buffalo shrimp recipe
The Best buffalo shrimp recipe

Crispy Buffalo Shrimp with Ranch Dipping Sauce
A quick and flavorful dish featuring succulent shrimp tossed in a tangy buffalo sauce, baked to golden perfection. Serve with a simple ranch dip for dipping or enjoy as-is with fresh veggies or crusty bread.
🥘Ingredients
- 1 lb (about 20 large) peeled and deveined shrimp, tails on
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for heat preference)
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ cup hot buffalo sauce
- 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp buttermilk (or plain yogurt)
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh chives
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. -
2
Pat shrimp dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, whisk together buffalo sauce, honey, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. Toss shrimp in the sauce until fully coated. -
3
Spread shrimp evenly on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between pieces. Drizzle any remaining sauce over the shrimp. Sprinkle with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. -
4
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until shrimp turn opaque and edges are crispy. Remove from oven and let rest for 2 minutes before serving.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Baking sheet
- Oven
- Tongs
- Paper towels
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
- For extra crispiness, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end if desired.
- Make ahead: Prep the sauce and shrimp mixture up to 1 day ahead. Store in the fridge and bake fresh before serving.
- Substitute shrimp with scallops or chicken thighs for a variation.
Watch Video Of How Crispy Buffalo Shrimp with Ranch Dipping Sauce Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Crispy Buffalo Shrimp with Ranch Dipping Sauce
1. What is the best way to prepare buffalo shrimp for dipping sauce?
Use the same buffalo sauce you cook them in for dipping—it’s the perfect balance of spicy, tangy, and creamy. For extra flavor, brush a little extra sauce on the shrimp before serving. If you prefer a milder dip, mix the sauce with a little Greek yogurt or sour cream to reduce the heat.
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2. Can I substitute any of the ingredients if I don’t have them on hand?
Yes, but keep the dish’s core balance in mind. For example:
– Hot sauce can be swapped for sriracha or gochujang for a different heat profile.
– Butter can be replaced with olive oil, though the texture of the shrimp will be slightly different.
– All-purpose flour can be used if you’re short, but avoid thickening the sauce too much—adjust liquid as needed.
Always taste and adjust seasoning after swapping ingredients.
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3. How do I know if the shrimp are cooked perfectly?
Buffalo shrimp cook quickly—aim for 1–2 minutes per side in a hot pan or skillet. They’re done when they turn opaque white and the edges pull away from the shell slightly. Overcooking makes them rubbery, so keep an eye on them and remove as soon as they’re just tender.
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4. Can I make buffalo shrimp ahead of time?
Yes, but the sauce should be made fresh. Cook the shrimp ahead and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 1–2 minutes, then toss with fresh buffalo sauce before serving. The sauce will thicken slightly when reheated, so add a splash of hot water if needed.
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5. How can I make this recipe less spicy?
To reduce heat, mix the buffalo sauce with 1–2 tablespoons of heavy cream, sour cream, or plain Greek yogurt before tossing with the shrimp. You can also:
– Use mild hot sauce (like a pinch of cayenne or a small amount of sriracha).
– Skip the hot sauce entirely and use a mix of mayonnaise, lemon juice, and a dash of garlic powder for a lighter, tangy flavor.
Always taste as you go—less is often more!
