Southern-Style Fried Crawfish Tails You’ll Crave Every Time

Fried Crowfish Tails
Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 10 mins
Total Time 30 mins
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Beginner
Cooking Temp: 350  F
Servings: 6
Estimated Cost: $  12
Calories: 290
Best Season: Spring, Fall
Description

These crispy fried crawfish tails are a Southern favorite — golden, crunchy, and loaded with Cajun flavor. Perfect for appetizers, po' boys, or party platters, this easy recipe uses a seasoned cornmeal and flour coating to deliver mouthwatering bites every time. Whether you’re bringing the spirit of Louisiana to your table or looking for a quick and satisfying seafood dish, these fried crawfish tails will hit the spot.

Ingredients
  • 1 lb crawfish tails (peeled, cooked or raw)
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet)
  • Salt & black pepper to taste
  • Vegetable oil for frying (canola or peanut recommended)
  • Fresh lemon wedges (for serving)
  • Chopped parsley (optional garnish)
Instructions
  1. 1
    In a medium bowl, combine buttermilk and hot sauce. Add the crawfish tails and let them soak for 15–30 minutes in the fridge. This tenderizes the meat and allows the flavors to penetrate.
  2. 2
    In a shallow dish, mix cornmeal, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
  3. 3
    Pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet or Dutch oven until it’s about 2 inches deep. Heat to 350°F (175°C) using a thermometer for accuracy.
  4. 4
    Take each crawfish tail from the marinade, shake off the excess buttermilk, and dredge it in the cornmeal-flour mixture. Press gently to coat evenly.
  5. 5
    Carefully place coated tails into the hot oil in small batches. Fry for 2–3 minutes, turning once, until golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
  6. 6
    Remove fried crawfish with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of chopped parsley.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 6

Amount Per Serving
Calories 290kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 18g28%
Saturated Fat 3g15%
Sodium 470mg20%
Total Carbohydrate 17g6%
Dietary Fiber 1g4%
Sugars 1g
Protein 18g36%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.