Crispy Seasoned Fried Shrimp and French Fries Combo: The Ultimate Comfort Food Duo

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Few meals hit the spot quite like a well-executed seafood platter paired with golden, crunchy fries. Whether you’re planning a casual weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends, this Seasoned Fried Shrimp and French Fries Combo delivers on flavor, texture, and satisfaction. Crispy on the outside, juicy and tender on the inside, these perfectly seasoned shrimp are paired with oven-baked fries that rival any deep-fried version. This is the kind of recipe that speaks to everyone—from seasoned home cooks looking to elevate their seafood game to busy parents needing a quick but delicious family meal.

Why This Recipe is a Must-Try

This recipe is ideal for anyone who craves bold, comforting flavors with a Southern twist. The cornmeal in the shrimp coating offers a delightful crunch, while the paprika, garlic, and onion powder ensure every bite bursts with smoky, savory depth. The fries, baked instead of fried, bring a healthy touch without compromising on crispiness.

Even better, this meal comes together in under an hour and uses pantry staples and fresh ingredients. It’s versatile, crowd-pleasing, and easy to customize based on your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Fried Shrimp:

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for spice)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil recommended)

For the French Fries:

  • 4 medium potatoes, cut into fries
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Fries

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large mixing bowl, toss the potato strips with olive oil and a generous pinch of salt. Spread them out evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet, making sure they don’t overlap (this ensures crispiness). Bake for 30–35 minutes, flipping them halfway through until they’re golden and crispy.

Pro Tip: For ultra-crispy fries, soak the cut potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes, then dry thoroughly before tossing with oil.

2. Make the Seasoned Coating

In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper.

3. Dredge the Shrimp

Dip each peeled and deveined shrimp into the seasoning mix, pressing gently to ensure a solid, even coating. Shake off any excess before frying.

4. Fry the Shrimp

Heat oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the shrimp in small batches—about 2–3 minutes each—until golden and crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Once the fries are out of the oven and the shrimp are perfectly crisp, plate them together on a large serving dish. Serve immediately with dipping sauces such as cocktail sauce, tartar sauce, or garlic aioli.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Shallow dish or plate (for dredging)
  • Large skillet or deep fryer
  • Slotted spoon or spider strainer
  • Paper towels
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Food thermometer (optional, but helpful for frying)

Recipe Variations and Swaps

Want to shake things up a bit? Try these fun and flavorful alternatives:

  • Spicy Cajun Shrimp: Swap out paprika for Cajun seasoning and up the cayenne for an extra kick.
  • Panko Shrimp: For a lighter, crunchier texture, replace the cornmeal with panko breadcrumbs.
  • Sweet Potato Fries: Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a hint of sweetness and extra nutrients.
  • Air Fryer Option: Both the shrimp and the fries can be cooked in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for a lighter version.
  • Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free flour and certified gluten-free cornmeal for a completely gluten-free meal.

How to Store Leftovers

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating Tips:

  • Reheat shrimp and fries in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes to maintain crispiness.
  • Avoid microwaving—this can make the coating soggy.

Perfect Pairings

Elevate your meal with these beverage and side suggestions:

  • Drinks: A cold lager, sparkling lemonade, or iced tea with lemon all pair beautifully.
  • Sides: A crisp coleslaw or a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the fried elements.
  • Sauces: Don’t forget the dips! Homemade ranch, remoulade, or spicy sriracha mayo can really bring the platter to life.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Absolutely. Just make sure they are completely thawed and patted dry before coating and frying.

How do I know when the oil is hot enough?

You can test it by dropping a small bit of flour into the oil—it should sizzle immediately. A food thermometer reading of 350°F (175°C) is ideal for frying shrimp.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Yes! This recipe scales up beautifully. Just fry the shrimp in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the oil temperature and lead to soggy results.

Are there any dipping sauces you recommend?

Classic cocktail sauce, garlic aioli, honey mustard, or even buffalo ranch are all delicious with this combo.

What’s the best way to get crispy fries without frying?

Soaking the potatoes in cold water, drying them thoroughly, and baking at high heat on a preheated pan can produce wonderfully crispy results. Using a convection oven also helps.

Final Thoughts

This Seasoned Fried Shrimp and French Fries Combo is everything you want in a homemade meal—crispy, juicy, savory, and completely satisfying. It brings restaurant-quality flavor straight to your kitchen with minimal fuss. Whether you’re cooking for the family, hosting friends, or treating yourself to a weekend indulgence, this dish is guaranteed to impress.

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