Let me introduce you to Deep Fried Shrimp Donuts. These golden, crunchy seafood treats are bold, flavorful, and glazed in a rich garlic parmesan sauce that’s impossible to resist.
Skip the boring appetizers and serve something that actually gets people talking. These aren’t your typical donuts. We’re talking shrimp, spices, crunch, and creamy garlic magic in every bite.
Craving something crispy, savory, and absolutely unforgettable?
Ready to take your taste buds on a wild ride? Let’s do this.
Why You’ll Love Deep Fried Shrimp Donuts
- Crispy on the outside, juicy inside
- Packed with bold spices and real shrimp
- Topped with a creamy garlic parmesan glaze
- Great for parties, game day, or indulgent snacks
- Easy to make with pantry staples
Deep Fried Shrimp Donuts
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Shrimp Mixture:
- 1 lb raw shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tbsp hot sauce
- 1 tbsp Old Bay seasoning
- 2 tsp onion powder
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
For the Coating:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp Old Bay seasoning
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups panko bread crumbs
- 2 eggs + 2 tbsp water (for egg wash)
For the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2½ tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper
- ¾ cup grated parmesan cheese
Let’s Make Deep Fried Shrimp Donuts
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp Mixture
- Finely chop the shrimp until it reaches a thick, paste-like consistency.
- Transfer to a mixing bowl.
- Add minced garlic, hot sauce, Old Bay, onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and cayenne.
- Mix everything thoroughly. Set aside.
Why the paste?
It helps the shrimp hold together and gives the donut that juicy texture when you bite in.
Step 2: Season the Flour
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, Old Bay, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Stir well so every bit of flour carries flavor.
Step 3: Form the Donuts
- Take a handful of the shrimp mixture and roll it into a ball.
- Flatten it slightly and poke a hole through the center to create a donut shape.
Tip:
Use your thumb or a round cookie cutter to form a perfect donut hole.
Step 4: Bread the Donuts
- Coat each shrimp donut in the seasoned flour.
- Dip into the egg wash.
- Then roll in panko bread crumbs until fully coated.
Want that extra crunch?
Press the panko in firmly. It makes a big difference when frying.
Step 5: Freeze Before Frying
- Place the donuts on a tray and freeze for 30 minutes.
Why freeze?
It helps them hold their shape and cook evenly in the oil.
Step 6: Fry Until Golden
- Heat oil to 350°F.
- Fry the shrimp donuts for 3–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Don’t overcrowd the pan.
Fry in small batches for best results.
Step 7: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- In a skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic and parsley until fragrant.
- Stir in the flour to make a roux. Cook for 1–2 minutes.
- Add chicken broth and heavy cream slowly while whisking.
- Let the sauce simmer and thicken.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper.
- Gradually stir in the parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
How to Serve Shrimp Donuts
- Drizzle garlic parmesan sauce over the donuts.
- Garnish with extra parsley or grated parmesan.
- Serve hot with lemon wedges or a side of spicy mayo.
Perfect for:
- Game day bites
- Seafood lovers’ night
- Potlucks or backyard parties
- Impressing guests without breaking a sweat
Storage & Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? Here’s how to store them:
- Store fried donuts (without sauce) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a 375°F oven or air fryer until crispy.
- Reheat sauce separately on the stove or microwave.
Make It Your Own
Want to level up your shrimp donuts? Try this:
- Spicy kick: Add jalapeños or diced chili to the mix.
- Cheesy twist: Mix in shredded mozzarella or cheddar.
- Extra flavor: Swap Old Bay for Cajun seasoning.
- Light version: Air fry instead of deep fry.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes—just thaw and pat them dry before chopping.
Can I bake instead of frying?
Yes, but the texture won’t be as crispy. Bake at 400°F for 15–20 minutes.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Definitely. Freeze the breaded shrimp donuts and fry them later when ready to serve.
What oil should I use?
Neutral oils like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil work best.
Deep Fried Shrimp Donuts are bold, addictive, and packed with flavor.
They’re crunchy, juicy, and dripping in a creamy garlic parmesan sauce. The kind of snack that turns heads and has people asking for your secret.
Skip the takeout. Make this instead.
You’ve got everything you need—now it’s time to fry up some magic.
Want more high-impact recipes that actually satisfy?
Stick around. I’ve got plenty more coming your way.
