This easy crispy fried shrimp burger is a real treat! With juicy shrimp coated in a crunchy breading, it’s both fun to make and delicious to eat.
I love how the shrimp gives this burger a tasty twist, unlike regular beef. Pair it with your favorite toppings, and you’ve got a star meal that’s perfect for any day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: I use medium shrimp for this recipe because they offer a nice balance of flavor and bite. You could substitute with larger shrimp, but adjust the cooking time. If you’re vegetarian, consider using tofu instead, marinated for flavor.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give the shrimp burger its crispy texture. If you can’t find panko, regular breadcrumbs work too, though they may not be as crunchy. You can also make your own by toasting stale bread and grinding it.
Mayonnaise: I like using mayonnaise for the sauce, but Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo are great alternatives if you’re looking for a healthier or dairy-free option. Adding lemon juice helps keep it fresh, and you can adjust the flavor to your liking.
How Do I Fry the Shrimp Perfectly?
Frying shrimp can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll nail it! Here’s how to ensure crispy, golden shrimp:
- Make sure the oil is hot enough (350°F) before frying. If it’s too cool, the shrimp will absorb oil and become greasy.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; fry in batches to allow for even cooking.
- Watch closely while frying—they usually only need 2-3 minutes per side. Remove them as soon as they’re golden.
- Let them drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Easy Crispy Fried Shrimp Burger
Ingredients:
- 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 4 hamburger buns, toasted
- 4 lettuce leaves
- 4 slices tomato
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Optional: hot sauce or Old Bay seasoning for extra flavor in mayo
Time Needed:
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total! You’ll need about 15 minutes to prepare everything, and then roughly 15 minutes for frying and assembling the burgers.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Breading Stations:
In a shallow dish, mix the all-purpose flour, paprika, salt, and black pepper together. In another bowl, beat the eggs until well combined. In a third bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with the finely chopped parsley for added flavor and color.
2. Bread the Shrimp:
Take the shrimp and pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. Then, dip each shrimp first into the flour mixture, making sure to coat it evenly. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally, coat it thoroughly with the panko breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to ensure the crumbs stick.
3. Heat the Oil:
In a deep skillet or frying pan, pour about 1 inch of vegetable oil and heat it to 350°F (175°C). You can check if it’s hot enough by dropping a small piece of bread into the oil—if it sizzles and bubbles, you’re ready to fry!
4. Fry the Shrimp:
Carefully add the shrimp in batches to the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and drain on paper towels.
5. Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Feel free to add hot sauce or Old Bay seasoning to enhance the flavor to your liking!
6. Assemble the Burgers:
Now, it’s time to bring it all together! Spread a generous layer of the prepared sauce on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place a portion of the crispy fried shrimp on top, followed by a lettuce leaf and a slice of tomato. Finally, close it with the top bun.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious shrimp burgers immediately with a side of fries or your favorite side dishes. Enjoy every crunchy, juicy bite!
These crispy fried shrimp burgers are bursting with flavor and are perfect for any occasion. Enjoy your cooking!
FAQ
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 them in the fridge overnight or run them under cold water in a sealed bag for quicker thawing. Pat them dry thoroughly before breading to ensure a crispy finish.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make a gluten-free shrimp burger, simply replace the all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. Almond flour or coconut flour paired with gluten-free breadcrumbs work well and still provide a nice crunch!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Shrimp Burgers?
If you have leftovers, store the fried shrimp separately from the bun and toppings. Place the shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes for the best results.
Can I Prep the Shrimp Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the shrimp by breading them a few hours in advance. Just keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to fry. However, for best results, fry them just before serving to maintain their crispy texture!
