This Easy Crispy Fried Shrimp Burger is a fun twist on a classic burger! Juicy shrimp are breaded and fried until golden. Who can resist that crunch?
I love adding a bit of spicy mayo to mine. Just a little zing to wake up those taste buds! It’s like a mini party in a bun! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh, raw shrimp is key for a juicy shrimp burger. If you can’t find raw, you could use thawed frozen shrimp, but ensure they’re deveined. For a twist, consider using lump crab meat or fish fillets instead!
Flour: All-purpose flour creates a nice base for the coating, but you can swap it with gluten-free flour if needed. It still works great!
Cornmeal or Panko: Panko gives an extra crunch that I really enjoy! You can substitute it with fine breadcrumbs if panko isn’t available. Cornmeal adds a delicious texture too, along with a bit of cornstarch for crunch.
Cayenne Pepper: This adds some heat, but feel free to adjust or omit it based on your spice preference. Paprika can also add a mild smokiness without heat.
Bun: I recommend soft burger buns for comfort. You can use whole grain or gluten-free buns if you prefer. Slider buns work perfectly for a smaller bite!
How Do I Make Sure My Shrimp Stays Crispy?
Frying shrimp to crispy perfection is about technique! Here are my tips:
- Dry the Shrimp: Ensure the shrimp are patted dry before breading. This helps the coating stick better.
- Do Not Overcrowd: Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature. Crowding the pot lowers the heat, leading to soggy shrimp.
- Maintain Oil Temperature: The oil should be around 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer if you have one; it makes a big difference!
- Drain Properly: Let the fried shrimp sit on paper towels for a few seconds to absorb excess oil and stay crispy.
Enjoy your cooking adventure, and savor every crunchy bite of your shrimp burger!
How to Make Easy Crispy Fried Shrimp Burger
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornmeal or panko breadcrumbs (for extra crispiness)
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for some heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 large eggs
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 4 burger buns, toasted
- 4 leaves of lettuce
- 4 slices of tomato
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp hot sauce (like Sriracha or your favorite), optional for spicy mayo
- 1 tsp lemon juice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and an additional 10-15 minutes for frying. Overall, you’ll be enjoying your delicious shrimp burger in about 30-35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Spicy Mayo:
In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, hot sauce, and lemon juice until well combined. Adjust the hot sauce to your liking if you prefer it spicier. Set aside so the flavors can blend.
2. Prepare the Coating:
In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal or panko, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure even seasoning.
3. Beat the Eggs:
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until they are mixed and slightly frothy. This will help the coating stick to the shrimp.
4. Coat the Shrimp:
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Dip each shrimp into the beaten eggs, making sure it’s fully coated. Then, dredge the shrimp in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to help the coating stick.
5. Heat the Oil:
In a deep skillet or pot, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Use a thermometer if you have one; the oil should reach 350°F (175°C) for frying.
6. Fry the Shrimp:
Carefully add the coated shrimp to the hot oil in small batches. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove the shrimp with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
7. Assemble the Burger:
Take the toasted burger buns and spread a generous amount of spicy mayo on the bottom half of each bun. Place a crispy shrimp patty on top (you can press the shrimp together to form a patty shape or layer shrimp), followed by a lettuce leaf and a slice of tomato.
8. Top it Off:
Cover each burger with the top half of the bun. Give it a gentle squeeze to hold everything together.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your crispy shrimp burgers immediately with fries or your favorite side. Enjoy each crispy, flavorful bite!
Delight in your homemade crispy shrimp burgers, perfect for a fun family dinner or casual gathering!
FAQ for Easy Crispy Fried Shrimp Burger Recipe
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. To thaw, place them in the refrigerator overnight or soak them in a sealed bag under cold water for about 30 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, you can use regular breadcrumbs or crush some crackers for a similar texture. For a gluten-free option, try using crushed cornflakes or gluten-free breadcrumbs!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover shrimp burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a toaster oven or air fryer to restore their crispiness, rather than using a microwave.
Can I Prepare the Shrimp in Advance?
Yes! You can bread the shrimp ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 1-2 hours before frying. However, for the best texture, fry them just before serving.
Enjoy your cooking process, and have fun with these crispy shrimp burgers!
