Fried shrimp is a delicious, crowd-pleasing dish, but finding the perfect side to complement its crispy, savory goodness can elevate your meal to the next level.
Whether hosting a dinner party or simply craving a tasty dinner, pairing fried shrimp with the right sides can make all the difference.
Imagine biting into juicy shrimp, followed by a refreshing coleslaw or crunchy garlic bread. With 35 expertly curated side dishes, you will surely find the perfect match that will leave your guests asking for seconds.
Ready to discover the ultimate pairings? Let’s dive into the best sides to make your fried shrimp meal unforgettable.
What are the Best Sides for Fried Shrimp?
1. Coleslaw
Coleslaw is a classic, crunchy cabbage salad with a creamy dressing that offers a refreshing contrast to fried shrimp.
Its tangy and slightly sweet flavor balances the richness of the shrimp, making it an ideal side dish.
The crisp texture of the coleslaw enhances the overall dining experience, cutting through the heaviness of the fried main dish.
Variations of coleslaw can include vinegar-based, mayo-based, or even versions mixed with additional vegetables like carrots and apples.
2. French Fries
With their crispy, golden exterior and soft interior, French fries are a perfect accompaniment to fried shrimp.
The salty and crunchy fries complement the soft, juicy shrimp, creating a satisfying balance of textures.
French fries can come in various forms, such as curly fries, sweet potato fries, or seasoned fries, all of which add an enjoyable contrast to the meal.
3. Hush Puppies
Hush puppies, deep-fried cornmeal balls, are a Southern staple that pairs wonderfully with fried shrimp.
Their savory and slightly sweet flavor, along with a crunchy exterior, mirrors the crispy texture of the shrimp while adding a comforting, hearty element to the dish.
Variations such as jalapeño-infused, onion-flavored, or cheese-stuffed hush puppies can further enhance this classic combination.
4. Corn on the Cob
Whether grilled or boiled, corn on the cob provides a sweet, tender counterpoint to the savory flavor of fried shrimp.
The natural sweetness and juicy pop of the corn balance the richness of the shrimp, adding a refreshing burst of flavor.
Variations such as smoked corn, Mexican-style (Elote), or seasoned with spices can elevate this simple yet effective pairing.
5. Garlic Bread
Garlic bread, with its crusty slices topped with garlic butter, offers a rich, savory companion to fried shrimp.
The buttery and garlicky flavors complement the shrimp, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the meal.
Whether cheese-topped, herb-infused, or spiced with red pepper flakes, garlic bread is a versatile side that adds a touch of indulgence.
6. Potato Salad
Potato salad is a cold, creamy dish with a cool, tangy contrast to the hot, crispy fried shrimp.
Its creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet flavor profile complements the savory shrimp, making it a popular choice.
Variations like the German style with vinegar, the Southern style with eggs, or a loaded version with bacon add different dimensions to this classic side.
7. Caesar Salad
With its crisp romaine lettuce, Caesar dressing, croutons, and Parmesan, Caesar salad adds a fresh, crunchy element to the meal.
The rich, tangy, and savory flavors of the salad enhance the shrimp without overwhelming it, making it a well-balanced side dish.
Variations can include the addition of grilled shrimp or chicken or making it vegetarian.
8. Baked Beans
Baked beans are slow-cooked in a sweet and tangy sauce, offering fried shrimp a hearty, comforting side.
Their sweet, savory, and slightly smoky flavor complements the shrimp’s crispiness, providing a rich, flavorful balance.
Variations can include traditional baked beans, vegetarian versions, or spicy options with added jalapeños.
9. Macaroni and Cheese
Macaroni and cheese is a creamy, cheesy pasta dish that pairs decadently with fried shrimp.
The rich, creamy, and buttery flavors of the mac and cheese complement the crispy texture of the shrimp, creating a comforting and indulgent combination.
Variations like adding breadcrumbs, bacon, or jalapeños can enhance this classic side dish.
10. Grilled Vegetables
Grilled vegetables, with their smoky, charred flavor, add a healthy, flavorful balance to a meal centered around fried shrimp.
The slight sweetness and tender texture of vegetables like asparagus, bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the shrimp, making this a nutritious and delicious pairing.
11. Lemon Rice
Lemon rice is a fluffy, citrus-infused side dish with a bright, tangy contrast to fried shrimp. The fresh, zesty flavor of lemon enhances the seafood, creating a harmonious combination.
Variations might include adding herbs like dill, parsley, or basmati rice for an aromatic touch.
12. Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes offer a soft, creamy contrast to the crispy texture of fried shrimp. Their rich, smooth, and comforting flavor provides a satisfying balance to the meal.
Variations like garlic-infused, cheesy, or loaded mashed potatoes with sour cream and chives can add depth to this classic pairing.
13. Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries, with their natural sweetness and crispy exterior, provide a sweet and savory contrast to fried shrimp.
Combining the soft, juicy shrimp and the sweet, crunchy fries creates a delightful balance of flavors.
Variations can include spicing the fries with cinnamon and paprika or serving them with a dipping sauce.
14. Fried Okra
Fried okra, with its crispy, golden-brown exterior, and tender interior, adds a Southern twist to a meal with fried shrimp.
The savory and slightly nutty flavor of fried okra complements the shrimp, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.
Variations might include spiced batter, panko-crusted okra, or serving with dipping sauces.
15. Green Beans
Green beans, whether steamed or sautéed with garlic and herbs, offer a fresh, crisp side that balances the richness of fried shrimp.
Their slightly sweet and tender texture adds a light, healthy element to the meal, making it a well-rounded pairing.
Variations like almondine with slivered almonds, spicy red pepper flakes, or caramelized with onions can enhance flavor.
16. Broccoli Slaw
Broccoli slaw, a crunchy, tangy salad made from shredded broccoli stems, provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of fried shrimp.
Its slightly sweet and tangy flavor complements the savory shrimp, while the crisp texture adds a delightful crunch.
Variations might include adding nuts, dried cranberries, or a creamy dressing.
17. Southern Biscuits
Southern biscuits, with their fluffy, buttery texture, offer a comforting, hearty side to fried shrimp.
The buttery, flaky, and slightly salty flavor of the biscuits complements the shrimp, creating a classic Southern pairing.
Variations like cheddar biscuits, herb-infused biscuits, or honey-glazed biscuits can enhance the experience.
18. Pasta Salad
Pasta salad is a light, tangy side dish that adds freshness and color to a plate of fried shrimp.
The mix of cold pasta and vegetables in a tangy dressing complements the shrimp’s crispy texture, providing a satisfying contrast.
Variations can include Italian-style pasta salad, Greek-style with feta and olives, or versions loaded with fresh vegetables.
19. Zucchini Fritters
Zucchini fritters and crispy pan-fried patties made from zucchini add a light and savory side to fried shrimp.
The slightly sweet and crispy fritters complement the shrimp, creating a balanced meal with various textures.
Variations might include adding cheese, herbs, or spices to enhance the flavor of the fritters.
20. Cucumber Salad
Cucumber salad, a refreshing mix of sliced cucumbers, onions, and a light dressing, provides a cooling contrast to the heat and crunch of fried shrimp.
The salad’s cool, crisp texture and tangy flavor balance the shrimp’s richness, making it a refreshing side dish. Variations might include adding dill, yogurt, or vinegar for different flavors.
21. Tomato and Avocado Salad
Tomato and avocado salad, with its fresh, creamy ingredients, adds a burst of freshness and richness to a meal with fried shrimp.
The salad’s creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors enhance the shrimp, creating a well-rounded dish. Variations might include adding feta cheese, herbs, or a balsamic reduction.
22. Cheddar Bay Biscuits
Cheddar Bay biscuits are soft, cheesy biscuits with a garlic butter glaze that pair perfectly with fried shrimp.
The biscuits’ cheesy, garlicky, and savory flavors complement the shrimp, making them a crowd-pleasing side dish. Variations might include adding herbs or more cheese for extra flavor.
23. Cornbread
Cornbread, with its moist, slightly sweet flavor, is a classic Southern side that pairs well with fried shrimp.
The sweet, buttery, and slightly crumbly texture of the cornbread complements the shrimp, creating a satisfying and comforting combination.
Variations might include jalapeño cornbread, honey cornbread, or cheesy cornbread.
24. Red Beans and Rice
Red beans and rice is a hearty dish with savory, smoky, and slightly spicy flavors that complement the crispy texture of fried shrimp.
This filling and flavorful side dish adds depth and richness to the meal, making it a popular choice. Variations might include vegetarian options, versions with sausage, or a spicy Cajun-style preparation.
25. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Roasted Brussels sprouts, with their caramelized, crispy exterior, add a rich, roasted flavor that contrasts nicely with fried shrimp.
The nutty, slightly sweet, and savory sprouts provide a satisfying balance to the meal. Variations might include adding balsamic glaze, bacon, or Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
26. Grilled Asparagus
Grilled asparagus, with its tender texture and smoky, slightly bitter flavor, adds a touch of elegance to a meal centered around fried shrimp.
The light and healthy side dish complements the shrimp, creating a well-balanced plate. Variations might include lemon zest, garlic butter, or a Parmesan topping.
27. Creamed Spinach
Creamed spinach, with its rich, creamy texture and hint of nutmeg, pairs decadently with fried shrimp.
The savory, creamy, and slightly sweet spinach enhances the shrimp’s crispiness, creating a luxurious and flavorful combination. For extra depth, variations might include adding cheese, garlic, or herbs.
28. Pea Salad
Pea salad, a cold dish with sweet peas, cheese, and a creamy dressing, provides a refreshing side to fried shrimp.
The salad’s sweet, creamy, and slightly tangy flavors balance the shrimp’s richness, adding a pop of color and sweetness to the meal. Variations might include adding bacon, onions, or herbs.
29. Deviled Eggs
Deviled eggs, with their tangy, creamy filling, are a classic appetizer that adds richness and flavor to fried shrimp.
The eggs’ tangy, creamy, and slightly spicy flavors complement the shrimp, making them a popular and versatile side dish. Variations might include spicy versions with cayenne, herbed versions, or bacon-topped eggs.
30. Fruit Salad
Fruit salad, a fresh mix of seasonal fruits, provides a light and refreshing contrast to the richness of fried shrimp.
The fruit’s sweet, juicy, and refreshing flavors balance the shrimp’s savory flavor, making it a perfect side for a summer meal. Variations might include adding mint, citrus dressing, or yogurt for extra flavor.
31. Mango Salsa
Mango salsa, a fresh mix of mango, onions, and cilantro, adds a tropical twist to fried shrimp.
The salsa’s sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy flavor complements the shrimp, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the meal. Variations might include adding jalapeños, lime, or tomatoes for different flavors.
32. Fried Pickles
Fried pickles, with their tangy, salty, and crunchy exterior, add a fun, Southern-inspired side to fried shrimp.
The tangy and savory flavors of the pickles complement the shrimp, creating a satisfying contrast of textures and tastes. Variations might include spicy batter, panko-crusted pickles, or serving them with ranch dressing.
33. Wild Rice Pilaf
Wild rice pilaf, with its nutty, flavorful rice and mixed herbs and vegetables, provides a hearty, flavorful side that pairs well with fried shrimp.
The wild rice’s earthy, savory, and slightly chewy texture complements the shrimp, adding depth and richness to the meal. For extra flavor, variations might include nuts, dried fruit, or mushrooms.
34. Quinoa Salad
Quinoa salad, a light and fluffy dish mixed with vegetables and a tangy dressing, adds a healthy, protein-packed side to fried shrimp.
The quinoa’s nutty, fresh, and slightly tangy flavor complements the shrimp, providing a nutritious balance.
Variations might include a Mediterranean-style salad with feta and olives or a citrusy version with orange segments.
35. Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes
Garlic Parmesan roasted potatoes, with their crispy exterior and savory flavor, provide a flavorful side that pairs well with fried shrimp.
The savory, garlicky, and slightly cheesy potatoes complement the shrimp, satisfying the meal’s crunch. Variations might include adding herbs like rosemary or making them spicy with paprika.
Summing Up
Transforming a simple serving of fried shrimp into a memorable meal is about the right side dishes.
In this guide, we’ve provided 35 side dishes that perfectly complement fried shrimp and offer a variety of flavors and textures.
From the crispiness of garlic bread to the freshness of cucumber salad, these sides enhance the main dish in delightful ways.
Now that you have options explore different pairings and discover your favorites.
Explore our other guides if you want more ideas on elevating your meals. Enjoy your culinary journey!
