Name: Savory Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp: Quick Crispy Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Shrimp (Use shells on for enhanced flavor.); 0.5 cup Potato/corn starch (Use corn starch for gluten-free.); 1 tbsp Paprika (Consider smoked paprika for deeper flavor.); 1 tbsp Onion powder; 1 tbsp Garlic powder; 1 tbsp Salt; 1 tsp Pepper; 0.5 cup Neutral oil (Vegetable or canola oil works well.); 4 tbsp Butter (Base for the garlic sauce.); 2 lemons Lemon wedges (For serving.)

Caught in a crunch during dinner hour, I mixed up a handful of ingredients and was instantly transported to the sandy shores of Hawaii. This Crispy Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp recipe takes just 25 minutes to create an irresistible meal, marrying quick prep with a punch of garlicky goodness. Whether you’re looking to impress guests as a delightful appetizer or searching for a main dish bursting with flavor, this dish meets your needs seamlessly. Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch, enhanced by juicy shrimp enveloped in a rich garlic butter sauce. Perfect for those nights when fast food no longer cuts it, this dish invites you to swap convenience for homemade joy. Ready to unleash the flavors of the islands right in your kitchen?

Why is Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp a Must-Try?

Quick and Easy: This recipe is a lifesaver on busy nights, turning out a delicious meal in just 25 minutes.

Bold Garlic Flavor: Each bite is infused with a savory garlic butter sauce that elevates the taste of succulent shrimp.

Versatile Dish: Serve it as an appetizer or turn it into a main course over rice for a full dinner experience! Pair it with a refreshing salad for a balanced meal. If you’re in the mood for something different, try it alongside Cajun Pasta Shrimp.

Crowd-Pleaser: Impress family and friends at any gathering with this mouthwatering dish that’s sure to be a hit.

Unique Texture: The crispy outer layer adds a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender shrimp inside, making it utterly irresistible.

Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Ingredients

• The key to crafting this dish perfectly lies in using the right ingredients.

For the Shrimp

Shrimp – Using shells on enhances crispiness and adds flavor during cooking.

For the Coating

Potato/corn starch – Coats the shrimp for a crispy outer layer; use corn starch for a gluten-free option.
Paprika – Provides color and mild smokiness; consider smoked paprika for a deeper flavor.
Onion powder – Adds a savory depth to the shrimp.
Garlic powder – Intensifies the overall garlicky goodness.
Salt & Pepper – Essential seasonings to elevate the dish’s flavors.

For Frying

Neutral oil – Ideal for frying, giving the shrimp a delightful crunch; vegetable or canola oil works well.

For the Sauce

Butter – The base for the garlic sauce, imparting richness and flavor.
Lemon wedges – Adds a refreshing brightness to balance the richness of the garlic butter.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Start by cleaning and deveining the shrimp, ensuring to leave the shells on for added crispiness. Rinse them under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is vital as it helps to achieve the perfect texture when frying. Set the prepared shrimp aside while you mix the dry ingredients.

Step 2: Coat the Shrimp
In a medium bowl, combine potato or corn starch, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of spices. Working in batches, coat each shrimp generously with this mixture, pressing gently to adhere. This coating will give your crispy Hawaiian garlic shrimp its wonderful crunch when fried.

Step 3: Heat the Oil
In a large skillet, pour enough neutral oil to cover the bottom generously. Heat the oil over medium heat until it shimmers—this usually takes about 2-3 minutes. To test for readiness, drop a small pinch of the coating mixture into the oil; it should sizzle immediately. Once hot, carefully add shrimp in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding the pan.

Step 4: Fry the Shrimp
Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on one side or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Flip carefully with tongs, ensuring they don’t break, and fry for an additional 2-3 minutes on the other side. Once done, remove them from the pan and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil; this keeps them crispy while you prepare the sauce.

Step 5: Make the Garlic Sauce
Lower the heat to medium-low after removing the shrimp. If needed, drain excess oil, leaving about 1-2 tablespoons in the pan for flavor. Add butter to the remaining oil and allow it to melt gently, swirling the pan to combine. This rich mixture is the base of your garlic sauce, crucial for your Hawaiian garlic shrimp.

Step 6: Sauté the Garlic
When the butter is melted, add minced garlic to the pan. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring often until fragrant but not browned. The goal here is to infuse the butter with rich garlic flavor while creating an aromatic sauce. As the aroma fills your kitchen, you know the garlic is on the right track to enhance your shrimp dish.

Step 7: Combine and Serve
Once the garlic is perfectly fragrant, toss the fried shrimp directly into the garlic butter mixture. Make sure each shrimp is coated well, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve immediately alongside fluffy white rice and fresh lemon wedges for a zesty contrast. Your delicious Hawaiian garlic shrimp is now ready to impress!

Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Variations & Substitutions

Don’t be afraid to get creative with this dish; there are endless ways to make it your own!

Chicken or Tofu: Swap shrimp for chicken pieces or tofu to cater to different dietary preferences. This creates a similar crispy texture while keeping the flavor intact. Both options can deliver an equally satisfying bite, making it a fantastic adaptable dish.
Spicy Heat: Feel free to add cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a spicy kick! Adjust according to your personal taste—whether you prefer a gentle warmth or a fiery burst, the choice is all yours.
Low-Carb Alternative: Serve over sautéed vegetables instead of rice for a healthy, low-carb dish. Zucchini noodles or bell pepper strips maintain a light yet flavorful experience, ensuring guilt-free enjoyment.
Different Proteins: Explore using scallops or firm fish fillets instead of shrimp. These options bring a unique taste and an exciting blend of flavors, appealing to all seafood lovers.
Flavor Boost with Herbs: Toss in fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a vibrant pop of flavor. The freshness balances the richness of the garlic sauce delightfully, enhancing each bite.
Pasta Twist: Consider serving the shrimp over pasta for a delicious seafood dish. The garlic butter sauce will soak into the noodles, offering a comforting and satisfying meal option.

If you’re intrigued by more seafood options, give these delightful recipes a try: Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp or East Coast Shrimp. You’ll enjoy discovering new favorites!

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can clean and devein the shrimp and even coat them in the seasoning mix up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain their quality, avoid frying the shrimp until you are ready to serve, as they will stay just as crispy and flavorful. When you’re ready to enjoy your shrimp, fry them up until golden and toss them in the garlic butter sauce as per the final steps. With this prep, you’ll have a quick and satisfying meal ready to impress while saving precious time on busy weeknights!

How to Store and Freeze Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp

Fridge: Store leftover Hawaiian garlic shrimp in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This keeps the shrimp fresh while the flavors meld together wonderfully.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Ensure it’s well-sealed to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, which helps retain the crispy texture of the shrimp. Avoid microwaving as it may make them soggy.

Before Serving: Always serve shrimp while hot for the best taste, and feel free to squeeze fresh lemon juice over them to bring back that vibrant flavor!

What to Serve with Crispy Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?

Elevate your dining experience with these delightful pairings that complement the vibrant flavors of your dish.

Fluffy White Rice: Perfectly soaks up the rich garlic butter, balancing the dish while allowing the shrimp to shine.
Zesty Lemon Wedges: A squeeze adds brightness, cutting through the richness and enhancing the overall flavor of the shrimp.
Crisp Green Salad: Fresh greens and a tangy vinaigrette provide a crunchy contrast and refreshing profile to the rich main dish.
Sautéed Vegetables: Colorful veggies add a burst of flavor and nutrition, creating a well-rounded meal that’s visually appealing.
Garlic Bread: For those who can’t get enough garlic, this buttery, toasted treat complements the shrimp and makes for a satisfying side.
Pineapple Salsa: Sweet and tangy, this salsa provides a tropical twist that enhances the Hawaiian aspect of the dish.
Mango Smoothie: A creamy tropical drink that contrasts beautifully with the garlicky savory shrimp while refreshing the palate.
Coconut Rice: This subtly sweet side infuses a hint of vacation vibes, pairing wonderfully with the garlicky crunch of the shrimp.
Iced Tea or Lemonade: Crisp, refreshing drinks that cleanse the palate, making them ideal companions for this flavorful seafood dish.
Lime Sorbet: This light dessert cleanses the palate after your garlic-filled feast, leaving you satisfied yet longing for more!

Helpful Tricks for Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp

Fresh Shrimp Essential: Use the freshest shrimp you can find. Frozen shrimp can work, but fresh offers the best texture and flavor in this delightful Hawaiian garlic shrimp recipe.
Avoid Overcrowding: Frying shrimp in batches prevents them from steaming. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy texture we all love.
Control the Heat: Maintain a medium heat while frying. Too high can burn the coating, while too low leads to soggy shrimp.
Customize Spiciness: Feel free to adjust the paprika level or add a pinch of cayenne for those who enjoy a spicier kick in their Hawaiian garlic shrimp dish.
Proper Sauce Timing: Add the garlic to the butter only after it melts; browning can lead to bitterness. You’re aiming for fragrant warmth, not burnt notes!

Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the freshest shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting shrimp, look for those with a clean, ocean-like smell, firm texture, and a slightly translucent appearance. Avoid shrimp with black spots or a strong fishy odor, as these indicate age. If you’re buying frozen, opt for the ones that are flash-frozen right after harvesting for optimal taste and quality.

Can I store leftover Hawaiian garlic shrimp, and for how long?
Yes, you can! Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This will keep them fresh while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. When ready to eat, gently reheat them in a skillet over low heat for the best texture.

Can I freeze Hawaiian garlic shrimp?
Certainly! To freeze, lay the cooked shrimp out in a single layer on a baking sheet, making sure they are not touching. Freeze for about 1-2 hours until firm, then transfer them to a zip-top bag, squeezing out excess air. Properly stored, they can last up to 2 months in the freezer. This method helps preserve their delicious flavor and crispy texture.

What can I do if the shrimp become soggy after cooking?
If your shrimp turn out soggy, it’s often due to overcrowding while frying or incorrect oil temperature. To avoid this, always fry shrimp in small batches and ensure the oil is hot enough (about 350°F or 175°C) before adding them. If you’ve already cooked them and they’re soggy, quickly sauté them in a hot skillet for a minute to re-crisp them.

Are there any dietary considerations I should know?
Definitely! This recipe contains shellfish, which can be an allergen for some. Additionally, those on gluten-free diets can simply use corn starch instead of potato starch for the coating. If you’re cooking for pets, keep them away from the garlic and onion powder, as both are toxic to dogs and cats.

Can I customize the spices in my Hawaiian garlic shrimp?
Very much so! If you love heat, consider adding cayenne pepper to the coating for a spicy kick. Alternatively, swap out paprika for smoked paprika to enhance the dish’s depth. Adjusting spices based on your preferences is a great way to make this dish your own!