Sizzling Bubba Gump Shrimp Recipe That Tastes Like Magic

Savoring a classic bubba gump shrimp recipe transports you straight to the heart of coastal cuisine.

Memories of succulent seafood and vibrant flavors dance across my palate.

Coastal restaurants inspired this legendary dish that captures the essence of fresh ocean catches.

Southern charm meets culinary creativity in each perfectly seasoned bite.

My kitchen always comes alive when these magical ingredients start sizzling together.

Simple yet spectacular, this recipe promises to become your new favorite seafood sensation.

Prepare to wow everyone at your next gathering with these irresistible shrimp that sing with pure deliciousness.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bubba Gump Shrimp

• What type of shrimp works best for this recipe?

Large or jumbo Gulf shrimp are ideal because they provide a meaty texture and hold the crispy coating perfectly. Peeled and deveined shrimp save preparation time and ensure an easy cooking process.

• How can I make the coating extra crispy?

Double-dredging the shrimp by first coating in buttermilk, then flour mixture, then repeating the process creates an extra thick and crunchy exterior. Ensure oil is at the right temperature (350F) for maximum crispiness.

• Can I bake instead of frying?

While frying gives the best results, you can bake at 425F for 10-12 minutes, turning once halfway through. Spray breaded shrimp with cooking spray to help achieve a golden color and crisp texture.

Why Bubba Gump Shrimp Stands Out in Seafood Dishes

• Spice Up Your Palate: Dive into a flavor explosion with this perfectly seasoned shrimp that brings restaurant-quality taste right to your kitchen.
• Quick Crowd-Pleaser: Prepare a mouthwatering dish in minutes that will impress family and friends with minimal cooking skills required.
• Versatile Dining Delight: Perfect for casual gatherings, game nights, or as a delectable appetizer that suits multiple meal occasions.
• Customize with Ease: Adjust the spice level by playing with cayenne pepper and create your own signature coating that matches your taste preferences.

Ingredients for Bubba Gump Shrimp

• Flour: A base for creating a crispy, golden exterior on the shrimp.
• Cornmeal: Adds extra crunch and texture to the coating.
• Garlic Powder: Provides a subtle, savory flavor to the breading.
• Paprika: Contributes a mild, sweet pepper taste and reddish color.
• Cayenne Pepper: Brings a spicy kick to the shrimp coating.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• Black Pepper: Adds a subtle heat and depth to the seasoning.

• Buttermilk: Helps the dry coating stick to the shrimp and adds tanginess.

• Vegetable Oil: Creates a hot cooking environment for achieving a crispy exterior.

• Lemon Wedges, Cocktail Sauce: Provide fresh, tangy, and zesty complementary flavors to the fried shrimp.

Stepwise Instructions for Bubba Gump Shrimp

Step 1: Create Flavorful Coating

In a wide, shallow container, mix together a blend of ingredients to create a zesty breading.

• Flour
• Cornmeal
• Garlic powder
• Paprika
• Cayenne pepper
• Salt
• Black pepper

Combine these dry ingredients thoroughly, ensuring an even distribution of spices for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Prepare Shrimp for Breading

Dunk each shrimp into buttermilk, allowing the liquid to help the coating stick. Immediately transfer the wet shrimp to the seasoned flour mixture. Gently press the coating onto the shrimp, ensuring a complete and even coverage.

Step 3: Heat Cooking Oil

Select a large skillet and pour in vegetable oil. Warm the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches the ideal frying temperature of 350°F/175°C. Use a cooking thermometer if available to confirm the precise heat.

Step 4: Fry Shrimp to Golden Perfection

Carefully place the coated shrimp into the hot oil. Cook in small batches to maintain oil temperature and prevent overcrowding. Flip the shrimp once during cooking. Each batch should take approximately 2-3 minutes, turning a beautiful golden brown with a crispy exterior.

Step 5: Drain Excess Oil

Remove the fried shrimp from the skillet using a slotted spoon or tongs. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil and maintain the crispy texture.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Plate the hot, crispy shrimp immediately. Accompany with fresh lemon wedges and tangy cocktail sauce for dipping. Serve as an appetizer or main course for a delightful seafood experience.

Pro Tips to Perfect Bubba Gump Shrimp

• Coat shrimp thoroughly in seasoned flour mixture for maximum flavor and crispy texture.
• Use a candy thermometer to maintain precise oil temperature, ensuring evenly cooked and golden-brown shrimp.
• Pat shrimp dry before dipping in buttermilk to help breading stick better and create crunchier coating.
• For gluten-free option, replace wheat flour with rice flour or gluten-free cornmeal blend.
• Let shrimp rest on paper towels for a minute to absorb excess oil and keep coating crisp.

Creative Spins on Bubba Gump Shrimp

• Herb-Crusted Shrimp: Add chopped fresh parsley, thyme, and dill to the flour mixture for an aromatic herb coating that brings a garden-fresh flavor to the classic recipe.
• Coconut Crunch Shrimp: Mix shredded coconut with the cornmeal and flour for a tropical-inspired crispy exterior that adds sweetness and texture to the shrimp.
• Spicy Cajun Shrimp: Increase cayenne pepper and add Cajun seasoning to the flour mixture, creating a bold and fiery version that packs a serious punch of southern heat.
• Beer-Battered Shrimp: Replace buttermilk with light beer in the coating process, which creates an extra crispy and lighter batter with a subtle hoppy undertone.

Pairing Suggestions for Bubba Gump Shrimp

• Spice Up with Zesty Margarita: Combine the crispy shrimp's bold flavors with a tangy, salt-rimmed margarita that cuts through the richness and complements the cayenne kick.
• Creamy Remoulade Dip: Whip up a homemade remoulade sauce with mayo, Dijon mustard, capers, and herbs to provide a cool, creamy contrast to the crunchy, spicy shrimp.
• Southern Comfort Pairing: Serve alongside creamy coleslaw and crisp hush puppies to create a classic Southern-style seafood spread that celebrates comfort food traditions.
• Citrus-Infused White Wine: Select a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio with bright citrus notes that will refresh the palate and balance the shrimp's spicy breading.

Proper Storage for Bubba Gump Shrimp

• Place cooled fried shrimp in an airtight container, separating layers with paper towels to absorb moisture. Refrigerate for up to 2 days to maintain crispiness.
• Wrap individual shrimp in plastic wrap, then store in freezer-safe bags. Freeze for maximum 1 month to prevent texture breakdown and flavor loss.
• Preheat oven to 375°F, arrange shrimp on a wire rack over a baking sheet. Warm for 8-10 minutes until crispy, turning once halfway through to ensure even heating.
• Set air fryer to 350°F, place shrimp in single layer without overcrowding.

Bubba Gump Shrimp Recipe

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4.7 from 33 reviews

• Total Time: 16-18 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Bubba Gump Shrimp recipe brings coastal California flavors straight to home kitchens with classic seafood charm. Succulent shrimp paired with zesty seasonings create a mouthwatering dish that connects culinary memories and brings coastal comfort to your plate.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 1 pound (454 grams) large shrimp, peeled and deveined

Dry Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornmeal
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Liquid and Cooking Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• Lemon wedges (optional)
• Cocktail sauce (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare a seasoned breading station by mixing flour, cornmeal, and aromatic spices in a wide, shallow container.
2. Create a dipping sequence by first coating each shrimp in tangy buttermilk, ensuring complete coverage.
3. Gently press the buttermilk-coated shrimp into the spiced flour mixture, achieving an even, crisp exterior.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a spacious skillet to 350°F, creating a sizzling frying environment.
5. Carefully lower shrimp into the hot oil, working in small batches to maintain optimal temperature.
6. Fry each batch for 2-3 minutes, flipping midway to ensure uniform golden-brown coloration and crispy texture.
7. Transfer fried shrimp onto absorbent paper towels to eliminate excess oil and preserve crunchiness.
8. Plate the shrimp immediately while piping hot, accompanied by zesty lemon wedges and tangy cocktail sauce for dipping.

Notes

• Ensure shrimp are patted completely dry before coating to achieve maximum crispiness and prevent soggy breading.
• Maintain consistent oil temperature around 350F to guarantee even golden-brown coating without burning or undercooking.
• For gluten-free option, substitute wheat flour with almond flour or gluten-free cornmeal blend to accommodate dietary restrictions.
• Consider adding extra cayenne or hot sauce for spice lovers who want an extra kick in the breading mixture.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 6-8 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 460 kcal
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 700 mg
• Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 195 mg