever you’re craving that signature seafood delight, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
Get ready to uncover the secrets behind this classic seafood dish and learn how to make it just as mouthwatering as the original! 🍤✨
Table of Contents
The Story Behind Walt’s Favorite Shrimp
Ever wondered why this shrimp dish is so famous? Originally inspired by Southern-style fried shrimp, Walt’s Favorite Shrimp has made waves as a signature dish at Red Lobster. Known for its perfectly seasoned, golden-brown coating and tender, juicy interior, it quickly became a seafood favorite.
But what makes this dish truly special? It’s all in the crunchy panko breading, savory seasoning, and expert frying technique that locks in flavor while ensuring a crispy exterior.
Now, let’s dive into how you can recreate this legendary shrimp dish at home!
Key Benefits of Walt’s Favorite Shrimp
Why should you make this shrimp recipe? Here are five compelling reasons:
✅ Crispy Perfection – A light, golden-brown crust that delivers the ultimate crunch.
✅ Juicy & Flavorful – The buttermilk marinade ensures tender, well-seasoned shrimp.
✅ Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and quick prep make it a go-to dish.
✅ Restaurant-Quality at Home – Enjoy the flavors of Red Lobster-inspired shrimp without dining out.
✅ Versatile Serving Options – Perfect as an appetizer, main course, or even in shrimp tacos.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Breading:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
For Frying:
- 2 cups vegetable oil (for deep frying)
For Serving:
- Lemon wedges
- Cocktail sauce or tartar sauce
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Marinate the Shrimp
- In a bowl, whisk together buttermilk, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the shrimp, ensuring they’re fully coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for 20-30 minutes to enhance flavor and tenderness.
2. Prepare the Breading Station
- Set up three bowls:
- Bowl 1: Mix flour and cornstarch.
- Bowl 2: Beat 1 egg (optional, for extra coating).
- Bowl 3: Combine panko breadcrumbs and Old Bay seasoning.
3. Coat the Shrimp
- Remove shrimp from the marinade, letting excess drip off.
- Dredge each shrimp in the flour mixture, dip into the egg wash (if using), and coat thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs.
4. Fry to Perfection
- Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep fryer or heavy skillet.
- Fry shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes until golden-brown and crispy.
- Drain on a wire rack or paper towels.
5. Serve & Enjoy!
- Transfer to a plate, garnish with lemon wedges, and serve with cocktail sauce or tartar sauce.
Pro Tips & Variations
💡 Extra Crunch: Double-dip the shrimp in the buttermilk and panko mixture.
💡 Baking Option: Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway.
💡 Air Fryer Alternative: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
💡 Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture.
Serving Suggestions
🍽 Classic Pairing: Serve with fries or coleslaw for a restaurant-style meal.
🍽 Lighter Option: Pair with a fresh salad or grilled vegetables.
🍽 Taco Twist: Use the shrimp in soft tortillas with slaw and chipotle mayo.
🍽 Rice Bowl: Serve over steamed rice with garlic butter drizzle.
Conclusion
Walt’s Favorite Shrimp isn’t just another seafood dish—it’s an experience! With its crispy texture, bold flavors, and endless serving possibilities, it’s no surprise why this recipe has gained so much fame. Whether you’re making it for a casual dinner or impressing guests, this dish guarantees restaurant-quality results at home.
Now that you know the secrets behind this seafood classic, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and bring this dish to life. Let us know how it turns out—happy cooking! 🍤✨
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before marinating.
What’s the best oil for frying?
Vegetable, canola, or peanut oil work best for a crispy, golden finish.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in an air fryer or oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes to keep them crispy.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap flour for gluten-free flour and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs.
Walt’s Favorite Shrimp
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Breading:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
For Frying:
- 2 cups vegetable oil for deep frying
For Serving:
- Lemon wedges
- Cocktail sauce or tartar sauce
Instructions
Marinate the Shrimp:
- In a bowl, whisk together buttermilk, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the shrimp, ensuring they’re fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for 20-30 minutes.
- Prepare the Breading Station:
Set up three bowls:
- Bowl 1: Mix flour and cornstarch
- Bowl 2: Beat 1 egg (optional)
- Bowl 3: Combine panko breadcrumbs and Old Bay seasoning
Coat the Shrimp:
- Remove shrimp from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Dredge each shrimp in the flour mixture, dip into the egg wash (if using), and coat thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs.
Fry to Perfection:
- Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep fryer or heavy skillet. Fry shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes until golden-brown and crispy. Drain on a wire rack or paper towels.
Serve & Enjoy:
- Transfer shrimp to a plate, garnish with lemon wedges, and serve with cocktail sauce or tartar sauce.
Notes
- Extra Crunch: Double-dip the shrimp in the buttermilk and panko mixture for an even crunchier coating.
- Baking Option: Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Air Fryer Alternative: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for extra heat.
Leave a Reply
There are no reviews yet. Be the first one to write one.