If you are craving a dish that bursts with fresh, oceanic flavor and cozy, crispy texture, look no further than this fantastic Shrimp Cakes Recipe. These golden patties are packed with tender shrimp, vibrant green onions, and just the right hint of Old Bay seasoning, making every bite a delightful fusion of savory and bright. Whether you’re cooking for a casual weeknight dinner or impressing guests at your next gathering, this recipe delivers easy-to-follow steps and irresistible taste that will quickly make it a beloved favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is a breeze, and each one plays an important role in ensuring your shrimp cakes turn out perfectly balanced in flavor and texture. From the succulent shrimp to the crispy panko breadcrumbs, these essentials come together for a mouthwatering result.
- 1 pound raw shrimp peeled, deveined, and chopped: The star of the dish, providing tender, juicy seafood flavor.
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs: Adds the perfect crunch and helps hold the cakes together.
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise: Brings moistness and a creamy texture to the mixture.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a binder to keep everything in shape while cooking.
- 2 green onions finely chopped: Infuses a fresh, mild onion flavor and adds bright color.
- 2 cloves garlic minced: Provides an aromatic depth that complements the shrimp nicely.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle tangy kick that brightens the flavor profile.
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning: Classic seafood spice blend that enhances the cakes’ savory notes.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances and heightens all the dish’s flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle warmth and spice.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley finely chopped: Offers a fresh herbaceous touch and lovely color contrast.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil for frying: Essential for achieving that crisp, golden exterior.
- Lemon wedges for serving: Bring bright acidity that cuts through the richness perfectly.
How to Make Shrimp Cakes Recipe
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, start by mixing the chopped shrimp with the panko breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, and egg. These create the base that binds everything deliciously together. Then, fold in the finely chopped green onions, garlic, Dijon mustard, Old Bay seasoning, salt, black pepper, and fresh parsley. This step ensures each shrimp cake will be bursting with layers of flavor and a hint of herb freshness.
Step 2: Shape the Patties
Once your mixture is well combined, it’s time for some hands-on fun. Shape the mixture into 8 to 10 small round patties, aiming for even sizes so they cook uniformly. This is where the magic begins to take form, as the shrimp cakes take their iconic crunchy-and-tender identity.
Step 3: Fry to Golden Perfection
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp cakes in batches, avoiding overcrowding the pan so they sear beautifully. Cook each side for about 3 to 4 minutes, or until the exterior turns a gorgeous golden brown and the cakes are cooked through. This method gives you that perfect contrast of crispy outside and juicy inside.
Step 4: Drain and Serve
Transfer your cooked shrimp cakes to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. This final touch ensures they stay delightfully crispy without being greasy. Serve them warm, paired beautifully with fresh lemon wedges or your favorite dipping sauce to elevate every bite.
How to Serve Shrimp Cakes Recipe
Garnishes
Adding the right garnishes can turn these humble shrimp cakes into a show-stopping dish. Try sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or chives over the top for a burst of green vibrancy. A squeeze of lemon juice just before serving adds an irresistible brightness that complements the savory cakes perfectly.
Side Dishes
Consider pairing your shrimp cakes with light, fresh sides that balance their richness. A crisp mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, creamy coleslaw, or roasted asparagus all work beautifully. For something heartier, a side of garlic mashed potatoes or coconut rice can transform this appetizer into a fulfilling meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your shrimp cakes topped with a dollop of aioli or tartar sauce and sprinkled with finely chopped red chili for a pop of heat. You can also create mini slider-style sandwiches with brioche buns and crunchy slaw for a party-perfect presentation. No matter how you plate them, these cakes always bring excitement to the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover shrimp cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for up to 3 days. This makes them perfect for quick lunches or snacks. When reheating, take care to warm them gently so they keep their crisp exterior without drying out.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy your Shrimp Cakes Recipe at a later date, they freeze very well. Simply place uncooked shaped patties on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen shrimp cakes can last up to 1 month, ready to cook straight from the freezer with just a few extra minutes added to the cooking time.
Reheating
To reheat, warm shrimp cakes in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until heated through, which helps maintain their crispiness better than microwaving. If using a microwave, cover lightly and heat in short bursts to avoid sogginess. A quick skillet re-fry over medium heat also works wonders to refresh their crunch.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this Shrimp Cakes Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp thoroughly and pat them dry before chopping so you don’t add extra moisture to the mixture. This prevents the cakes from becoming too wet and helps them hold together nicely.
What is the best way to shape the shrimp cakes?
Using slightly wet hands can help prevent sticking as you form the patties. Aim for uniform thickness and diameter so they cook evenly. You can make them as small or large as you like, though smaller cakes tend to be crispier all around.
Can I bake Shrimp Cakes instead of frying them?
Definitely! For a lighter option, bake the shrimp cakes in a 400°F oven for 12 to 15 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method still provides a satisfying texture and flavor with less oil involved.
What kind of dipping sauces go well with Shrimp Cakes Recipe?
Popular choices include aioli, tartar sauce, sweet chili sauce, or even a spicy remoulade. These dips enhance the shrimp’s flavor while adding a creamy or tangy element that’s simply irresistible.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Just swap the panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs, and double-check that your seasonings are gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy this wonderful Shrimp Cakes Recipe without worry.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about sinking your teeth into a golden, crispy shrimp cake that’s packed with flavor and fresh ingredients. This Shrimp Cakes Recipe is straightforward, adaptable, and downright delicious—perfect for developers of seafood dishes or anyone looking to impress with minimal fuss. Give it a try, and watch how quickly it becomes a go-to in your culinary repertoire!
Print
Shrimp Cakes Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 to 10 shrimp cakes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American, Seafood
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Delicious and savory shrimp cakes made with fresh shrimp, crispy panko breadcrumbs, and a blend of flavorful seasonings. These golden-brown patties are pan-fried to perfection and served warm with lemon wedges, making them a perfect appetizer or seafood treat.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 large egg
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, for frying
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Mix the Shrimp Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, panko breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, egg, green onions, garlic, Dijon mustard, Old Bay seasoning, salt, black pepper, and parsley. Stir everything together until well combined and evenly mixed.
- Shape into Patties: Form the shrimp mixture into 8 to 10 small, evenly sized patties. This helps ensure they cook uniformly and have a consistent texture.
- Heat the Oil: Pour the vegetable oil into a large skillet and heat it over medium heat. The oil should be hot enough to sizzle when the patties are added but not smoking.
- Cook the Shrimp Cakes: Place the shrimp patties in the skillet in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook each side for 3 to 4 minutes, or until the cakes are golden brown and cooked through. Carefully flip them once during cooking.
- Drain Excess Oil: Transfer the cooked shrimp cakes to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil, keeping them crisp.
- Serve Warm: Serve the shrimp cakes warm with lemon wedges and your preferred dipping sauce such as aioli, tartar sauce, or sweet chili dip.
Notes
- For a lighter version, bake the shrimp cakes at 400°F for 12 to 15 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
- Add a teaspoon of finely chopped red chili to the mixture if you prefer a spicy kick.
- These shrimp cakes pair well with aioli, tartar sauce, or sweet chili dipping sauce.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs if you need to make this recipe gluten-free.
