Ruth Chris Calamari Recipe: Crispy Golden Rings With Garlic Butter Dip

Achieving restaurant-quality calamari at home is easier than you think. This proven method delivers crispy, golden rings every time, with a garlic butter dip that elevates the dish to new heights.

The secret lies in proper preparation and precise cooking. Double-dipping the squid in flour and cornmeal ensures a shatteringly crispy exterior, while quick frying prevents rubbery texture.

What emerges from the fryer is perfectly tender calamari with a golden, crunchy coating. The garlic butter dip adds richness that complements the seafood beautifully.

Serve immediately for the best texture. This technique works consistently in any home kitchen.

Ingredients for Ruth Chris Calamari

Fresh squid, a crispy double-dredge, and a rich garlic butter finish deliver restaurant-quality results at home.

The squid is non-negotiable—fresh calamari tubes are ideal, but high-quality frozen works if thawed properly. Whole Foods or a trusted seafood market will have the best selection. Look for opaque white flesh with a faint sweet odor; any ammonia smell means it’s past its prime. The cornmeal is key for that signature Ruth’s Chris crunch, so don’t substitute with breadcrumbs (they absorb too much oil).

No buttermilk? Whole milk with a splash of vinegar at a 1:1 ratio works in a pinch. Skipping the baking powder? The coating will still crisp, but it won’t have that extra lift. For the garlic butter, European-style butter (like Plugrá) has a richer flavor, but any unsalted will do. The parsley is optional, but it adds a fresh contrast to the richness of the dish.

Fry in small batches to avoid temperature drops—325°F to 350°F is the sweet spot. Drain on a rack, not paper towels, to keep them crisp. The garlic butter can be made ahead and reheated gently. Leftovers? Honestly, calamari is best eaten fresh, but it’ll keep for 1-2 days in the fridge (reheat in the oven to revive some crunch).

Step-by-Step Instructions for Crispy Calamari With Garlic Butter Dip

Master these steps to achieve restaurant-quality texture and flavor in every bite.

Step 1: Prepare the Calamari for Maximum Tenderness

Begin by patting the 1.5 lb Calamari Rings completely dry with paper towels. This step is crucial—any residual moisture will prevent the coating from adhering properly and create steam during frying, which results in soggy calamari instead of crispy.

Place the dried calamari rings in a bowl and pour the 0.5 cup Buttermilk over them. Stir to ensure all pieces are coated, then let them soak for 15 minutes. The buttermilk tenderizes the squid while the acidity helps the coating stick better during frying.

Step 2: Create the Crispy Coating Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 1 cup All-Purpose Flour, 1 cup Fine Cornmeal, 1 tbsp Kosher Salt, 1 tsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper, 1 tsp Paprika, 1 tsp Garlic Powder, and 0.5 tsp Baking Powder. The baking powder creates tiny air pockets in the coating, enhancing its crispiness.

This blend delivers the perfect balance of crunch and seasoning. The cornmeal provides that signature texture, while the flour helps bind everything together. Make sure the mixture is uniform with no clumps before you begin coating the calamari.

Step 3: Fry to Golden Perfection

Heat the 4 cups Vegetable Oil in a deep, heavy pot or Dutch oven to 350°F. Use a deep-fry thermometer for precision—oil temperature is critical for even cooking. While the oil heats, remove the calamari from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off, then dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

Working in batches to avoid crowding, carefully lower the coated calamari into the hot oil. Fry for 2-3 minutes until the coating turns deep golden brown and the calamari floats to the surface. Drain on a wire rack or paper towels to maintain crispness.

Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Butter Dip

While the calamari fries, melt the 0.5 cup Unsalted Butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add the 6 cloves Garlic Cloves (minced) and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Stir in the 0.25 cup Fresh Parsley (finely chopped) and remove from heat.

This dip should be warm and aromatic when served. The garlic infuses the butter with robust flavor, while the parsley adds a fresh, herbal note that cuts through the richness. Transfer to a small bowl for serving.

Step 5: Serve Immediately with Lemon Wedges

Arrange the fried calamari on a serving platter alongside the 1 whole Lemon Wedges. Serve the garlic butter dip on the side or drizzled lightly over the top. The acidity from the lemon brightens the dish and complements the savory, crispy calamari perfectly.

For best results, serve immediately while hot. The contrast between the crispy exterior and tender interior is what makes this dish exceptional. Any leftovers should be reheated in the oven to revive the texture.

Health Benefits of This Recipe

Lean Protein Source

Calamari is an excellent low-fat protein option, with a 4-ounce serving providing about 15 grams of protein and only 1 gram of fat. This makes it a great choice for maintaining muscle health without excess calories. I love how it fits into a balanced diet so effortlessly. 💪

Rich in Omega-3s

This dish delivers omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart and brain health. A 3.5-ounce serving contains roughly 0.5 grams of EPA and DHA, essential fatty acids that reduce inflammation and improve cardiovascular function.

Low Calorie Option

When prepared properly, calamari is relatively low in calories—about 90-100 calories per 3.5-ounce serving before frying. The key is using a light coating and draining well after frying to minimize excess oil absorption. This makes it easier to enjoy guilt-free. 💛

Vitamin and Mineral Boost

Squid is packed with essential nutrients like vitamin B12, selenium, and zinc. A single serving provides nearly 80% of your daily B12 needs, which supports nerve function and energy production.

Quick Energy Source

The cornmeal and flour coating adds a modest amount of carbohydrates, giving you a quick energy boost. This makes calamari a satisfying appetizer that won’t leave you feeling overly full before the main course.

Gluten-Free Adaptable

With a simple swap of all-purpose flour for gluten-free flour and ensuring your cornmeal is certified gluten-free, this dish can easily fit into a gluten-free diet. Just double-check all labels to avoid cross-contamination.

Frequently Asked Questions