Ritz Fried Shrimp
Crispy, golden fried shrimp coated with crushed Ritz crackers and a pancake batter, perfect as an appetizer or main dish for seafood lovers seeking bold, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine egg, milk, and pancake mix in a bowl as you would for pancakes.
- Crush about 3 or 4 cups of Ritz crackers in a food processor and place in a separate bowl.
- One at a time, dip each shrimp into the pancake mixture, then roll the shrimp into the cracker crumbs.
- Place the coated shrimp on a tray.
- Deep fry the shrimp until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra crunch, you can substitute regular pancake mix with a buttermilk version. If you don't have Ritz crackers, any buttery crackers will work well. To enhance flavor, consider adding spices like garlic powder or paprika to the pancake batter. Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve that golden brown color without absorbing too much oil.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Ritz Fried Shrimp hot with a side of tangy cocktail sauce or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. They pair wonderfully with a fresh garden salad or coleslaw for a light meal. For a heartier option, consider serving them alongside Nancy Welch's Clam Chowder for a delightful seafood feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover fried shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to maintain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ritz Fried Shrimp contains roughly 1113 calories, with 21g protein, 175g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (45% of the Daily Value), protein (42% of the Daily Value), and calcium (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1011mg per serving (44% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before coating to avoid excess moisture, which can affect the batter adherence.
What oil is best for deep frying the shrimp?
Peanut oil is ideal for deep frying due to its high smoke point and neutral flavor, but vegetable oil or canola oil also works well. Just ensure the oil is hot enough for frying.
Can I bake the shrimp instead of frying?
While frying gives the best texture, you can bake the shrimp at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes. Spray them lightly with cooking oil for a crispy finish, but note that they won't be as crunchy as when fried.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).