When the sun starts to set and the aroma of crispy shrimp fills the air, you know it’s a moment worth savoring. I first discovered the joy of butterfly shrimp on a cozy Friday night when my friends popped over for a casual gathering. What began as a simple dinner choice quickly transformed into a delightful culinary experience that had everyone reaching for seconds.
The beauty of this butterfly shrimp lies not just in its golden, crunchy coating—it’s about the layers of flavor that emerge from that panko crust and a hint of Old Bay seasoning. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch followed by the tender sweetness of the shrimp, making them a delectable choice for any occasion, whether it’s a relaxed family dinner or a lively game night with friends.
Ready to impress your loved ones with a dish that’s both easy and exquisite? Let’s dive into the step-by-step guide to creating this irresistible butterfly shrimp, perfect for waving goodbye to boring fast food!
Why love this Butterfly Shrimp recipe?
Crispy texture: Enjoy a delightful crunch with every bite, thanks to the perfect blend of panko breadcrumbs and seasoning!
Flavor explosion: The addition of Old Bay seasoning and fresh lemon zest brings a zesty twist that elevates the taste to new heights.
Easy preparation: With simple steps and minimal ingredients, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels, making it an approachable option for your home cooking.
Versatile dining: Serve them as an appetizer, a main dish, or even atop a salad for a fresh twist—these butterfly shrimp fit seamlessly into any meal.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether it’s an intimate family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish guarantees compliments and satisfied smiles.
For guidance on effortless shrimp recipes that impress, be sure to check out our Easy Shrimp Scampi!
Butterfly Shrimp Ingredients
For the Shrimp
• 1 pound large raw shrimp – use peeled and deveined shrimp for a simple prep.
• 1 teaspoon Morton kosher salt – enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper – adds a subtle warmth to balance flavors.
For Dredging
• ½ cup all-purpose flour – creates a base that helps the coating stick beautifully.
• 2 large eggs – binds the breadcrumbs to the shrimp, ensuring a crispy texture.
For the Coating
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs – offers a light and crunchy finish, perfect for butterfly shrimp.
• 2 tablespoons Old Bay seafood seasoning – infuses your dish with iconic coastal flavors.
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest – brightens the overall taste with zesty freshness.
• 1 tablespoon fresh minced parsley – adds a pop of color and a hint of herbal flavor.
For Cooking
• Oil, for frying – choose a high smoke point oil, like vegetable or canola, for best results.
• Fresh lemon wedges, for serving – serve alongside to squeeze over the shrimp for an added zing.
Now you’re all set to create delicious butterfly shrimp that will make your meal memorable! Enjoy the crispy goodness!
How to Make Butterfly Shrimp
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Butterfly the shrimp by slicing along the back where the black vein was, cutting halfway through. Open up and flatten the shrimp along this cut. Pat them dry with a paper towel for a perfect texture.
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Season the butterflied shrimp with salt and pepper. This simple step helps enhance their sweet, natural flavor and prepares them for the coating.
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Measure the flour into a small bowl. This step is vital for dredging, as it creates a base that ensures your coating adheres beautifully to the shrimp.
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Beat the eggs in another bowl until fully mixed. This egg wash helps the breadcrumbs stick and contributes to that irresistibly crispy finish.
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Mix the panko breadcrumbs, Old Bay seasoning, lemon zest, and minced parsley in a third bowl. This flavorful coating will provide that crunchy, zesty layer that makes these shrimp sing!
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Dredge the butterflied shrimp in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip the body of the shrimp in the egg, avoiding the tail. Finally, roll them in the panko mixture, pressing lightly to coat. Place the coated shrimp on a plate and repeat with the remaining shrimp.
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Heat an inch of oil in a large Dutch oven over medium to medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F. Cook a few shrimp at a time for 2-4 minutes until golden brown, flipping them every minute for even cooking. Transfer the cooked shrimp to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate and continue cooking in batches.
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Serve the shrimp hot, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for squeezing. This bright burst of flavor will elevate your dish even more!
Optional: Serve with a side of homemade tartar sauce for an extra delicious touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Butterfly Shrimp
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Pat Dry: Ensure your shrimp are fully dry before dredging to prevent a soggy coating and achieve that perfect crisp.
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Heat Check: Use a thermometer to gauge the oil temperature; too hot can burn the breadcrumbs, while too cool will result in greasy shrimp.
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Batch Cooking: Don’t overcrowd the pan; fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature and get the crispiest butterfly shrimp.
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Flavor Boost: Consider marinating shrimp in lemon juice or garlic before breading for an extra layer of flavor.
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Leftover Storage: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container and reheat in an oven to retain the crunch.
How to Store and Freeze Butterfly Shrimp
Fridge: Store cooked butterfly shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness, avoiding the microwave which can make them soggy.
Freezer: If you want to freeze your butterfly shrimp, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to flash freeze. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag after a few hours and enjoy within 2-3 months.
Reheating: For best results, reheat the frozen shrimp in the oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
Make Ahead Options
These butterfly shrimp are fantastic for meal prep, allowing busy cooks to enjoy a delightful seafood dish any night of the week! You can prepare the shrimp by butterflying and seasoning them up to 24 hours in advance; just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their fresh flavor. For the coating, mix the panko, Old Bay seasoning, lemon zest, and parsley in advance and keep it in an airtight container as well. When you’re ready to enjoy your shrimp, simply dredge them in flour, dip in the egg, coat with the breadcrumb mixture, and fry them for quick, restaurant-quality results that are just as delicious as fresh!
What to Serve with Butterfly Shrimp?
To create a delightful dining experience that complements the crispy crunch of your butterfly shrimp, consider these tasty sides.
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Crispy French Fries: The classic pairing of crispy fries enhances the shrimp’s crunchy texture, making it a true comfort food combo.
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Coleslaw: A refreshing and tangy slaw adds a crunchy and creamy element, perfectly balancing the savory shrimp.
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Garlic Butter Rice: This rich and buttery rice provides a luxurious side that soaks up the shrimp’s juices beautifully, offering every bite a burst of flavor.
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Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds a touch of freshness and crunch, while its earthy flavor complements the savory shrimp perfectly.
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Zucchini Noodles: For a light and healthy option, zucchini noodles tossed with olive oil and garlic create a fun, low-carb counterpart that pairs wonderfully.
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Tart Tartar Sauce: A heavenly homemade tartar sauce brings a creamy and zesty note that elevates the shrimp’s taste, making each bite unforgettable.
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Lemonade or Iced Tea: A refreshing drink like lemonade or iced tea cuts through the richness of the shrimp, making your meal feel even more refreshing and bright.
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Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a light and airy chocolate mousse provides a delightful contrast to the savory shrimp, leaving everyone with a sweet finish.
Butterfly Shrimp Variations
When you’re ready to take your butterfly shrimp to the next level, these delightful twists will inspire your culinary creativity!
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Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free panko for a tasty alternative.
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Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the panko mixture for an exciting heat that’s perfect for spice lovers.
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Italian Twist: Mix Italian seasoning or grated Parmesan cheese into the panko for a savory twist that offers an aromatic flavor profile.
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Coconut Coating: Blend panko breadcrumbs with unsweetened shredded coconut for a tropical flair that pairs beautifully with shrimp.
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Herbaceous Boost: Substitute fresh parsley with chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for a fresh and vibrant flavor kick.
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Baked Version: For a healthier take, spray the coated shrimp with cooking spray and bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway until golden.
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Creamy Dip: Serve with a zesty avocado lime dip or spicy remoulade to elevate the dish further with a creamy texture and tangy taste.
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Zesty Citrus: Incorporate lime zest or orange zest along with the lemon for an additional layer of citrus brightness that enhances every bite.
Butterfly Shrimp Recipe FAQs
What kind of shrimp should I use for butterfly shrimp?
Absolutely! Opt for large raw shrimp with tails on, peeled and deveined. They provide the best texture and flavor for this recipe. Look for ones that are firm and slightly translucent; avoid any that have dark spots or an off odor.
How should I store leftover butterfly shrimp?
After cooking, store any leftover butterfly shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I recommend using the oven to maintain that delicious crispy texture—just preheat to 375°F and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
Can I freeze butterfly shrimp?
Yes! To freeze your butterfly shrimp, lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet and flash freeze them until solid. After a few hours, transfer the shrimp to a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
What should I do if my shrimp coating isn’t sticking?
No worries! If your coating isn’t sticking well, ensure your shrimp are patted dry before dredging. Additionally, the egg wash should completely coat the shrimp; if it’s too thin, try beating the eggs a bit more until they are frothy. A light dusting of flour before dipping can also help the breadcrumbs adhere better.
Are there any dietary considerations for this butterfly shrimp?
Very! If you’re concerned about allergies, this recipe contains shellfish and gluten (from the flour and breadcrumbs). For gluten-free options, you can swap out regular flour and panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives. Always check the labels if cooking for someone with food allergies!
How can I recreate that perfect crispy texture?
To achieve that irresistible crunch, ensure you use panko breadcrumbs, as they are lighter and crispier than traditional breadcrumbs. Patting the shrimp dry before dredging is crucial, and don’t overcrowd the pan while frying. This maintains the oil temperature and ensures even cooking. Aim for a frying temperature of 350°F for perfect results every time!
Crispy Butterfly Shrimp with Zesty Lemon Kick
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Butterfly the shrimp by slicing along the back where the black vein was, cutting halfway through. Open up and flatten the shrimp along this cut. Pat them dry with a paper towel for a perfect texture.
- Season the butterflied shrimp with salt and pepper.
- Measure the flour into a small bowl.
- Beat the eggs in another bowl until fully mixed.
- Mix the panko breadcrumbs, Old Bay seasoning, lemon zest, and minced parsley in a third bowl.
- Dredge the butterflied shrimp in the flour, dip in the egg, then roll in the panko mixture, pressing lightly to coat.
- Heat an inch of oil in a large Dutch oven over medium to medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
- Cook a few shrimp at a time for 2-4 minutes until golden brown, flipping them every minute.
- Serve the shrimp hot, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges.