Crispy Salt and Pepper Shrimp for a Flavorful Dinner Delight

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team

There s something undeniably enticing about the sizzle of shrimp frying in hot oil, particularly when seasoned with hearty salt and the warm touch of Sichuan peppercorns. I first discovered this delicious twist on a classic dish while experimenting in my kitchen, and it quickly became a favorite. The crispy shells provide a delightful crunch, encasing juicy shrimp that burst with flavor, creating a perfect balance of heat and texture.

If you re tired of the same old takeout, this Crispy Salt and Pepper Shrimp recipe will bring a burst of culinary excitement right to your dining table. Not only is it quick to prepare, but it also promises to impress your family and friends, making it the perfect dish for casual dinners or special gatherings. Trust me, once you ve tasted these perfectly seasoned shrimp, you ll be itching to make them again and again!

Why will you love Salt and Pepper Shrimp?

Irresistible Crunch: The crispy, golden shells create a satisfying texture that complements the tender shrimp inside.
Bold Flavors: Thanks to the unique combination of Sichuan peppercorns and garlic, each bite bursts with aromatic spice.
Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Impress family and friends with this homemade treat that rivals any restaurant offering; it s perfect for gatherings.
Versatile Sides: Pair it with hot cooked rice or your favorite dipping sauce to create a delightful meal. Whether you serve it as an appetizer or a main course, these easy cooking tips will elevate your dining experience!

Salt and Pepper Shrimp Ingredients

Dive into the delicious flavors with these must-have ingredients!

For the Shrimp

• Uncooked Shell-on Shrimp (16-20 per pound) The main protein that stays juicy and flavorful, keeping the shells on adds texture!
• Cornstarch This is what creates that irresistible crispy coating when frying; it locks in moisture for mouthwatering bites.
• Sichuan Peppercorns They deliver a unique aromatic spiciness distinctive to this dish; you can substitute with black peppercorns if needed, but it will alter the taste slightly.
• White Pepper Adds a mild heat that enhances the overall flavor without overpowering; no substitutions necessary.

For Seasoning

• Salt Essential to accentuate the flavors; it s divided into portions for cooking and finishing touches.
• Garlic Cloves (minced) Fresh garlic provides a lovely aromatic factor when stir-fried, elevating the overall taste.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes These offer an extra kick; adjust based on your spice tolerance!

For Cooking & Garnish

• Oil for Frying Vital for achieving that perfect crispy texture; opt for vegetable oil due to its high smoking point.
• Sliced Green Onions Used as a sprinkle for garnish, adding a fresh crunch; you can swap with chives if you prefer!
• Hot Cooked Rice This makes the perfect side to balance the shrimp s spiciness feel free to use any type of white rice.

Gather these ingredients to whip up your amazing Salt and Pepper Shrimp that will surely impress!

How to Make Salt and Pepper Shrimp

1. Toast the Spices: In a dry wok or deep skillet, heat the Sichuan peppercorns with 3 teaspoons of salt over medium heat. Stir for 2-3 minutes until fragrant, then process until finely ground and set aside.

2. Prepare the Shrimp: Grab your uncooked shell-on shrimp and remove the legs while deveining them. Be sure to leave the shells on for moisture and crunch, then pat them dry with paper towels to prep for frying.

3. Coat the Shrimp: In a bowl, combine cornstarch, white pepper, and the remaining salt. Toss the clean shrimp in this mixture until they re evenly coated for that crispy texture.

4. Heat the Oil: Pour in about ½ inch of oil into the wok, heating it to around 375 °F. This is perfect for frying! Cook the shrimp in batches for 5-6 minutes, or until they turn golden and are no longer pink.

5. Stir-Fry Aromatics: Once the shrimp are crispy, drain the oil, leaving just 2 teaspoons in the wok. Add minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes; stir-fry for 30-45 seconds until aromatic but careful not to burn.

6. Finish the Dish: Toss the fried shrimp back into the wok, adding 1 teaspoon of the ground pepper mixture. Stir briefly to combine everything, then garnish with sliced green onions. Serve immediately with hot cooked rice!

Optional: Add a splash of soy sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Salt and Pepper Shrimp

• Pat Dry Thoroughly: Ensure the shrimp are well-dried before coating to achieve that irresistibly crispy crust without any sogginess.

• Mind the Heat: Keep an eye on the oil temperature; if it s too low, the shrimp won t fry properly. Aim for 375 °F for optimal crispiness.

• Don t Overcook: Watch the shrimp closely; they should be cooked until just pink and golden. Overcooking can lead to tough, rubbery shrimp.

• Toast with Care: When toasting Sichuan peppercorns, do it for just 2-3 minutes to prevent bitterness in your salt and pepper shrimp.

• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to tweak the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to cater to your personal spice preference or that of your guests!

• Serve Fresh: For the best experience, serve the salt and pepper shrimp immediately after cooking, as they lose their crispness over time.

What to Serve with Salt and Pepper Shrimp?

Creating a balanced meal that complements the richness of crispy shrimp makes every bite even more enjoyable.

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice absorbs delicious flavors, making it an ideal base to soak up the savory juices from the shrimp.

• Garlic Bok Choy: The crunchy, garlicky bok choy adds a fresh, vibrant touch that balances out the richness of the shrimp while enhancing the overall meal.

• Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumbers tossed in a tangy dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the warm, spicy shrimp, helping to cool down the palate.

• Sweet Chili Sauce: This dipping sauce adds a perfect blend of sweetness and heat, enhancing the flavors and providing an exciting twist to each bite of shrimp.

• Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet dish offers a lovely finish with its creamy coconut and beautiful notes of ripe mango that contrast beautifully with the savory shrimp.

• Chardonnay or Riesling: A chilled glass of either white wine enhances the dish, with Chardonnay complementing the buttery notes and Riesling nurturing the heat with its sweetness.

Pairing these side dishes and drinks will elevate your meal and leave everyone craving more delicious experiences!

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Salt and Pepper Shrimp are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can clean and devein the shrimp up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. You can also prep the spice mixture (Sichuan peppercorns, salt, white pepper) a few days ahead and store it in a sealed jar. When you re ready to cook, simply coat the shrimp in the cornstarch mixture and fry them; they ll be just as delicious and crispy. This way, you can enjoy a fabulous homemade dinner with minimal effort after a long day!

How to Store and Freeze Salt and Pepper Shrimp

• Room Temperature: Ideally, enjoy your salt and pepper shrimp fresh out of the pan for the best texture and flavor experience.

• Fridge: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Note that the crispy shells may soften over time.

• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked shrimp in an airtight container for up to 1 month. To maintain quality, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in the container.

• Reheating: To regain the crispiness, reheat in a hot skillet for a few minutes or in the oven at 400 °F until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it may lead to a soggy texture.

Salt and Pepper Shrimp Variations

Customize your salt and pepper shrimp experience with these exciting variations that will add your unique twist!

• Spice it Up: Add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for an added kick. This will elevate those fiery flavors even more!

• Herb Boost: Mix dried herbs like thyme or basil into the cornstarch before coating. This adds a fragrant layer to the shrimp.

• Garlic Lovers: Increase the minced garlic to 6 cloves for an aromatic explosion. More garlic equals more flavor, and who wouldn t love that?

• Zesty Lime: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the finished shrimp for a bright, zesty twist. This citrus freshness enhances the dish beautifully.

• Coconut Crunch: Swap cornstarch for toasted coconut flakes for a unique, sweet twist. The coconut adds an incredible crunch and a hint of sweetness.

• Asian Sesame: Drizzle sesame oil over the shrimp just before serving for a warm, nutty aroma. This extra layer of flavor will have everyone asking for more.

• Peanut Crunch: Fold in chopped peanuts after frying for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. The added texture is sure to impress your guests!

• Vegetable Medley: Toss in some stir-fried bell peppers and snap peas with the shrimp for a colorful and nutritious addition. This makes the dish even more enticing!

Salt and Pepper Shrimp Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best shrimp?
Absolutely! When selecting shrimp, look for the freshest uncooked shell-on shrimp with a slight ocean smell. Avoid any with dark spots or a fishy odor. Fresh shrimp should feel firm and have a translucent appearance. If possible, choose shrimp that have been previously frozen, as their rapid freezing locks in flavor and texture.

How should I store leftover salt and pepper shrimp?
Make sure to store your salt and pepper shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last for up to 2 days; however, the crispy shells may become softer. For a fresher taste, try to enjoy them as soon as possible!

Can I freeze salt and pepper shrimp?
Yes, you can! To freeze cooked shrimp, place them in an airtight container and make sure to wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. They can be saved for up to 1 month. When you re ready to eat them, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a hot skillet or oven to help restore their crispy texture.

What should I do if my shrimp aren t crispy?
Very common! If your shrimp don t turn out crispy, it might be because they were not dried properly before coating, or the oil wasn t hot enough (aim for 375 °F). To ensure crispiness, pat your shrimp dry with paper towels, use enough oil for frying, and don t overcrowd the pan while cooking; frying in batches works best!

Are there any dietary considerations I should know about?
Absolutely, especially if serving to guests. Check for any allergies; shellfish can cause reactions in some individuals. If you have friends with gluten sensitivities, simply ensure that the cornstarch used is certified gluten-free. For those avoiding spicy foods, adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to their preference.

Can I use different spices or substitutions?
Very! If you can t find Sichuan peppercorns, black peppercorns can be a substitute, but expect a different flavor profile. For a milder dish, reduce the red pepper flakes or leave them out altogether. You can even experiment with adding dried herbs into the cornstarch mix for a unique twist.