Easy and Delicious Shrimp Cakes Recipe for Any Occasion

Looking for a quick, flavorful twist on your seafood dinner? This shrimp cakes recipe is crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with bold, savory flavors that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re planning a weeknight meal or a weekend appetizer, keep reading to discover how easy and delicious these shrimp cakes are to make!

Ingredients

• 1 pound raw shrimp peeled and deveined
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons Old Bay seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1⁄2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1⁄4 cup finely diced red bell pepper
• 2 green onions finely chopped
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil for frying

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Food processor
• Skillet
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

1. Prepare the shrimp: Add half of the shrimp to a food processor and pulse until you get a coarse paste. Be careful not to over-process. Roughly chop the other half into small chunks. I like this balance for a contrast in texture that makes the cakes feel more special.
2. Make the flavor base: In a large bowl, whisk together the egg, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This is your flavor powerhouse, and a little lemon really brightens everything.
3. Bring it together: Stir the shrimp into the egg mixture. Then fold in the breadcrumbs, red bell pepper, green onions, and parsley. Do not overmix. Just combine gently until the mixture holds together.
4. Shape the cakes: With clean hands, scoop and form into 8 roughly equal cakes. I like to make them about the size of a slider patty. Place them on a plate and chill in the refrigerator for about 10 to 15 minutes. This step helps them hold their shape when you cook them.
5. Cook the cakes: Heat the olive oil in your skillet over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, lay the shrimp cakes in gently. Work in batches if needed. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side or until golden and cooked through. Don’t rush this part — the crust gives these cakes that lovely satisfying bite.
6. Serve and enjoy: Transfer the cooked cakes to a paper towel-lined plate to drain briefly. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce or simply a squeeze of fresh lemon.

Nutrition per Serving

Description

Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these shrimp cakes are like little golden treasures from the sea. Think of them as the perfect blend of summer freshness and Southern flair, with sweet shrimp mingling with zesty lemon and herbal notes in every bite. Each cake is pan-seared to a satisfying golden brown, creating that irresistible crunch that gives way to a savory and slightly briny filling. Paired with a side of creamy dip or fresh greens, they make for a dish that feels both elegant and comforting.

Shrimp cakes call to mind casual seaside dinners and festive cookouts, whether enjoyed on a patio with a cold drink or served at a family-style dinner table. They bring people together with their playful size and shareable style, just like classic crab cakes but with a unique coastal twist. Every bite bursts with a delicious balance of texture and flavor — light yet satisfying, aromatic yet simple.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This shrimp cakes recipe is a crowd-pleaser, thanks to its bright flavors and crisp texture, but it is also incredibly easy and efficient. Using simple pantry staples and fresh or frozen shrimp, you can whip up the mixture in minutes and have a delicious weeknight dinner or party appetizer ready in no time. They are also naturally low in carbs and high in protein, making them a solid choice for clean eating or balanced diets.

You can customize the flavor based on your preferences — think of it as a blank canvas for toppings or sauces, from spicy aioli to tangy remoulade. The recipe scales well, works beautifully in advance, and even shines when repurposed in sandwiches or grain bowls.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serve these shrimp cakes hot and fresh from the skillet with a zesty dipping sauce or a squeeze of lemon. For an elegant meal, pair them with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. They also make a great addition to buns or sliders for an elevated twist on burger night.

To store, let them cool completely and place in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through and crisp. To freeze, place cooked and cooled cakes in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven or skillet.

Course, Cuisine, Keywords

Appetizer, Dinner, American, Seafood
shrimp cakes, easy shrimp recipe, seafood appetizer, low carb dinner

Servings, Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Serving Size

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Serving Size: 2 cakes

Recipe Notes

For extra flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan and do not skip the lemon zest. Leftovers keep well for 2 days in the fridge.

FAQ

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