Crispy & Flavorful Homemade Shrimp Burgers: Your Ultimate Recipe Guide for a Quick and Delicious Meal
Prepare for a taste sensation that’s big on both flavor and delightful texture with this incredible shrimp burger recipe. Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch from the perfectly fried breadcrumb coating, giving way to a tender, juicy, and incredibly flavorful interior. Forget your preconceived notions about seafood burgers being delicate or bland; these homemade shrimp patties are robust, vibrant, and incredibly easy to make, promising a gourmet experience right in your kitchen.
Why This Easy Shrimp Burger Recipe Will Be Your New Favorite
We’re passionate about exploring creative and delicious ways to make a succulent burger, especially when starting with a fresh seafood base. From classic fish burgers to rich salmon burgers, we’ve experimented with them all. But this shrimp burger truly stands out as a unique and irresistible option. It’s a fantastic alternative to traditional beef burgers, offering a lighter, fresher, yet equally satisfying meal that’s perfect for any day of the week.
This particular shrimp burger recipe masterfully blends vibrant flavors and textures. It features succulent shrimp combined with tangy Dijon mustard, finely chopped red onion for a subtle bite, and the iconic, savory kick of Old Bay seasoning. The magic happens when these flavorful patties are coated in finely processed crispy breadcrumbs, ensuring a golden, crunchy exterior when fried in a skillet. This breadcrumb crust isn’t just for texture; it also helps seal in the moisture, keeping the inside incredibly tender and juicy.
Beyond its incredible taste and satisfying texture, one of the biggest reasons this recipe works so well is its efficiency. These gourmet-quality shrimp burgers are ready to eat in an impressive 30 minutes, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights or when you need a quick, delicious meal without compromising on flavor. It’s a testament to simple ingredients coming together to create something truly extraordinary. Plus, the preparation method, which combines both coarsely chopped and finely processed shrimp, guarantees a patty that holds together beautifully while offering varied textures in every bite.
Key Ingredients for the Best Shrimp Burgers
Crafting these delicious shrimp burgers requires a thoughtful selection of fresh ingredients and pantry staples. While the full list with precise measurements is available in the printable recipe card at the end of this post, let’s dive into what you’ll need and why each component is essential for achieving the perfect flavor and texture.
Ingredient Spotlight & Expert Tips
Understanding each ingredient’s role can help you master this recipe and even inspire creative substitutions.
- SHRIMP: You will need one pound of large raw shrimp. It’s crucial that they are peeled, deveined, and have their tail shells removed. We highly recommend against using precooked shrimp, as they tend to become rubbery and lose their natural sweetness during the cooking process. Raw shrimp will provide the best texture and flavor. If you’re using frozen shrimp, the quickest way to thaw them is to place them in a large resealable bag and submerge it in a bowl of cold water for about 20 minutes. Avoid using hot water, as it can partially cook the shrimp. For best results, use shrimp that are roughly 21-25 count per pound (large) to ensure enough meat for forming substantial patties.
- PANKO BREADCRUMBS: Panko is key for achieving that ultimate crispiness. Its flaky texture absorbs less oil and results in a lighter, crunchier coating compared to regular breadcrumbs. We’ll be processing them slightly to create a finer crumb, which helps them adhere better to the patties and fry more evenly.
- UNSALTED BUTTER: Softened, but not melted, butter adds richness and helps bind the shrimp mixture together, contributing to a juicier patty. If you only have salted butter, you can use it, but reduce the added garlic salt slightly to balance the flavors.
- DIJON MUSTARD: This provides a wonderful tangy depth that complements the sweetness of the shrimp beautifully. Don’t skip it! It adds a subtle sharpness that elevates the overall flavor profile.
- OLD BAY SEASONING: The star spice of seafood! Old Bay brings a signature savory, slightly spicy, and aromatic blend of spices that is synonymous with delicious seafood. It’s non-negotiable for that authentic flavor.
- GARLIC SALT: This provides both garlic flavor and seasoning. We divide it to incorporate some into the patty mixture and some into the breadcrumb coating for an all-around flavor punch.
- OLIVE OIL: Used for sautéing the red onions and as part of the initial cooking oil. Choose a good quality extra virgin olive oil for flavor, or a lighter olive oil for a higher smoke point.
- MINCED RED ONION: Sautéing red onion brings a sweet and savory base to the patty, adding a layer of aromatic flavor without being overpowering. Ensure it’s minced finely so it blends seamlessly into the burger mixture.
- OIL FOR FRYING: A neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil, is best for frying the shrimp burgers to a golden crisp.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Crispy Shrimp Burgers
These step-by-step photos and detailed instructions are here to guide you through the process, helping you visualize how to create this delicious recipe. For a printable version, complete with all measurements and instructions, simply Jump to Recipe at the bottom of this post.
- Prepare the Panko: Place the panko breadcrumbs into a mini food chopper. Blend them for a few seconds until they have a finer, more uniform crumb. This step is crucial for ensuring the coating adheres well to the patties and cooks evenly. Transfer the processed crumbs to a large mixing bowl.
- Prepare the Shrimp Base (Part 1): Ensure your shrimp are completely peeled and deveined, with all tail shells removed. Coarsely chop all the shrimp into medium-sized chunks. Then, take half of the chopped shrimp and place it into your mini food chopper.
- Flavor the First Half of Shrimp: To the shrimp in the chopper, add the softened butter, Dijon mustard, half of the Old Bay seasoning, and half of the garlic salt. Blend this mixture until it forms a smooth paste with no visible chunks. This creates a flavorful, binding base for your burgers.
- Incorporate Remaining Shrimp: Add the remaining coarsely chopped shrimp to the chopper with the paste. Blend again, but this time, pulse it just until the shrimp is finely chopped and well combined with the paste, leaving some small, discernible pieces for texture. Avoid over-blending, as you don’t want a completely smooth puree; some texture is desirable. Transfer this shrimp mixture to a large bowl.
- Season the Coating: To the bowl containing the processed panko breadcrumbs, add the remaining garlic salt and Old Bay seasoning. Whisk these ingredients together thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of flavor in your crispy coating.
- Sauté the Onions: Heat the two tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add the minced red onions and cook them until they are tender and slightly translucent, which usually takes about 2 minutes. This step softens the onions and brings out their natural sweetness.
- Combine Ingredients for Patties: Add the sautéed red onions to the shrimp mixture in the large bowl. Stir everything together gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.
- Form the Patties: Divide the shrimp mixture into three equal portions. Take one portion and gently form it into a burger patty, about 3/4 to 1 inch thick. Ensure the edges are smooth to help them hold together during frying.
- Coat the Patties: Carefully press each patty into the seasoned breadcrumb mixture, ensuring that a generous layer of crumbs adheres to both sides and the edges. Repeat this process for the remaining two patties. This coating is what will give your shrimp burgers their irresistible crispy texture.
- Heat the Frying Oil: In your skillet, add enough cooking oil to reach a depth of about an inch up the sides of the pan. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches a temperature of 350°F (175°C).
EXPERT TIP: Maintaining the correct oil temperature is paramount when frying. If the oil isn’t hot enough, the patties will absorb too much oil, resulting in a greasy, soggy burger rather than a beautifully crispy one. If the oil is too hot, the exterior will burn before the interior is cooked through. Using a clip-on thermometer is highly recommended to accurately gauge and maintain the oil’s temperature throughout the frying process. Adjust the heat as needed to keep it consistent.
- Fry to Golden Perfection: Carefully add the breaded shrimp patties to the hot oil. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the shrimp should reach 145°F (63°C). Once cooked, remove the patties from the skillet and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for Shrimp Burgers
Leftover shrimp burgers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze cooked patties for up to 1 month. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
To maintain crispiness, avoid the microwave. Reheat leftover shrimp burgers in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, or in a skillet over medium-low heat with a small amount of oil until warmed through and crispy again. Frozen patties can be reheated directly in the oven or air fryer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
While frying yields the crispiest result, you can certainly bake or grill them. To bake, place breaded patties on a greased baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and cooked through. For grilling, lightly brush the patties with oil and grill over medium heat for 3-5 minutes per side, ensuring they don’t stick. The texture won’t be as crispy as fried, but they will still be delicious.
This usually happens if the shrimp mixture isn’t processed enough or if there isn’t enough binder (like butter). Ensure you blend half the shrimp into a paste to help bind the patties. Also, when forming the patties, press them firmly but gently. Chilling the patties for 15-20 minutes before frying can also help them hold their shape better, especially if your mixture seems a bit loose.
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile. Fresh herbs like chopped parsley, cilantro, or dill can add a wonderful freshness. A pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika can introduce a subtle heat or smoky flavor. You could also experiment with a dash of Worcestershire sauce for added umami. Feel free to customize to your preference!
Delicious Serving Suggestions for Your Shrimp Burgers
Once your crispy shrimp burgers are hot and ready, it’s time to assemble the perfect meal! While they’re fantastic on their own, the right accompaniments can elevate them even further. Serve your shrimp burgers on toasted brioche buns or soft potato rolls for a delightful contrast in texture. For a lighter option, you can even serve them in lettuce wraps.
Classic sides that pair beautifully with these flavorful patties include crispy potato chips, golden french fries, sweet potato fries, or a refreshing coleslaw. For something heartier, a creamy mac and cheese makes an indulgent side. We love to dress our shrimp burgers with fresh toppings like crisp lettuce, thinly sliced red onion, and ripe tomato for added freshness and crunch.
Here are some fantastic sauces to try on top of your shrimp burger, offering a variety of flavor profiles:
- Homemade Teriyaki Sauce: Adds a sweet and savory, umami-rich glaze.
- Classic Tartar Sauce: A timeless pairing for seafood, offering a creamy, tangy complement.
- Zesty Yum Yum Sauce: A sweet and savory Japanese-inspired sauce that adds a creamy, irresistible kick.
- Fragrant Rosemary Cream Sauce: For an elegant touch, this creamy herb sauce provides a rich, aromatic counterpoint.
- Smoky Dr. Pepper Barbecue Sauce: If you’re looking for a sweet and tangy BBQ twist, this unexpected sauce works wonderfully.
You can also quickly whip up a simple custom sauce. Try mixing Old Bay seasoning with mayonnaise for a classic, savory spread that enhances the burger’s inherent flavors. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, blend Cajun seasoning with mayonnaise to create a spicy, zesty aioli. Don’t be afraid to experiment with your favorite condiments, from a squeeze of fresh lime juice to a dollop of avocado crema. Enjoy creating your perfect shrimp burger experience!
More Delicious Seafood Recipes to Explore
If you loved these shrimp burgers, you’re sure to enjoy these other fantastic seafood-inspired dishes:
- Classic Fish Burger: A simple yet satisfying fish patty, perfect for a lighter meal.
- Homemade Crab Cakes: Indulgent and flavorful, these crab cakes are a true treat.
- Hearty Salmon Burger: Another great alternative to beef, packed with healthy omega-3s.
- Savory Korean Fish Cakes: An intriguing and delicious side dish or snack.
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Crispy & Flavorful Shrimp Burger
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Ingredients
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs processed finer
- 1 pound large raw shrimp peeled, deveined, tails removed
- 3 Tablespoons unsalted butter well softened but not melted
- 1 ½ Tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 Tablespoon Old Bay seasoning divided
- 2 teaspoons garlic salt divided
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil
- ¼ cup minced red onion
- cooking oil for frying (e.g., vegetable, canola)
Things You’ll Need
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Mini food chopper
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Mixing bowls
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Large heavy bottomed skillet
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Clip-on thermometer (optional, but recommended)
Before You Begin
- You will need a pound of large raw shrimp that have been peeled and deveined with the tail shells removed. I would not suggest using precooked shrimp as they tend to become rubbery. To thaw frozen shrimp quickly, place them in a large ziptop bag and submerge them in a bowl of cold water for around 20 minutes. Ensure all tails are completely removed for proper blending and patty formation.
Instructions
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Place panko bread crumbs in a mini food chopper and blend until they have a smaller, finer crumb. This fine texture helps them adhere better. Place these processed crumbs into a large mixing bowl.
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Ensure all shrimp are completely peeled and deveined, with no tail shells remaining. Coarsely chop all the shrimp into medium chunks. Then, place HALF of the chopped shrimp into the mini food chopper.
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To the shrimp in the chopper, add the softened butter, Dijon mustard, half of the Old Bay seasoning, and half of the garlic salt. Blend this mixture until it forms a smooth, cohesive paste with no large chunks remaining.
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Add the remaining coarsely chopped shrimp to the chopper. Blend again, pulsing just until the shrimp is finely chopped and well incorporated into the paste, leaving some small pieces for texture. Transfer this mixture to a large bowl.
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To the bread crumb bowl, add the remaining garlic salt and Old Bay seasoning. Whisk these ingredients together thoroughly to create your seasoned crispy coating.
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Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add the minced red onions and cook until they are tender and slightly translucent, about 2 minutes.
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Add the sautéed onions to the shrimp mixture and stir until everything is well combined. This adds a delicious savory depth to the patties.
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Divide the shrimp mixture into three equal portions and form each portion into a burger patty, about 3/4 to 1 inch thick. Ensure they are firm and well-shaped.
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Press each patty into the seasoned bread crumb mixture, ensuring a generous and even coating adheres to both sides and the edges. Repeat for the remaining two patties.
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To the skillet, add enough cooking oil to come about an inch up the sides of the pan. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches a temperature of 350°F (175°C).
EXPERT TIP – It’s critically important to maintain the correct temperature of your oil when frying. Too low a temperature will cause the patties to absorb excess oil, leading to a soggy texture, while too high a temperature risks burning the coating before the shrimp is cooked through. Use a clip-on thermometer to accurately gauge and adjust the temperature as needed for consistently crispy and perfectly cooked burgers.
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Carefully add the breaded patties to the hot oil. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). Remove to a wire rack to drain excess oil. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Expert Tips & FAQs
- Storage: Store any leftover shrimp burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. For longer storage, freeze cooked patties for up to 1 month, wrapped individually.
- Reheating: For best crispiness, reheat in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway. A skillet over medium-low heat also works well.
- Preventing Fall-Apart Patties: Ensure about half the shrimp is processed into a paste-like consistency to act as a binder. Firmly but gently form patties. Chilling formed patties for 15-20 minutes before frying can greatly improve their stability.
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with adding a pinch of cayenne for heat, a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness, or chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to the shrimp mixture.
- Oil Temperature is Key: As noted in the instructions, consistent oil temperature (350°F / 175°C) is crucial for a crispy, non-soggy exterior. Use a thermometer!
Nutrition
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.