Shrimp Cakes

Shrimp cakes are an exciting dish that brings the fresh flavors of the sea right to your kitchen table. Picture these delicious, golden-brown patties that not only satisfy your taste buds but also warm your heart. They’re quick to prepare, making them a perfect choice for a casual weeknight dinner or a fun get-together with friends. The star of this dish, of course, is shrimp—sweet and savory—combined with other wonderful ingredients that create a satisfying crunch and depth of flavor.

Imagine serving shrimp cakes topped with a creamy, spicy hot mayonnaise that dances on your palate. With each bite, you’ll be transported to a sunny coastal getaway. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because, shrimp cakes are sure to impress. Let’s explore how to make these tasty treats and why they deserve a spot in your recipe collection.

What is Shrimp Cakes

Shrimp cakes are delicious, golden-brown patties made primarily from shrimp and a variety of flavorful ingredients. These savory treats can be enjoyed as an appetizer or a main dish, bringing a taste of coastal cuisine to your home. Often seasoned with spices and combined with crunchy elements like crushed crackers, shrimp cakes are versatile and always a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Cakes

These shrimp cakes are a perfect blend of textures and flavors—crispy on the outside and tender within. They are not only easy to prepare but also a fantastic way to impress your guests or elevate a simple family dinner. With a kick from jalapeño and a creamy homemade hot mayonnaise, these shrimp cakes are sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

Ingredients for Shrimp Cakes

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
• 1 ½ cups Ritz Crackers, crushed
• ½ cup Best Foods mayonnaise
• ¼ cup panko bread crumbs
• ¼ cup red onion, minced
• 1 stalk celery, minced
• 1 jalapeño, minced
• 2 teaspoons brown mustard
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Creole seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Extra virgin olive oil

For the Hot Mayonnaise:

• ½ cup Best Foods mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce
• Pinch of black pepper

Preparing the Shrimp Cakes

Peel and Chop Shrimp

Begin by peeling, deveining, and finely chopping the shrimp, leaving a few larger chunks for texture. This step makes sure the shrimp cakes have that satisfying bite you’ll love.

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the crushed crackers, minced vegetables, all spices, mayonnaise, and mustard. Mix thoroughly until everything is well combined. This blend is where the magic starts, so don’t rush it!

Fold in Shrimp and Panko

Gently fold the chopped shrimp and panko bread crumbs into the mixture, ensuring the shrimp is evenly distributed. The panko adds a light crunch that makes all the difference in your cakes.

Form Patties

Shape the mixture into 4 equal-sized patties. If you want smaller snacks for a gathering, feel free to make mini patties. They’re just as delicious and great for sharing!

Cook the Patties

Heat about 4 tablespoons of olive oil and a little butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the patties and cook them for 4-5 minutes on each side until they are a nice golden brown. If you prefer, you can also place them under the broiler for about 8 minutes per side.

Drain and Serve

Once cooked, drain the shrimp cakes on paper towels to remove excess oil. This keeps them nice and crispy, just how you want them.

Prepare Hot Mayo

To make the hot mayonnaise, mix together the mayo, hot sauce, and black pepper in a small bowl. Adjust the hot sauce to your spice preference. This will be the perfect complement to your shrimp cakes.

Serve

Serve the shrimp cakes warm, topped with the spicy hot mayonnaise. The combination of flavors is irresistible!

Serving Suggestions

Pair your shrimp cakes with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or slaw to balance the richness. They also serve well with a side of dipping sauces like tartar or a cilantro-lime sauce for an added flavor boost. This way, you can customize each bite to suit your taste!

Tips for Success

• Ensure shrimp is finely chopped for optimal texture and flavor distribution. This enhances the overall eating experience.
• Don’t skip refrigeration; letting the patties sit helps them hold together while cooking. It makes a noticeable difference in texture.
• Experiment with the spice level by adjusting the jalapeño and hot sauce. Make them as mild or spicy as you like!

Variations

Feel free to add other ingredients to your shrimp cakes for variety, such as corn, bell peppers, or even herbs like cilantro or parsley for freshness. This recipe is flexible and allows you to get creative!

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness. No one likes a soggy shrimp cake!

Pairing Ideas

These shrimp cakes pair beautifully with a light, citrusy white wine or a refreshing cocktail, amplifying the coastal dining experience right at home. They’re perfect for a dinner party or a cozy weekend meal.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just ensure they are fully thawed and well-drained before chopping. It’s convenient and still delicious.

2. Can I make shrimp cakes ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and shape the patties, then refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. This makes hosting easier.

3. What can I use instead of Ritz crackers?
You can substitute Ritz with panko or any unflavored breadcrumbs if desired. Adjusting ingredients opens up new flavor possibilities.

4. How spicy are these shrimp cakes?
The level of spice can be adjusted based on your preference—just modify the jalapeño and hot sauce as needed. Mix it to your liking!

5. Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake them at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure they are crispy. Baking is a healthier alternative that still yields tasty results.

These shrimp cakes are more than just a recipe; they are an invitation to enjoy a delightful dining experience that echoes the flavors of the coast. With their crispy exterior, tender shrimp filling, and spicy mayonnaise topping, every bite is a celebration of flavor that will leave your guests asking for seconds. Enjoy crafting this dish to share with friends and family, or savor it all for yourself!

More Easy Appetizers & Snacks Recipes:

• Chicken Taquitos
• Mixed Berry Smoothie Bowl
• Bacon in Air Fryer
• Air Fryer Green Beans

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Shrimp Cakes

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Shrimp cakes offer crispy exteriors and tender shrimp interiors, making them a delightful choice for appetizers or main dishes. Perfect for impressing guests or a cozy family dinner.

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
• 1 ½ cups Ritz Crackers, crushed
• ½ cup Best Foods mayonnaise
• ¼ cup panko bread crumbs
• ¼ cup red onion, minced
• 1 stalk celery, minced
• 1 jalapeño, minced
• 2 teaspoons brown mustard
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Creole seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Extra virgin olive oil
• ½ cup Best Foods mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce
• Pinch of black pepper

Instructions

• Peel, devein, and finely chop shrimp, leaving larger chunks for texture.
• Combine crushed crackers, minced vegetables, spices, mayonnaise, and mustard in a large bowl.
• Fold in chopped shrimp and panko bread crumbs until mixed well.
• Shape the mixture into 4 patties, adjusting size for personal preference.
• Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet, cooking patties for 4-5 minutes each side or broil for 8 minutes.
• Drain cooked patties on paper towels to remove excess oil.
• Mix mayonnaise, hot sauce, and black pepper to create hot mayonnaise.
• Serve warm with spicy hot mayonnaise.

Notes

Finely chopped shrimp enhance texture and flavor distribution.
Refrigerate patties before cooking to help them hold together.
Adjust spice levels with jalapeño and hot sauce to taste.

• Author: Rachael
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Appetizer/Main Dish
• Method: Pan-fried/Broiler
• Cuisine: Coastal

Nutrition

• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 1
• Sodium: 450
• Fat: 12
• Saturated Fat: 2
• Unsaturated Fat: 8
• Trans Fat: 0
• Carbohydrates: 15
• Fiber: 1
• Protein: 11
• Cholesterol: 150