This Shrimp Cakes recipe is a total game changer in the kitchen, combining the deliciousness of shrimp with a colorful mix of veggies. Imagine biting into a crispy, golden cake that bursts with flavor! You can enjoy it as an appetizer for your next dinner party or even as a quick snack after a long day. And trust me, once you try these Shrimp Cakes, you’ll wonder how you ever cooked without them. They’re easy to make and perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself, no judgment here!). The best part? You probably have most of the ingredients on hand already, so it’s time to get cooking.
Now, let’s explore why this recipe is not just another ordinary seafood dish, but a unique culinary adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just a home chef looking to impress, these Shrimp Cakes will surely become a staple in your household. With a crispy exterior and a flavorful, tender interior, they’re just too good to resist!
Why This Recipe Works
This Shrimp Cakes recipe combines the delicate flavor of shrimp with a medley of fresh vegetables and seasonings, creating a dish that is both satisfying and flavorful. By using panko breadcrumbs, we ensure a crispy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the tender cake inside. The balance of ingredients not only enhances the taste but also makes the cakes easy to prepare and cook.
Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Cakes
These Shrimp Cakes are versatile, perfect as a delightful appetizer or a hearty main course. They are a hit at dinner parties, casual family meals, or even as a quick snack. With every bite, you’ll enjoy a burst of flavor from the shrimp and aromatic vegetables, making it a dish that caters to both the seafood lover and the culinary novice.
Ingredients
- 2 lb. raw shrimp, peeled and deveined, patted dry
- 1/4 cup red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice, plus more for garnish
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Preparation Instructions
Prepare the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to your food processor and pulse 3-5 times until it’s broken down into larger chunks, ensuring not to over-process it.
Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the finely chopped red bell pepper, red onion, panko breadcrumbs, Old Bay seasoning, salt, lemon juice, egg, mayonnaise, and fresh parsley. Stir well to mix all ingredients thoroughly.
Incorporate the Shrimp
Gently fold the processed shrimp into the bowl of ingredients, mixing until everything is well combined.
Form the Patties
Using your hands, form the mixture into 14 patties. A handy technique is to roll the mixture into balls before pressing them down with your palms to create even shapes.
Cook the Shrimp Cakes
Heat the olive oil in two large skillets over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the shrimp cakes. Cook for about 3 minutes, then gently flip them over and cook for another 3 minutes until they are golden brown on both sides.
Serve and Garnish
Serve the shrimp cakes warm, garnished with an extra squeeze of lemon juice for an added zest.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these shrimp cakes with a fresh salad, rice, or homemade tartar sauce for an added touch. They also make excellent sliders on toasted buns with avocado and spicy mayo.
Tips for Success
- Ensure the shrimp is patted dry to prevent excess moisture, which can make the mixture too wet.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan when cooking, as this can lower the temperature and lead to soggy cakes.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture.
Variations
You can customize shrimp cakes by adding other ingredients such as corn, diced scallions, or even a bit of grated cheese for a richer flavor. For those looking for a gluten-free option, substitute panko with crushed gluten-free crackers.
Storage Tips
Store any leftover shrimp cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can be reheated in a skillet on medium heat until warmed through and crispy.
Pairing Ideas
Shrimp cakes pair wonderfully with a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a citrusy cocktail. Serve alongside a refreshing coleslaw or an herbaceous chimichurri for a complete meal.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
A1: Yes, just ensure to thaw and pat them dry thoroughly before processing.
Q2: Can I bake the shrimp cakes instead of frying them?
A2: Absolutely! Bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through.
Q3: Are shrimp cakes healthy?
A3: They can be a healthy option, especially if baked and served with a side of vegetables.
Q4: Can I make the mixture ahead of time?
A4: Yes, refrigerate the mixture for up to 24 hours before forming and cooking the patties.
Q5: What can I substitute for Old Bay seasoning?
A5: You can create a homemade mix with paprika, celery salt, black pepper, and cayenne.
These shrimp cakes not only burst with flavor but also embody culinary creativity, making them a delightful addition to your cooking repertoire. Enjoy the mix of succulent shrimp and fresh ingredients in every bite!
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Shrimp Cakes
These Shrimp Cakes are perfect for any occasion, featuring a delightful mix of flavors and textures. They’re easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests.
- Total Time: 16 minutes
- Yield: 14 patties 1x
Ingredients
- 2 lb. raw shrimp, peeled and deveined, patted dry
- 1/4 cup red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice, plus more for garnish
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Add shrimp to the food processor and pulse 3-5 times until broken into larger chunks.
- In a large bowl, combine red bell pepper, red onion, panko breadcrumbs, Old Bay seasoning, salt, lemon juice, egg, mayonnaise, and fresh parsley.
- Gently fold the processed shrimp into the mixture until well combined.
- Form the mixture into 14 patties.
- Heat olive oil in skillets over medium heat and cook shrimp cakes for about 3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Serve warm, garnished with lemon juice.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
Pat shrimp dry to avoid excess moisture.
Do not overcrowd the pan for optimal cooking results.
Add jalapeños for a spicier flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 6 mins
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Pan-fried
- Cuisine: Seafood
Nutrition
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
