Get ready to ignite your taste buds with this incredible Buffalo Shrimp recipe! Bursting with bold flavor and requiring just a handful of straightforward ingredients, these succulent shrimp are cooked to perfection before being coated in a tantalizingly spicy sauce with a hint of sweetness. Whether you’re seeking a show-stopping appetizer for your next gathering or a quick, satisfying meal for any day of the week, this easy-to-make dish is guaranteed to become a new favorite. Prepare for an unforgettable culinary experience that’s both simple and sensationally flavorful!
Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Buffalo Shrimp Recipe
This Buffalo Shrimp isn’t just another dish; it’s a culinary experience designed for maximum enjoyment with minimal effort. Here’s why it will quickly become a staple in your recipe rotation:
- Effortless & Lightning-Fast Preparation: Forget complicated steps or lengthy cooking times. This recipe is genuinely one of the simplest shrimp dishes you’ll ever make. With just a few minutes of prep and a quick broil, you’ll have perfectly cooked, flavorful shrimp ready to be sauced. It’s the ultimate solution for busy weeknights or when unexpected guests arrive.
- A Symphony of Irresistible Flavors: The combination of savory Cajun seasoning, fiery hot sauce, rich butter, and a touch of sweet honey creates an explosion of taste that’s truly addictive. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of spicy, tangy, and savory notes, making it impossible to stop at just one.
- Unmatched Versatility for Any Occasion: This isn’t just an appetizer; it’s a culinary chameleon! Serve it as a vibrant starter alongside a cool ranch or blue cheese dressing, or transform it into a wholesome main course. It’s fantastic over a fresh garden salad, nestled in soft tacos, or paired with roasted vegetables for a light and healthy dinner. The possibilities are endless.
- Healthy, Lean Protein Powerhouse: Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, making this dish a smart choice for those looking for nutritious yet flavorful meals. It’s naturally low in calories and can easily be adjusted to fit various dietary preferences, like lower-carb options by serving it without starchy sides.
- Highly Customizable to Your Palate: Whether you love a fiery kick or prefer a milder warmth, this recipe is incredibly adaptable. Adjust the amount of hot sauce or switch up the seasoning to tailor the spice level precisely to your liking. It’s a dish that truly caters to every taste.
Key Ingredients for the Perfect Buffalo Shrimp
Crafting these delectable Buffalo Shrimp relies on a few core ingredients that come together to create an unforgettable flavor. Choosing quality ingredients will elevate your dish from good to absolutely amazing.
Shrimp: The star of our show! For this recipe, aim for one pound of raw, peeled, and deveined shrimp. You have the choice to keep the tails on or remove them. Keeping the tails on can make for a more elegant presentation and, some argue, helps trap a little more flavor, making the shrimp even juicier. However, for a cleaner and easier eating experience, especially when serving as finger food, feel free to remove the tails before cooking. When buying shrimp, opt for medium to large sizes (around 21-30 count per pound) for a satisfying bite. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are thoroughly thawed before seasoning and cooking. The best way to thaw shrimp is overnight in the refrigerator or by placing them in a colander under cold running water for about 10-15 minutes.
Cajun Seasoning: This vibrant blend is what coats the shrimp in its initial layer of intense, aromatic flavor. Traditional Cajun seasoning is a robust mix of paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, and thyme, often with a good amount of salt and black pepper. It provides a savory, slightly smoky, and moderately spicy base that perfectly complements the hot sauce. If you don’t have a pre-made Cajun seasoning on hand, you can easily substitute it with Old Bay seasoning, or create your own simple blend using equal parts paprika, salt, and black pepper, with a pinch of cayenne for heat and garlic powder for depth.
Hot Sauce: The defining element of any buffalo dish! While almost any red cayenne pepper-based hot sauce will work, I highly recommend Frank’s RedHot. Its classic flavor profile is perfectly balanced—spicy without overpowering the natural sweetness of the shrimp, and tangy without being overly acidic. Crucially, Frank’s RedHot has an ideal consistency that clings beautifully to the shrimp, ensuring every piece is generously coated in that iconic buffalo goodness. For those who prefer a different level of heat, feel free to experiment with your favorite hot sauces, keeping in mind that hotter sauces will require careful moderation.
Butter: Melted butter is essential for creating the rich, glossy, and indulgent buffalo sauce. It emulsifies with the hot sauce, mellowing its sharpness slightly and adding a creamy, luxurious mouthfeel. Unsalted butter is usually preferred as it allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dish, especially since Cajun seasoning and hot sauce already contribute a significant amount of sodium.
Honey (Optional): A touch of honey adds a subtle sweetness that beautifully balances the heat and tang of the hot sauce. It creates a more complex flavor profile and gives the sauce a lovely glaze. If you prefer a less sweet sauce, you can omit it. Other sweeteners like maple syrup or a pinch of brown sugar can also be used as alternatives.
Olive Oil: Used for tossing the shrimp before broiling, olive oil helps the Cajun seasoning adhere to the shrimp and promotes even cooking, contributing to a tender interior and slightly crispy exterior. It’s a healthier fat choice that also adds a subtle fruity note.
Chef’s Expert Tips for Flawless Buffalo Shrimp
Achieving perfectly cooked and incredibly flavorful buffalo shrimp is easy with these insider tips. Elevate your dish from good to gourmet with these simple techniques:
- The Golden Rule: Pat Your Shrimp Dry! This step is often overlooked but is absolutely crucial for the best results. Before tossing the shrimp in Cajun seasoning, make sure to pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels. Excess moisture will steam the shrimp instead of allowing them to broil or sear properly, leading to a rubbery texture and preventing the seasoning from forming a delicious crust. Dried shrimp will bake up crispier, absorb flavors better, and result in a far more delicious outcome.
- Master the Art of Broiling (or Grilling!): Shrimp cooks incredibly fast, so a high-heat, quick method like broiling is ideal. Keep a close eye on them; shrimp are done when they turn opaque and pink. Overcooking will make them tough and rubbery.
- Broiling: Place shrimp in a single layer under a preheated broiler. Typically, 2-3 minutes per side is sufficient, depending on your broiler’s intensity and shrimp size. They should curl into a C-shape when perfectly cooked.
- Grilling: If you prefer a smoky char, grilling is a fantastic alternative. Thread seasoned shrimp onto skewers to prevent them from falling through the grates. Add them to a hot grill over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side, until they are opaque and slightly charred. This method adds a wonderful depth of flavor.
- Sautéing: For a stovetop option, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add seasoned shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
- Customize the Spice to Your Heart’s Desire: The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability to your personal spice preference.
- For Less Spicy Shrimp: Replace the Cajun seasoning with a simple blend of salt, black pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika for flavor without the heat. You can also reduce the amount of hot sauce by half or use a milder variety.
- For Extra Heat: If you’re a true spice enthusiast, don’t hesitate to add an extra dash of cayenne pepper to your Cajun seasoning. You can also increase the amount of hot sauce in the buffalo sauce mixture, or even include a pinch of red pepper flakes for an intensified kick.
- For a Sweeter Kick: Increase the honey slightly to balance out even more heat, creating a sweet and spicy dynamic that’s incredibly satisfying.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When broiling or grilling, ensure the shrimp are in a single layer and not touching. This allows for even cooking and proper browning, preventing them from steaming and becoming soggy. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Serve Immediately: Buffalo shrimp is best enjoyed fresh off the heat, tossed in the sauce. The flavors are most vibrant and the texture is optimal when served warm.
Beyond the Plate: Creative Serving Suggestions
While buffalo shrimp makes an undeniably delicious appetizer on its own, its versatility allows it to shine in a multitude of culinary creations. Get inspired with these ideas to turn your shrimp into a full, satisfying meal:
- Classic Appetizer Delight: Serve these fiery shrimp with traditional accompaniments like crisp celery sticks, crunchy carrot sticks, and generous bowls of cool ranch or tangy blue cheese dressing for dipping. It’s the perfect crowd-pleaser for game nights, parties, or simply a flavorful snack.
- Vibrant Salad Topper: Transform a simple green salad into a gourmet meal by adding warm buffalo shrimp. They pair wonderfully with a bed of crisp romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and a drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing. For an extra kick, add some crumbled feta or blue cheese.
- Buffalo Shrimp Tacos or Wraps: Pile the shrimp into warm tortillas with shredded cabbage slaw, a dollop of creamy avocado crema or Greek yogurt, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. For wraps, use large lettuce leaves or soft flour tortillas.
- Flavorful Rice Bowls: Create a hearty and balanced meal by serving the buffalo shrimp over a bed of fluffy white rice, brown rice, or even quinoa. Add your favorite roasted vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or corn, and finish with a squeeze of lime.
- Spicy Shrimp Pasta: Lightly toss the buffalo shrimp with a simple garlic butter pasta or a creamy, mild Alfredo sauce to create a delicious and satisfying pasta dish. The heat from the shrimp will perfectly contrast with the richness of the pasta.
- Mini Buffalo Shrimp Sliders: For an easy handheld meal, place the shrimp on small slider buns with a bit of coleslaw or a slice of tomato and a drizzle of dressing.
- Hearty Side Dish: Pair your buffalo shrimp with other robust flavors such as sweet potato fries, corn on the cob, or a classic mac and cheese for a truly indulgent meal.
Frequently Asked Questions About Buffalo Shrimp
Got questions about making the best buffalo shrimp? We’ve got answers!
- What kind of shrimp should I use for this recipe?
I recommend using raw, peeled, and deveined medium to large shrimp (21-30 count per pound) for the best texture and a substantial bite. You can use fresh or frozen, just ensure frozen shrimp are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.
- Can I make buffalo shrimp less spicy?
Absolutely! To reduce the heat, you can substitute Cajun seasoning with a milder spice blend (like smoked paprika, salt, and pepper) and use half the amount of hot sauce in the buffalo sauce. You can also increase the honey slightly to balance the spice with more sweetness.
- Can I prepare buffalo shrimp in advance?
While buffalo shrimp is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the shrimp by seasoning them a few hours ahead of time and storing them in the refrigerator. You can also mix the buffalo sauce ingredients in advance. Cook and toss the shrimp just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
- How long does buffalo shrimp last in the fridge?
Leftover buffalo shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at a low temperature to prevent overcooking.
- What if I don’t have a broiler? Can I use a different cooking method?
Yes! You can grill the shrimp on skewers (2-3 minutes per side) or sauté them in a hot skillet with a tablespoon of olive oil (1-2 minutes per side) until pink and opaque. The key is high heat and quick cooking to prevent overcooking.
- Is this buffalo shrimp recipe gluten-free?
Generally, yes! Shrimp is naturally gluten-free. Most Cajun seasonings are gluten-free, but always check the label. Frank’s RedHot original is gluten-free, but it’s always good to verify for other hot sauces or seasoning blends if you have a severe allergy.
More Irresistible Shrimp Recipes to Explore
- Frozen Shrimp in the Air Fryer
- Shrimp Francese
- Shrimp Remoulade
- Greek Shrimp Salad with Feta
- Keto Gumbo
- Cajun Shrimp
- Teriyaki Shrimp
- Shrimp Parmesan
Buffalo Shrimp Recipe
This buffalo shrimp is insanely flavorful and requires just a handful of simple ingredients! Shrimp are cooked until tender, then tossed in a spicy sauce with just a touch of sweetness. Enjoy this easy buffalo shrimp on its own as a tasty appetizer or over a salad for a delicious meal!
Author: Cheryl Malik
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 6 minutes
Total time: 11 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (see Notes for alternatives)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Large bowl
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to high broil. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- In a large bowl, add the shrimp and toss them with the Cajun seasoning until evenly coated. Drizzle in the olive oil and mix again to ensure all shrimp are lightly coated.
Seasoning the shrimp evenly. - Arrange the seasoned shrimp in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Broil for 3 minutes, then carefully flip each shrimp and broil for another 2-3 minutes, or until they are pink and opaque. Watch carefully to prevent overcooking.
Broiling the shrimp to perfection. - While the shrimp are cooking, prepare the buffalo sauce. In a separate large bowl, combine the hot sauce, melted butter, and honey (if using). Whisk until well combined.
- Once the shrimp are cooked, immediately transfer them into the bowl with the buffalo sauce. Toss gently to ensure every piece of shrimp is thoroughly coated in the delicious, spicy sauce.
Tossing the cooked shrimp in the rich buffalo sauce. - Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce like ranch or blue cheese dressing, alongside celery and carrot sticks.
Notes
- Cajun Seasoning Alternatives: If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, you can use Old Bay seasoning for a different but equally delicious flavor profile, or a homemade blend of paprika, salt, and black pepper with a pinch of garlic powder.
- Spice Level Customization: Adjust the amount of hot sauce to your preference. For a milder version, use less hot sauce; for extra heat, add a dash more or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning.
- Thawing Shrimp: If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning to prevent a watery texture.
Recipe yields approximately 4 servings. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including ranch dip, celery, or carrots. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by 4. Result will be the weight of one serving.
Nutrition Information (per 1 serving)
- Calories: 217 kcal
- Protein: 16 g
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Total Carbs: 7 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 5 g
- Net Carbs: 6 g
- Vitamin C: 22 mg
- Cholesterol: 158 mg
- Sodium: 1486 mg
- Potassium: 216 mg
- Calcium: 70 mg
- Iron: 1 mg
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
© Author: Cheryl Malik
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