Chef Mitchell preparing Crispy Shrimp Patties
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered the joy of making Crispy Shrimp Patties during a summer beach vacation. After experimenting with various ingredients, I finally perfected this recipe that combines fresh shrimp and aromatic spices. It quickly became a family favorite, and I love sharing it with friends and guests at gatherings. Each bite transports me back to those sunny days by the shore."

With over a decade of experience in American cuisine, I specialize in creating delicious appetizers that bring people together. My love for seafood comes from my coastal upbringing, where I learned the art of balancing flavors and textures. I enjoy experimenting with classic recipes, making them accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Crispy Shrimp Patties served on a plate

Why This Crispy Shrimp Patties Recipe Works

This recipe stands out due to its balance of flavors and textures. The combination of fresh shrimp, crisp veggies, and seasoned breadcrumbs creates a delightful bite. Each patty is perfectly crispy on the outside while remaining tender and flavorful inside. It's an easy and versatile dish that appeals to shrimp lovers and newcomers alike.

The key to achieving perfect results lies in the frying technique. Cooking the patties at the right temperature ensures a golden, crispy exterior without overcooking the shrimp inside. This method allows the ingredients to meld beautifully, creating a taste sensation that will have everyone coming back for more.

💡 Professional Tip

For extra crunch, consider double-breading the patties. Dip them in flour, then egg, and finally coat them in breadcrumbs before frying. This technique enhances the crispy texture and creates an even more satisfying crunch on the outside.

Frequently Asked Questions

Absolutely! You can prepare the patties ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to a day. Just make sure to cover them to prevent drying out. When ready to serve, simply heat oil in a skillet and fry them until golden brown. This way, you save time during your event while still serving fresh, hot patties.

If you don't have breadcrumbs, you can use crushed crackers or cornmeal as a substitute. Both options will provide a crispy texture. Alternatively, for a gluten-free option, try using almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs, which will work well in this recipe.

The patties are done when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. You can cut one open to check if the shrimp is cooked through and opaque. The internal temperature should reach at least 145°F (63°C) to ensure they are safe to eat.

Yes, these shrimp patties can be frozen! Place the uncooked patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. To cook, you can fry them straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

These patties are delicious on their own, but they pair wonderfully with dipping sauces like tartar sauce, cocktail sauce, or a spicy remoulade. You might also serve them alongside a fresh salad or slaw for a refreshing contrast.

Cooked Crispy Shrimp Patties can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to place them in an airtight container to maintain freshness. When reheating, aim for a quick re-fry to restore their crispiness.

Yes, you can prepare the mixture for the patties ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just form the patties right before frying for the best texture. This allows for easy preparation and ensures a fresh taste at serving time.

The best way to reheat them is to place the patties in a hot skillet with a little oil over medium heat. Fry them for a few minutes on each side until heated through and crispy again. Avoid using the microwave, as it can result in a soggy texture.

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Not Crispy Enough

Problem: If your patties aren't crispy, it could be due to the oil temperature being too low or overcrowding the pan.

Solution: Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the patties, and fry them in batches to avoid steam buildup, which can lead to sogginess.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: Overcooking can result in a tough texture and loss of flavor.

Prevention: To prevent this, keep a close eye on the cooking time and temperature. Use a thermometer to ensure the shrimp reaches the right internal temperature without overcooking.

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Undercooked Center

Problem: If the center of the patties is undercooked, it may be because they are too thick.

Recovery: To remedy this, flatten the patties a bit more before frying and ensure even cooking by frying at the right temperature.

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Burnt Exterior

Problem: A burnt exterior can occur if the oil is too hot or if the patties are left in the oil for too long.

Prevention: To avoid this, monitor the oil temperature closely and adjust the heat as needed while cooking.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If your patties are too sweet, add a little more salt or acid to balance the flavors.

Too Salty: If the patties are too salty, serve with a side of unsalted dip or sauce to counterbalance.

Bland: If they're bland, consider adding more spices or herbs to the mixture to enhance the flavor next time.

Fresh ingredients for Crispy Shrimp Patties

Essential Ingredients for Crispy Shrimp Patties

The key ingredients for these patties include fresh shrimp, which is the star of the dish. Using high-quality shrimp ensures a delightful flavor and texture. Additionally, breadcrumbs provide the necessary crunch, while vegetables like green onions and bell peppers add freshness and color.

Always opt for fresh or frozen shrimp that is sustainably sourced to get the best flavor. Using homemade breadcrumbs can also elevate the dish, creating a better texture and taste than store-bought options.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Shrimp: Choose high-quality, fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are thawed properly before mixing them into your patties.
  • Breadcrumbs: Using panko breadcrumbs can give your patties an even crispier texture. You can also make your own breadcrumbs using stale bread for a fresher taste.
  • Seasonings: Don't skimp on seasonings! Fresh herbs and spices can elevate your patties. Experimenting with different seasonings like cayenne or smoked paprika can also add unique flavors.
Cooking process for Crispy Shrimp Patties

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

The cooking process for Crispy Shrimp Patties is simple and straightforward. Starting with the preparation of ingredients, ensure everything is chopped and measured before mixing. Forming the patties can be a fun activity, especially when involving children or friends.

Frying the patties in hot oil is where the magic happens. The right temperature will create the perfect golden crust, while keeping the inside juicy. Make sure to let the patties rest for a moment after cooking to enhance the overall texture.

Key Technique for Perfect Crispy Shrimp Patties

The most crucial technique in making Crispy Shrimp Patties is achieving the right frying temperature. This ensures a beautiful golden color and a crispy texture while keeping the shrimp tender and moist inside. Using a thermometer can help monitor the oil temperature, making your cooking consistent and successful.

Crispy Shrimp Patties

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup mayonnaise
    For dipping
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
    Add to the mayonnaise
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
    For flavor
  • 1 tsp hot sauce
    Optional for spice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
    For seasoning

For the Sauce

  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
    Fresh or frozen
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
    For coating
  • 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
    Adds freshness
  • 1/2 cup bell pepper, finely diced
    Adds crunch
  • 1 egg, beaten
    Binding ingredient
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    For flavor
  • 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
    Classic seafood seasoning
  • 1 tsp salt
    For seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
    For seasoning
  • 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
    For freshness
  • Oil for frying
    For cooking

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Shrimp

    In a food processor, pulse the shrimp until coarsely chopped, then transfer to a mixing bowl.

  2. Combine Ingredients

    Add breadcrumbs, green onions, bell pepper, garlic, egg, Old Bay seasoning, salt, black pepper, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and parsley to the chopped shrimp. Mix well.

  3. Form Patties

    Shape the mixture into small patties, about 2 inches in diameter.

  4. Heat the Oil

    In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat until shimmering.

  5. Fry the Patties

    Carefully place patties in the skillet, cooking in batches to avoid overcrowding, for about 4-5 minutes per side or until golden brown.

  6. Drain Excess Oil

    Remove patties from skillet and place them on paper towels to absorb excess oil.

  7. Serve Hot

    Serve immediately while crispy, with your favorite dipping sauce.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store leftover Crispy Shrimp Patties, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat them in a skillet to restore their crispiness before serving. Avoid microwaving, as it may make them soggy.

Serving Suggestions

Crispy Shrimp Patties are best served hot with a variety of dipping sauces like tartar sauce, cocktail sauce, or a spicy remoulade. You can also serve them alongside a light salad or coleslaw for a refreshing contrast.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize the patties by adding diced jalapeños for a spicy kick or substituting crab meat for shrimp. You can also explore different seasonings to match your taste preferences, such as adding ginger or cilantro for an Asian twist.