The Crispy Fried Shrimp Burger with Homemade Sauce Recipe is an absolute game-changer for any shrimp lover looking to elevate their burger game. Imagine biting into a perfectly crispy, golden shrimp patty bursting with fresh flavors, layered with crisp lettuce, juicy tomato, and zesty homemade sauce tucked inside a toasted soft bun. This recipe balances crunchy textures and tangy, creamy notes beautifully, creating a memorable meal that’s both satisfying and exciting. Whether for a fun weeknight dinner or impressing friends at a weekend gathering, this burger brings a fresh twist to the seafood world with every delicious bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is half the magic for this Crispy Fried Shrimp Burger with Homemade Sauce Recipe. Each item brings something special to the table—whether it’s the umami-packed shrimp, the crunchy panko coating, or the tangy homemade sauce that ties everything together.
- Raw shrimp (1 lb): The star protein, peeled and deveined for easy blending into patties.
- Breadcrumbs (1/4 cup): Helps bind the shrimp mixture and adds a subtle texture.
- Egg (1 for patties, 1 beaten for breading): Gives structure and helps the breading stick perfectly.
- Green onions (2, finely chopped): Adds a fresh, gentle onion bite to the patties.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses depth and a savory aroma that lifts the shrimp.
- Soy sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds a splash of umami and subtle saltiness.
- Lemon juice (1 teaspoon): Brightens flavors with zesty freshness.
- Smoked paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Brings warmth and a subtle smoky undertone.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing the patties.
- Flour (1/2 cup): The first step in the breading process to create a base coating.
- Panko breadcrumbs (1 cup): Gives the patties their signature crispy, golden crust.
- Vegetable or canola oil: For frying until irresistible crunch hits.
- Mayonnaise (1/2 cup): The creamy base of the homemade sauce, rich and smooth.
- Ketchup (1 tablespoon): Adds a hint of sweetness and tang to the sauce.
- Pickle relish (1 tablespoon): Offers a zingy pop that cuts through the richness.
- Dijon mustard (1 teaspoon): Injects subtle sharpness into the sauce.
- Toasted burger buns (4): Soft yet sturdy enough to hold all that deliciousness.
- Lettuce leaves, tomato slices, red onion slices (optional): Fresh, crisp layers that add vibrant color and crunch.
How to Make Crispy Fried Shrimp Burger with Homemade Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp Mixture
Start by placing the peeled and deveined shrimp into a food processor and pulse just until coarsely chopped—you want them chunky for texture, not mushy. Then transfer the shrimp to a bowl and stir in the breadcrumbs, egg, green onions, garlic, soy sauce, lemon juice, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mixing all these ingredients together creates a savory, flavorful base that forms the heart of your shrimp patties.
Step 2: Form and Chill the Patties
Divide the shrimp mixture evenly into four patties, shaping them firmly. Pop the patties into the refrigerator for about 15 to 20 minutes to let them set up. This resting time helps them hold their shape during frying, so you get that perfect crispy exterior without worrying about them falling apart.
Step 3: Breading Station Setup
Set up your three breading stations: a shallow bowl of flour, one bowl with a beaten egg, and a third with panko breadcrumbs. This classic breading trio is the secret to achieving that iconic crunchy crust that makes this burger sensational.
Step 4: Bread the Shrimp Patties
Take each chilled patty and first dust it in flour, shaking off the excess. Next, dip fully into the beaten egg, letting any extra drip away before coating thoroughly in panko breadcrumbs. The triple-dip method locks in moisture and ensures those golden crispy edges that will make your Crispy Fried Shrimp Burger with Homemade Sauce Recipe truly sing.
Step 5: Fry to Golden Perfection
Heat about an inch of vegetable or canola oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully fry each shrimp patty for 3 to 4 minutes per side until they turn a gorgeous golden brown and feel firm to the touch. Keep your eye on the heat so they cook through perfectly without burning. Drain the cooked patties on paper towels to soak up any excess oil.
Step 6: Whip Up the Homemade Sauce
While frying, whip together your homemade sauce by mixing mayonnaise, ketchup, pickle relish, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a small bowl. This bright, tangy sauce is the ideal companion to the crunchy shrimp patty, adding creaminess and a touch of kick with every bite.
Step 7: Assemble Your Crispy Fried Shrimp Burger with Homemade Sauce Recipe
Toast your burger buns lightly to add just enough crunch while keeping them soft inside. Spread a generous layer of that luscious homemade sauce on the bottom bun, then layer lettuce, your crispy shrimp patty, tomato slices, and red onion if using. Add another smear of sauce on top before capping with the bun to complete the masterpiece.
How to Serve Crispy Fried Shrimp Burger with Homemade Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes elevate this burger to new heights. Crisp lettuce and juicy tomato provide refreshing crunch and juicy bursts that balance the rich fried shrimp. Thinly sliced red onion adds a mild bite and subtle sharpness, but feel free to customize with pickles or fresh herbs to add your personal touch.
Side Dishes
This burger loves company, so serve it alongside crispy fries, a crunchy coleslaw, or even some zesty kettle chips. The contrast between the savory shrimp and the sides creates an inviting plate that will satisfy every craving and round out your meal perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling adventurous? Try serving these shrimp patties as sliders for a party, nestling mini patties on brioche buns with extra sauce. For a low-carb twist, swap the buns for crisp lettuce wraps. You can even slice the burgers and serve them open-faced with additional garnishes for a fancy yet relaxed vibe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers from your Crispy Fried Shrimp Burger with Homemade Sauce Recipe, store the cooked shrimp patties separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the buns and sauce apart to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess.
Freezing
You can freeze the uncooked shrimp patties by placing them on a tray lined with parchment paper until firm, then transferring to a sealed container or bag. Frozen patties last up to 1 month and can be fried straight from the freezer, just add a couple of extra minutes to cooking time for the ultimate convenience.
Reheating
For best results reheating the cooked patties, gently reheat them in a skillet over medium heat to retain their crisp texture. Avoid microwaving if possible as it can make the breading soggy. Toast up fresh buns and add freshly made sauce for that just-cooked taste.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp thoroughly and pat them dry before processing to keep the patties from becoming watery and losing crispiness.
Is it possible to bake the shrimp patties instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake them at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. They won’t be quite as crispy but will still taste delicious and be a bit lighter.
What vegetarian swaps work for the shrimp?
If you want a vegetarian version, try finely chopped hearts of palm or artichoke hearts mixed with your breadcrumbs and seasonings for similar texture and flavor.
How spicy is the Crispy Fried Shrimp Burger with Homemade Sauce Recipe?
This recipe has a mild, approachable spice level thanks to the smoked paprika and Dijon mustard. You can boost heat by adding cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the shrimp mixture or sauce.
Can I prepare the shrimp patties a day ahead?
Definitely! Preparing the patties in advance and refrigerating overnight can enhance the flavors and save time on cooking day. Just bread and fry fresh for the best crunch.
Final Thoughts
The Crispy Fried Shrimp Burger with Homemade Sauce Recipe is one of those recipes you’ll want to make again and again—not only because it tastes incredible, but because it’s so much fun to prepare and share. Whether you’re craving a fresh seafood twist on a classic burger or aiming to wow guests with something unique, this recipe delivers on all fronts. Dive in, get your hands a little messy, and savor every crispy, saucy bite of this truly memorable dish.
Print
Crispy Fried Shrimp Burger with Homemade Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Crispy Fried Shrimp Burger features tender shrimp patties coated in crunchy panko breadcrumbs and fried to golden perfection, served on toasted buns with a zesty homemade sauce, fresh lettuce, tomato, and optional red onion for a delicious seafood twist on a classic burger.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp Patties:
- 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Breading & Frying:
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
For the Homemade Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 tablespoon pickle relish
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
To Assemble:
- 4 burger buns, toasted
- Lettuce leaves
- Tomato slices
- Red onion slices (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Shrimp Mixture: Place shrimp in a food processor and pulse until coarsely chopped without over-processing, then transfer to a bowl.
- Combine Ingredients: Add breadcrumbs, egg, green onions, garlic, soy sauce, lemon juice, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the shrimp. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Form Patties and Chill: Shape the mixture into 4 equal-sized patties. Refrigerate for 15–20 minutes to help them firm up for easier breading and cooking.
- Set Up Breading Stations: Place flour, beaten egg, and panko breadcrumbs each in separate shallow bowls to prepare for coating the patties.
- Bread the Patties: Coat each chilled patty first in flour, then dip into the beaten egg, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs evenly.
- Fry the Patties: Heat about 1 inch of vegetable or canola oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry patties for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, pickle relish, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth.
- Assemble Burgers: Spread the homemade sauce on the bottom half of toasted burger buns. Layer with lettuce, the fried shrimp patty, tomato slices, optional red onion slices, and additional sauce as desired. Top with the other half of the bun.
- Serve: Serve the shrimp burgers hot with a side of fries, chips, or slaw for a complete meal. Enjoy your crispy fried shrimp burgers!
Notes
- Do not over-process the shrimp in the food processor to maintain texture in the patties.
- Chilling the formed patties helps them hold together better during frying.
- Use fresh oil heated to the right temperature to avoid greasy patties.
- Customize the sauce by adjusting the relish or mustard based on your taste preferences.
- Optional red onion adds a nice sharpness but can be omitted if preferred.
