Salt and Pepper Crispy Shrimp

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Salt and Pepper Crispy Shrimp is one of those recipes that feels like a treat but is simple enough to whip up on a weeknight. Juicy shrimp coated in a delicate crispy shell, seasoned with bold cracked pepper, sea salt, and a touch of garlic—this dish hits every flavor note. It’s savory, punchy, and incredibly satisfying whether served as an appetizer or the main event.

The magic lies in the contrast: the crispy crunch of the fried shrimp paired with the zing of fresh scallions and chili peppers makes every bite unforgettable. Served with a wedge of lime or a side of sweet chili sauce, these crispy shrimp don’t just deliver—they impress.

Why You’ll Love This Salt and Pepper Crispy Shrimp

If you love restaurant-style shrimp but want the freshness of homemade, this recipe is your answer. It cooks quickly, requires minimal ingredients, and gives you full control over seasoning. It’s gluten-optional, customizable, and can go from stovetop to table in less than 20 minutes.

This dish also pairs easily with other sides, making it a versatile favorite. Whether you’re hosting friends or treating yourself, the result is crunchy, flavorful shrimp that disappears faster than you’d expect.

What Kind of Shrimp Should I Use?

For best results, use large or jumbo raw shrimp, peeled and deveined. Tail-on adds extra visual appeal and makes them perfect finger food, but it’s not essential. Fresh shrimp are ideal, but frozen and thawed will work too. Just pat them dry thoroughly before frying to get that light, crispy finish.

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Ingredients for the Salt and Pepper Crispy Shrimp

This recipe relies on bold flavors and a light, crunchy coating. While the list is short, each ingredient plays a key role in making these shrimp irresistible.

• Shrimp
  Large or jumbo shrimp are best, peeled and deveined. They cook fast and stay juicy inside the crispy shell.
• Cornstarch
  Creates that ultra-light, crisp coating you’re after. It fries up golden and doesn’t overpower the shrimp.
• Salt
  Sea salt or kosher salt helps bring out the shrimp’s natural sweetness and balances the richness of the fry.
• Black Pepper
  Freshly cracked black pepper adds a spicy aroma and is key to the signature flavor.
• Garlic
  Thinly sliced or minced, it adds a fragrant punch that elevates the whole dish.
• Scallions
  For a touch of freshness and crunch, added at the end for a pop of green.
• Red Chili or Fresno Pepper (optional)
  Adds heat and color. You can adjust based on your spice tolerance.
• Oil for Frying
  Use a neutral high-heat oil like canola, vegetable, or peanut oil for best frying results.

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How To Make the Salt and Pepper Crispy Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Pat your peeled and deveined shrimp completely dry with paper towels. This helps the cornstarch stick and ensures a crispy fry.

Step 2: Coat the Shrimp

Toss the shrimp in cornstarch, salt, and black pepper until they’re well coated. Shake off any excess before frying.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

Heat about 2 inches of oil in a deep skillet or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering—around 350°F.

Step 4: Fry Until Golden

Carefully drop the shrimp into the hot oil in batches, being sure not to overcrowd. Fry for 1–2 minutes per side until crispy and golden. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Step 5: Sauté Aromatics

In a clean skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil and sauté garlic, sliced chili (if using), and scallions until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

Step 6: Toss and Serve

Add the crispy shrimp to the skillet, give them a quick toss to coat with the aromatics, and serve immediately with lime wedges or dipping sauce.

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How to Serve and Store Salt and Pepper Crispy Shrimp

Salt and Pepper Crispy Shrimp is best served hot and fresh. The crispiness fades if they sit too long, so fry just before serving. This recipe serves about 4 as a main or 6–8 as an appetizer.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a hot oven or air fryer to bring back some of the crisp texture, though they won’t be quite as crunchy as fresh.

What to Serve With Salt and Pepper Crispy Shrimp?

Steamed Jasmine Rice

Light and fluffy rice balances out the bold flavor of the shrimp.

Stir-Fried Garlic Noodles

A rich, buttery noodle dish makes this feel like a full takeout-style meal at home.

Sweet Chili Dipping Sauce

Perfect for dunking and adds a sweet-spicy contrast.

Asian Cucumber Salad

Cool, tangy, and refreshing—this side adds a crisp counterpoint.

Coconut Rice

Creamy coconut flavors round out the savory shrimp with a tropical vibe.

Wok-Tossed Vegetables

Quick stir-fried bok choy, bell peppers, or snap peas add color and nutrition.

Crispy Spring Rolls

Keep the crispy theme going with another appetizer-style side.

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Want More Seafood Ideas?

If you’re all about bold seafood flavors, check out these other delicious recipes from the site:

• Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta for a spicy, saucy shrimp fix
• Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque if you’re craving creamy seafood indulgence
• Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna for a cozy, comforting twist on classic flavors
• Pan-Fried Salmon with Garlic Butter Sauce when you want a fast weeknight fish
• Irresistible Grilled Salmon with the Best Seasoning for a light and smoky dinner

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest seafood board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go heavy on the garlic? Skip the chili? Or maybe you served them in tacos?

I love seeing how you make these recipes your own. Questions welcome too—let’s share tips and ideas.

Explore beautifully curated weeknight meals and snacks on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to dishes for all occasions!

Conclusion

Salt and Pepper Crispy Shrimp delivers a satisfying crunch with bold flavor in every bite. With a short prep time and pantry-friendly ingredients, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make again and again. Whether you serve it as a party appetizer or dinner centerpiece, this dish brings restaurant-style flavor straight to your kitchen.

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