Pan Fried Shrimp are quick and tasty! These little gems are seasoned and cooked until they’re golden and crispy. Perfect for a yummy weeknight dinner!
Cooking shrimp always reminds me of beach days! I love serving them with a squeeze of lemon and some fresh veggies. Delicious and easy, you’ll want to make them again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp work great. If using frozen, make sure to thaw them before cooking. Smaller shrimp can also be used, but they will cook faster, so keep an eye on them!
Olive Oil or Butter: I love the flavor of butter, but olive oil is a healthier option. You could even use a mix of both for richness and taste. Coconut oil can be a fun substitute too if you’re looking for something different.
Spices: Smoked paprika gives a wonderful depth of flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or chili powder can work as a substitute. Feel free to adjust cayenne according to your heat preference!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for this recipe, but garlic powder can serve in a pinch. Use about 1/4 tsp of garlic powder per clove if needed.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Searing on Shrimp?
Searing shrimp is easier than it sounds! Follow these steps for that perfect golden crust.
- Make sure the shrimp are well-dried. This helps them sear properly rather than steam.
- Use a hot skillet with the oil or butter shimmering. This is key to achieving that nice golden color.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. If needed, cook shrimp in batches to maintain even cooking.
- Cook only until the shrimp are opaque and firm. It takes just a few minutes on each side, so keep an eye on them!
With these tips, your pan fried shrimp will turn out crispy and delicious every time!
How to Make Pan Fried Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off, as preferred)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 5-7 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’re looking at roughly 15-20 minutes to serve up a plate of delicious pan fried shrimp!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by patting the shrimp dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps them get that beautiful, crispy texture. You want them nice and dry!
2. Season the Shrimp:
In a large mixing bowl, toss the shrimp with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if you like it spicy), and dried oregano. Mix well until the shrimp are evenly coated with the seasonings.
3. Heat the Skillet:
Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil or butter. Wait until it gets hot and shimmering; this is when you’re ready to start cooking!
4. Add the Garlic:
Carefully add the minced garlic to the pan. Sauté it for about 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant but not browned. Burnt garlic can turn bitter, so keep an eye on it!
5. Sear the Shrimp:
Now it’s time to add the shrimp. Arrange them in a single layer in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. This helps them sear nicely. Let them cook for about 2 minutes on one side until they turn golden brown.
6. Flip and Finish Cooking:
After 2 minutes, use tongs to flip the shrimp over. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until they are opaque and fully cooked through. They’ll be beautifully golden and delicious!
7. Serve:
Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and transfer them to a serving bowl. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the shrimp when eating.
Enjoy these flavorful pan fried shrimp that are crispy and perfectly seasoned, making a quick and delicious meal or appetizer!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can thaw frozen shrimp overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for about 30 minutes. Pat them dry before seasoning.
How Do I Store Leftover Pan Fried Shrimp?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of oil or butter to help restore moisture and flavor.
Can I Substitute the Spices?
Yes, you can! Feel free to experiment with different spices based on your taste preferences. For example, replace smoked paprika with regular paprika or chili powder. If you like it spicy, try adding more cayenne or red pepper flakes!
What Can I Serve with Pan Fried Shrimp?
These shrimp are versatile! They pair wonderfully with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad. For a low-carb option, serve them with roasted vegetables or in lettuce wraps for a light meal.
