Hey there, seafood lovers! Today we’re diving deep into something that’s been on many people’s minds – Popeyes shrimp You might know Popeyes for their crazy-good chicken sandwich that broke the internet, but their seafood game? That’s what we’re here to talk about
The Quick Answer
Yes, Popeyes shrimp is generally good, especially their Spicy Popcorn Shrimp and upgraded Cajun Flounder Sandwich with shrimp. But like anything in life, there’s more to the story than just a simple yes or no.
Breaking Down Popeyes Shrimp Options
1. Popcorn Shrimp
This is probably their most popular shrimp offering, and here’s what you need to know
Pros
- Crispy, crunchy coating
- Signature Cajun seasoning that gives it a nice kick
- Decent portion size for the price
- Perfect for dipping in their various sauces
Cons:
- Some pieces can be a bit overcooked
- Only available in combo meals now
- Quality can vary by location
2. Butterfly Shrimp (When Available)
These bad boys are usually a summer special, but when they’re around:
Pros:
- Larger shrimp size
- More substantial bite
- Same great Cajun seasoning
- Great texture contrast
Cons:
- Limited availability
- Slightly pricier option
- Can be inconsistent in size
What Makes Their Shrimp Special?
Popeyes uses their signature Cajun seasoning blend on their shrimp, which includes:
- Paprika
- Cayenne pepper
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Black pepper
- Various other Cajun spices
Best Dipping Sauces for Popeyes Shrimp
I’ve tried all their sauces (yes, seriously), and here are the best matches:
- Bayou Buffalo – Adds extra heat with a tangy kick
- Blackened Ranch – Perfect if you want something creamy with a bit of spice
- Buttermilk Ranch – Great for cooling down the spicy seasoning
- Cocktail Sauce – A classic pairing that never fails
How Does It Compare to Other Fast-Food Shrimp?
Here’s a quick comparison table based on recent taste tests:
| Restaurant | Shrimp Quality | Value | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Popeyes | Good | Good | 8/10 |
| Long John Silver’s | Average | Fair | 6/10 |
| Arthur Treacher’s | Below Average | Poor | 5/10 |
| Culver’s | Very Good | Good | 9/10 |
Tips for the Best Popeyes Shrimp Experience
- Order Fresh: Try to visit during peak hours when they’re making fresh batches
- Check for Deals: They often have seafood specials during Lent
- Customize: Don’t be afraid to ask for extra seasoning
- Mix and Match: Try combining with their other sides like Cajun fries or biscuits
When to Skip It
Look, I gotta keep it real with you. There are times when you might wanna pass:
- If the location seems slow/not busy (older shrimp)
- During very late hours
- If you’re not into spicy food (their seasoning has a kick)
The Bottom Line
Is Popeyes shrimp worth your money? In my opinion, yes – especially if you’re a fan of their signature Cajun seasoning. While it might not be the fanciest seafood you’ll ever eat, it’s definitely one of the better fast-food shrimp options out there.
For the best experience, I’d recommend trying their popcorn shrimp first. It’s their most consistent offering and gives you the best bang for your buck. Plus, it’s perfect for sharing (though you might not want to once you taste it ).
FAQs About Popeyes Shrimp
Q: Is it available year-round?
A: The popcorn shrimp usually is, but specialty items like butterfly shrimp are seasonal.
Q: How spicy is it really?
A: It’s got a kick, but it’s not overwhelming. I’d rate it 6/10 on the spice scale.
Q: Can I get it without the spicy seasoning?
A: Unfortunately, no. The seasoning is pre-mixed with the breading.
Q: What’s the best value option?
A: The combo meals usually give you the most bang for your buck, especially with the sides included.
Remember, at the end of the day, fast food is fast food. While Popeyes shrimp might not replace your favorite seafood restaurant, it’s a solid option when you’re craving something quick and tasty with that signature Louisiana kick.
So next time you’re at Popeyes and thinking about trying something different from their famous chicken, give the shrimp a shot. You might just find your new favorite fast-food seafood option!
And hey, if you’ve tried Popeyes shrimp before, what did you think? Drop a comment below – I’d love to hear your experience!
Long John Silver’s: Coconut Shrimp Snack Box
Price: $3.49
Menu Description: n/a
My thoughts: There was plenty of shrimp in this snack box, though it had the same texture and taste of the frozen shrimp you can get in your grocer’s freezer. BYOB your own cocktail sauce since the restaurant doesn’t offer any. There was nothing special or memorable about this shrimp dish.
Arthur Treacher’s Fish & Chips: Batter Dipt Butterfly Shrimp
Price: $9.49
Menu description: Six pieces of batter-dipt butterfly shrimp, a generous portion of our crispy chips, and two savory hush puppies.
My thoughts: If you are a fan of Arthur Treacher’s signature batter, this butterfly shrimp dish could be a winner in your book. But we were not ranking batter here. Sadly, with so much of the crunchy coating, the shrimp got lost amid the coating, and in at least two cases, was non-existent — only the tail survived the frying process.