Mini Shrimp Po' Boys

Name: Mini Shrimp Po' Boys
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup cornmeal; 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning; 1 teaspoon salt; Vegetable oil for frying; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons hot sauce; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 8 mini baguettes or slider rolls; Shredded lettuce; Sliced tomatoes; Pickles

Highlighted under: World Cuisine Recipes

I absolutely love making Mini Shrimp Po' Boys for gatherings. They are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making them a perfect treat for both casual get-togethers and celebratory occasions. Each bite is packed with flavor, thanks to the crispy shrimp and zesty sauce. These Po' Boys are sure to impress your guests, and the mini size means everyone can enjoy one without feeling too full. I guarantee they will be a hit at your next event!

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2026-01-30T17:59:10.128Z

When I first tried making Mini Shrimp Po' Boys, I didn't realize how flavorful they would turn out. The trick is in the seasoning of the shrimp and the fresh toppings. The blend of spices really brings the dish to life, while the creamy sauce ties everything together. I always use a mix of spices that I feel enhances the seafood without overpowering its natural flavor.

I've experimented with different types of bread for these sandwiches, and I've found that mini baguettes work beautifully. They not only add a nice crunch, but they also hold up wonderfully against the crispy shrimp and rich sauce. Trust me, using fresh ingredients will make all the difference in your Po' Boys!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Crispy shrimp with a burst of southern flavor
Zesty sauce that compliments the shrimp perfectly
Mini size makes them easy to serve and eat

Understanding Shrimp Preparation

When preparing shrimp for Mini Shrimp Po' Boys, it’s essential to start with fresh or properly thawed shrimp. Rinse them under cold water, ensuring to remove any residual shells or tails. Soaking the shrimp in buttermilk not only tenderizes the meat but helps the coating adhere better during frying. Allowing the shrimp to marinate for at least 15 minutes gives you a richer flavor, but don’t exceed 30 minutes to avoid a mushy texture.

The dredging process is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy exterior. Ensure you fully coat each shrimp in the seasoned flour mixture. A light dusting is best; if there’s too much flour, it can create an overly thick batter that won't crisp up nicely. For an even crunchier texture, you can double dredge by soaking the shrimp back in buttermilk and re-coating them in the flour mixture before frying.

Tips for Frying Shrimp

To achieve perfectly fried shrimp, heat your vegetable oil to about 350°F (175°C). Use a deep-fry thermometer to maintain accuracy. If the oil is too cool, the shrimp will absorb excess oil, becoming greasy instead of crispy. Conversely, oil that's too hot can scorch the coating before the shrimp cooks through. Working in batches of 5-6 shrimp will prevent the oil temperature from dropping too quickly and ensure each piece gets even heat.

Once fried, drain the shrimp on paper towels to remove excess oil and provide a quick resolution to any crispy texture regrets. I recommend placing the fried shrimp on a wire rack set over a baking sheet instead, allowing air to circulate and keeping the bottom from becoming soggy from steam.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients for these tasty Mini Shrimp Po' Boys!

For the Shrimp

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornmeal
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon salt
Vegetable oil for frying

For the Sauce

1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons hot sauce
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

For Assembly

8 mini baguettes or slider rolls
Shredded lettuce
Sliced tomatoes
Pickles

Make sure everything is fresh to enhance the flavors!

Instructions

Let's get cooking!

Prepare the Shrimp

In a large bowl, soak the shrimp in buttermilk for at least 15 minutes. Meanwhile, in another bowl, mix the flour, cornmeal, Cajun seasoning, and salt.

Fry the Shrimp

Heat oil in a deep skillet. Dredge each shrimp in the flour mixture and fry until golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.

Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, hot sauce, lemon juice, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Assemble the Po' Boys

Slice the mini baguettes or slider rolls and spread a generous amount of sauce on each side. Layer with shredded lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and top with crispy shrimp.

Enjoy your delicious Mini Shrimp Po' Boys!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the shrimp mix.

Serving Suggestions

These Mini Shrimp Po' Boys are best assembled just before serving. You can keep the shrimp warm in a low oven (around 200°F or 93°C) while you prepare the toppings. For an elevated touch, consider adding coleslaw – the crunch and tang can enhance the Southern flavors of the dish. You can also serve with a side of extra dipping sauce for those who love a bit more zing on their bites.

If you have extra sauce, think about using it as a dressing for salads or as a dip for vegetables. The zesty flavor profile pairs well with a variety of fresh salads. It’s a versatile way to use leftovers without feeling repetitive.

Make-Ahead Tips

For a time-saving approach, you can prepare the shrimp and sauce a day in advance. Cook the shrimp, then allow it to cool and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, briefly reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. This will ensure they retain their crispiness while making the day of your gathering much more manageable.

You can also prep the sauce ahead of time; it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. The flavors will even develop more as they sit, resulting in a sauce that's not only delicious but ready when you are. Just give it a stir before using it to ensure everything is well combined.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before use.

→ What can I substitute for buttermilk?

You can use regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice as a substitute.

→ Can these be made in advance?

Yes, you can fry the shrimp ahead of time and reheat them in the oven to maintain their crispiness.

→ What else can I add to the Po' Boys?

Feel free to add avocado, or a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs for additional flavor.