This Easy Crispy Fried Shrimp Burger is a fun twist on a classic dish! It’s packed with juicy shrimp, crispy edges, and a soft bun that perfectly hugs all those flavors.
These burgers are always a hit at my dinner table. I love topping mine with fresh lettuce and spicy mayo—it feels like a beach day in every bite! 🦐🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Medium-sized shrimp work best for this burger, but feel free to use large shrimp if you prefer. If shrimp isn’t available, consider using crab meat, or even diced fish like cod for a similar texture.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko provides a great crispy texture. If you don’t have it, regular breadcrumbs will work, but the crunch won’t be quite the same. You can also make your own by toasting stale bread and crushing it.
Mayonnaise: I love the creamy texture of mayonnaise in this burger. If you’re looking for a healthier option, Greek yogurt can be a great substitute. Or try using vegan mayo for a plant-based alternative!
Cayenne Pepper: This ingredient gives a little kick. If you’re sensitive to spice, reduce or leave it out. Paprika can provide color without the heat, or go for a milder seasoning like smoked paprika for added flavor.
How Do I Get My Shrimp Perfectly Crispy?
The key to crispy shrimp is all about the breading and frying process. Here’s how to ensure they turn out crunchy:
- Make sure to coat the shrimp in the flour mixture thoroughly. It helps the egg and panko stick better.
- Heat your oil to the right temperature (350°F or 175°C) before adding shrimp. If the oil is too cold, they’ll end up greasy instead of crispy.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! Fry in small batches, allowing the shrimp enough space to cook evenly without steaming.
- Once golden brown, place shrimp on paper towels immediately to absorb excess oil and maintain crispiness.
Follow these steps, and you’ll have shrimp burgers that are crunchier than ever!
Easy Crispy Fried Shrimp Burger
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined (medium size)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for spice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- For Assembling the Burgers:
- 4 burger buns, toasted
- Lettuce leaves
- Tomato slices
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and about 10 minutes to cook, resulting in a total of around 25 minutes. With just a few steps, you’ll have crispy, delicious shrimp burgers ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Breading:
In a shallow bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and some salt and pepper. This will be your flavorful coating for the shrimp. In another bowl, beat the eggs until well combined. Finally, place the panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl for the crispy coating.
2. Breading the Shrimp:
Take each shrimp and dip it first into the seasoned flour mixture, coating it completely. Next, dip the shrimp into the beaten eggs before finally rolling it in the panko breadcrumbs until it’s fully covered. Repeat this for all the shrimp.
3. Frying the Shrimp:
In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat vegetable oil to about 350°F (175°C). Make sure there’s enough oil to submerge the shrimp halfway. Carefully add the breaded shrimp to the hot oil in batches, frying for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the shrimp and drain them on paper towels.
4. Making the Sauce:
While the shrimp is frying, mix together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and chopped parsley in a small bowl. This tangy sauce will add great flavor to your burgers!
5. Assembling the Burgers:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Spread a generous amount of the sauce on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Add a nice handful of the crispy fried shrimp on top, then layer with fresh lettuce leaves and slices of tomato. Cap it off with the top half of the bun.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your delicious shrimp burgers immediately, paired with fries or your favorite side dish. Enjoy every crunchy, flavorful bite!
FAQ for Easy Crispy Fried Shrimp Burger Recipe
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. To do this, place the shrimp in the refrigerator overnight or quickly thaw them under cold running water. Once thawed, pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
How Can I Make the Shrimp Burger Spicier?
If you love heat, increase the cayenne pepper in the breading or add a few dashes of hot sauce to the mayonnaise mixture for an extra kick. You can also add sliced jalapeños or a spicy slaw for an exciting twist!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place the assembled burgers in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat the shrimp in the oven or air fryer to maintain their crispiness, as microwaving can make them soggy.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! The sauce can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using it to ensure all the flavors are well blended!
