Ultimate Shrimp Burger

Irresistible Homemade Shrimp Burgers: A Gourmet Seafood Delight

Craving a unique twist on the classic burger? Dive into the delectable world of homemade shrimp burgers! These patties are a culinary delight, bursting with fresh, succulent shrimp flavor, perfectly seasoned and cooked to golden perfection. Nestled between soft brioche buns and piled high with your favorite vibrant toppings, these gourmet seafood burgers promise an unforgettable meal. Whether you’re a devoted seafood lover or a burger aficionado seeking a healthier yet equally satisfying alternative, this easy shrimp burger recipe is designed to deliver a restaurant-quality experience right in your own kitchen.

shrimp burger with lettuce, tomato, and spicy mayo on a plate with fries and ketchup

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Forget the ordinary beef patty; our homemade shrimp burgers offer a refreshingly light and incredibly flavorful option. They are not only a delicious choice but also a healthier burger alternative, providing a low-fat, high-protein source of nutrition. Preparing these juicy shrimp patties is surprisingly simple, making them an ideal meal for busy weeknights or an impressive dish for entertaining guests. Get ready to elevate your burger game with this incredible recipe!

Many pre-made shrimp burgers available in stores can often taste overly processed or lack the fresh, vibrant flavor that makes seafood truly shine. Disappointed by bland, mass-produced options, we embarked on a mission to create the ultimate homemade shrimp burger recipe. This quest led to developing a recipe that prioritizes fresh ingredients, perfect seasoning, and a delightful texture that rivals any gourmet restaurant. You’ll discover that making your own shrimp patties from scratch allows for unparalleled control over flavor and quality, resulting in a burger that’s far superior to anything you can buy.

Table of Contents

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Shrimp Burgers

Crafting the perfect shrimp burger starts with a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the irresistible flavor and ideal texture of these gourmet patties:

  • Fresh or Frozen Shrimp: The star of our show! Choose peeled and deveined for convenience, or prepare them yourself. We’ll delve into shrimp selection in more detail shortly.
  • Lemon Pepper Seasoning: A bright, zesty blend that perfectly complements the natural sweetness of shrimp. It adds an invigorating citrus kick without overpowering the delicate seafood flavor.
  • Old Bay Seasoning: An iconic staple in seafood cuisine, Old Bay brings a complex, savory, and slightly spicy depth to the patties. Its blend of herbs and spices is quintessential for authentic seafood burger taste.
  • Smoked Paprika: This spice introduces a beautiful smoky aroma and a rich, subtle flavor that enhances the overall profile of the burger, giving it a gourmet touch.
  • Egg: Essential as a binding agent, the egg helps hold the shrimp mixture together, ensuring your patties don’t fall apart during cooking.
  • Breadcrumbs: These provide structure, absorb excess moisture, and contribute to the patty’s tender interior and crispy exterior. Panko breadcrumbs are excellent for extra crunch.
  • Olive Oil: Used for pan-frying, olive oil helps achieve a golden-brown sear and adds a lovely richness to the cooked shrimp patties.

These core ingredients form the foundation of a truly exceptional homemade shrimp burger, delivering a balance of fresh seafood taste, aromatic spices, and a satisfying texture.

breadcrumbs, raw eggs, and spices in separate glass bowls

Choosing the Best Shrimp for Your Burgers

The quality of your shrimp directly impacts the flavor and texture of your shrimp burgers. Making the right choice ensures a succulent and flavorful result. For optimal convenience and quality, we highly recommend using shrimp that is already peeled and deveined. This saves a significant amount of preparation time, allowing you to get these delicious shrimp patties on the table faster.

You have the flexibility to use either fresh or frozen shrimp. If opting for frozen shrimp, it’s crucial to thaw them completely before beginning your preparation. The best way to do this is by transferring them from the freezer to the refrigerator overnight. For a quicker thaw, place the sealed bag of frozen shrimp in a bowl of cold water, changing the water every 15-30 minutes until thawed. Always pat the thawed shrimp thoroughly dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture; this step is vital for better binding and searing.

If you’re using fresh shrimp, always check for signs of spoilage such as a strong, ammonia-like odor, a slimy texture, or discoloration. Fresh shrimp should have a mild, oceanic scent and a firm, translucent appearance.

For those who purchase unpeeled and undeveined shrimp, here’s a quick guide:

  • Peeling: Start by grasping the shrimp body firmly and peeling away the shell, leaving the tail on or removing it based on preference.
  • Deveining: The “vein” is actually the shrimp’s digestive tract, a dark, thin line that runs along its back. While not harmful to eat, removing it improves the aesthetics and can prevent a gritty texture. To devein, make a shallow cut along the back of the shrimp with a small, sharp knife, then gently lift out the dark vein with the tip of the knife or your fingers. Rinse the shrimp quickly under cold water after deveining.

Selecting the right shrimp and preparing it properly lays the foundation for truly gourmet shrimp burgers.

raw shrimp in a glass bowl

Mastering the Flavor: Seasoning Your Shrimp Burgers

The key to an outstanding shrimp burger lies in its seasoning. Shrimp has a naturally delicate flavor, which means it beautifully absorbs and enhances the spices it’s paired with. While personal preference always reigns supreme, a well-balanced blend of seafood-friendly spices will elevate your patties from good to exceptional.

Our recommended combination creates a dynamic flavor profile that’s both classic and unique:

  • Old Bay Seasoning: This is a non-negotiable for many seafood recipes, and for good reason. Old Bay brings a robust, savory, and slightly spicy kick with notes of celery salt, red pepper, black pepper, and paprika. It’s the taste of the coast, perfectly suited for seafood patties.
  • Smoked Paprika: Beyond its vibrant color, smoked paprika introduces a subtle, earthy smokiness that adds depth and complexity. It complements the sweet notes of the shrimp and pairs wonderfully with the other spices.
  • Lemon Pepper Seasoning: A bright, zesty burst is crucial to cut through the richness and enhance the fresh taste of the shrimp. Lemon pepper provides that essential citrus acidity and a mild peppery bite, ensuring each shrimp burger is lively and fresh.

Feel free to adjust the quantities of these spices to your taste, or experiment with other blends you love. A pinch of cayenne pepper can add extra heat, while a touch of garlic powder or onion powder can deepen the savory notes. The goal is to highlight, not mask, the delicious natural flavor of the shrimp, making these easy shrimp burgers truly irresistible.

Achieving the Perfect Texture: Preparing Your Shrimp

The secret to incredibly tender, juicy, and perfectly bound shrimp burger patties lies in how you prepare the shrimp. We employ a two-part chopping method that ensures a harmonious blend of textures, preventing the burgers from being either too mushy or too chunky. This approach creates a patty that holds its shape beautifully while offering a delightful bite.

Here’s how to prepare your shrimp:

  1. Finely Dice Half the Shrimp: Take half of your total shrimp and chop it very finely. You can achieve this by hand with a sharp knife, repeatedly dicing until the shrimp pieces are almost minced. Alternatively, for speed and consistency, a food processor can be used. Pulse the shrimp a few times until a fine, paste-like consistency is reached, but be careful not to over-process it into a complete paste, as this can affect the texture. This finely diced portion acts as the primary binder for the patties.
  2. Loosely Chop the Remaining Half: For the other half of the shrimp, loosely dice them into larger chunks, approximately 1 inch in size. These larger pieces will provide distinct bits of shrimp within the patty, contributing to a more satisfying and recognizable shrimp texture.

This combination of finely minced and chunked shrimp is crucial for several reasons:

  • Optimal Texture: The finely chopped shrimp creates a tender, juicy base that binds the burger together, preventing it from drying out. The larger chunks add a delightful textural contrast and a clear indication that you’re enjoying a seafood burger made with real shrimp.
  • Enhanced Binding: When shrimp is finely chopped, its proteins interact and create a natural stickiness, which is further aided by the egg and breadcrumbs. This ensures the shrimp patties hold their shape perfectly during cooking, minimizing the risk of crumbling.
  • Even Cooking: A mix of sizes helps the burger cook more uniformly. The smaller pieces cook quickly and thoroughly, ensuring the entire patty is done without overcooking the exterior or leaving larger chunks raw in the center.

Once your shrimp are perfectly chopped, you’ll then gently combine them with your chosen spices, breadcrumbs, and beaten egg. Remember, the goal is to mix just enough to incorporate all ingredients without overworking the mixture, which can lead to tough patties. Form this seasoned mixture into your desired patty size, and you’re ready to cook your delicious homemade shrimp burgers!

collage of 4 photos with diced shrimp in a food processor and in a glass bowl with eggs and breadcrumbs

Crafting Your Homemade Shrimp Burgers: Step-by-Step Guide

Creating these incredibly flavorful and juicy shrimp burger patties is a straightforward process. Follow these detailed instructions to achieve perfect results every time. Remember, the full recipe card with precise measurements and nutritional information is available at the bottom of this post for your convenience.

  1. Prepare the Shrimp: Begin by thoroughly patting your raw, peeled, and deveined shrimp dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. Then, divide the shrimp into two equal halves. Finely dice one half into very small bits, almost minced, either by hand or using a food processor with quick pulses. For the remaining half, loosely chop it into roughly 1-inch chunks. This combination ensures a perfect texture and binding for your shrimp patties.
  2. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the finely diced shrimp, the larger shrimp chunks, your chosen blend of spices (Old Bay, smoked paprika, lemon pepper, and salt), breadcrumbs, and the beaten egg. Mix everything together just until all ingredients are well incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a tough and dry seafood burger.
  3. Form the Patties: Lightly wet your hands with cold water – this is a crucial tip for handling the sticky shrimp mixture! Take a portion of the mixture and gently form it into 4 uniform patties, or adjust the size to your preference. Aim for patties that are about ½ to ¾ inch thick to ensure even cooking. You may need to re-wet your hands between forming each patty.
  4. Heat the Skillet: Place a large skillet (cast iron works wonderfully for a great sear) over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and allow it to heat up until it shimmers slightly, indicating it’s ready for cooking. A hot pan is essential to achieve a beautiful golden crust on your shrimp burgers.
  5. Cook the Burgers: Carefully place the formed shrimp patties into the hot skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the burgers are golden brown and cooked through. The shrimp will turn opaque pink. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
  6. Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the shrimp burgers from the skillet and let them rest on a plate for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more succulent patty. Serve immediately on soft brioche buns with your favorite fresh and vibrant toppings.
collage of 4 photos with uncooked shrimp burger patties on a cutting board and in a cast iron skillet

Taming the Stickiness: Tips for Forming Shrimp Burger Patties

One common characteristic you’ll notice when preparing shrimp burger patties is that the mixture can be quite sticky. This is entirely normal and a direct result of shrimp’s high protein content. When shrimp is ground or finely chopped, the proteins are broken down and come into contact with each other, forming a sticky, cohesive bond. While this stickiness is beneficial for holding the patties together, it can make handling a bit challenging. Here are some expert tips to manage the stickiness and form perfect shrimp patties with ease:

  • Pat the Shrimp Dry Thoroughly: Before you even start chopping, ensure your shrimp is as dry as possible. Use several layers of paper towels to firmly pat the raw shrimp, removing any excess surface moisture. Less moisture in the mixture means less stickiness when handling.
  • Use Wet Hands: This is arguably the most effective trick. Before you begin forming each patty, wet your hands with cold water. The thin layer of water acts as a barrier, preventing the shrimp mixture from adhering to your skin. You may need to re-wet your hands between forming each individual patty to maintain this effect.
  • Incorporate Breadcrumbs Correctly: The breadcrumbs in the recipe are not just for texture; they also play a vital role in absorbing moisture. Ensure you use the recommended amount of breadcrumbs, as they help to bind the ingredients and reduce the overall stickiness of the mixture. Panko breadcrumbs are excellent for both binding and adding a light, crispy texture.
  • Chill the Mixture: If you find the mixture exceptionally sticky or difficult to handle, don’t hesitate to refrigerate it. After combining all the shrimp burger ingredients, cover the bowl and chill the mixture for at least 30 minutes. The cold temperature helps to firm up the proteins and fats, making the mixture much easier to mold into patties.
  • Prepare Your Cooking Surface: Before placing your patties, make sure your skillet or grill pan is properly preheated and adequately greased with olive oil or your preferred cooking oil. A well-oiled, hot surface will help prevent the shrimp burgers from sticking during cooking, allowing for easy flipping and a beautiful sear.

By following these simple techniques, you’ll find that forming and cooking your homemade shrimp burgers becomes a much smoother and more enjoyable process, leading to perfectly shaped and delicious patties.

shrimp burger with lettuce, tomato, and spicy mayo on a plate with fries and ketchup

The Role of Eggs in Shrimp Burger Patties: A Binding Essential

In recipes like these shrimp burgers, eggs serve a crucial function as a binding agent. Their proteins coagulate when heated, helping to hold the various ingredients of the patty together. This is similar to how eggs are used in classic dishes like meatloaf, meatballs, or crab cakes, where they prevent the mixture from crumbling apart during cooking.

While it is theoretically possible to omit eggs from the shrimp burger recipe, doing so comes with significant challenges. Without the cohesive power of the egg, you will likely struggle considerably to form stable patties. The mixture will be much looser and more prone to falling apart, both during the shaping process and especially when you try to cook and flip them in the pan. The resulting burgers may lack the desired structural integrity and could crumble into a hash rather than maintaining their patty shape.

For consistently well-formed, easy-to-handle, and structurally sound homemade shrimp burgers, including the egg as a binder is highly recommended. It ensures a successful cooking experience and a satisfying end product.

Choosing the Best Cookware for Your Shrimp Burgers

The right pan can make a significant difference in how your shrimp burgers cook and the quality of their sear. Each type of cookware offers unique benefits, allowing you to achieve various textures and flavors for your seafood patties. Here are some excellent options:

  • Cast Iron Skillet or Stainless Steel Frying Pan: These are my top choices for achieving that perfect golden-brown crust and a slight char that adds immense flavor. Cast iron skillets are exceptional because they distribute heat incredibly evenly and retain it beautifully, which is vital for quickly searing the shrimp burgers without overcooking the delicate shrimp. This consistent, high heat helps to develop a delicious Maillard reaction on the surface, locking in juices. Stainless steel pans also perform well, especially if they have a heavy bottom for good heat retention. Remember to preheat these pans thoroughly and use adequate oil to prevent sticking.
  • Nonstick Skillet: For those who prefer minimal oil and easier cleanup, a high-quality nonstick skillet is a fantastic option. Nonstick surfaces naturally prevent food from sticking, making flipping your shrimp patties a breeze. However, it’s important to use medium-high heat with nonstick pans, as extremely high temperatures can damage the nonstick coating. While you might not get as deep a sear as with cast iron, the convenience and ease of use are undeniable.
  • Grill Pan: If you’re aiming for that backyard barbecue flavor and classic grill marks, a grill pan is an excellent choice. Its raised ridges replicate the effect of a grill, allowing excess fat to drain away while imparting a smoky flavor and attractive char lines. Ensure your grill pan is very hot before adding the seafood burgers to prevent sticking and achieve those desired marks. This method works especially well for a slightly firmer, crispier exterior.

No matter which pan you choose, ensuring it’s properly preheated and lightly oiled will set you up for success in cooking your delicious homemade shrimp burgers.

Air Frying Your Shrimp Burgers for a Crispy, Healthier Option

For a deliciously crispy exterior with minimal oil, the air fryer is an fantastic alternative cooking method for your shrimp burger patties. Air frying circulates hot air around the food, mimicking the results of deep-frying but with significantly less fat. It’s a convenient and healthy way to prepare these seafood burgers.

Here’s how to air fry your shrimp burgers:

  • Preheat: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the patties start cooking immediately and achieve that desirable crispiness.
  • Lightly Oil: Lightly brush or spray the shrimp patties with a thin layer of olive oil or cooking spray. This helps in achieving a beautiful golden-brown color and prevents them from drying out. You can also lightly grease the air fryer basket if necessary.
  • Arrange in Basket: Place the prepared shrimp burgers in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring not to overcrowd it. Cook in batches if needed to allow for proper air circulation.
  • Cook: Air fry for 8-12 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time (around 4-6 minutes), carefully flip the patties to ensure even browning and crispness on both sides.
  • Check Doneness: The shrimp burgers are done when they are golden brown, firm to the touch, and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

Air frying offers a quicker cleanup and a delightful crunch, making it a perfect method for a healthy shrimp burger meal.

Ensuring Perfect Doneness: How to Tell When Your Shrimp Burgers Are Cooked

Knowing when your shrimp burgers are perfectly cooked is essential for both food safety and optimal taste and texture. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery and dry, while undercooked shrimp is a health risk. Here’s how to confidently determine when your delicious seafood patties are ready to enjoy:

  • Visual Cues: As shrimp cooks, it undergoes a distinct color change. Raw shrimp is typically grayish and translucent. When cooked, it will turn opaque and pinkish-red. Ensure that the entire patty has changed color and there are no gray, translucent spots remaining, especially in the center.
  • Texture Test: Gently press on a shrimp burger with your finger. A cooked patty will feel firm and springy to the touch. If it feels soft or squishy, it likely needs more cooking time.
  • Internal Temperature (The Most Reliable Method): For ultimate food safety and precision, always use a reliable meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the shrimp burger patty. The shrimp is fully cooked and safe to eat when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This method removes all guesswork and guarantees a perfectly cooked homemade shrimp burger every time.

By paying attention to these visual, textural, and temperature indicators, you’ll consistently achieve perfectly cooked, juicy, and delicious shrimp burgers.

shrimp burger with lettuce, tomato, and spicy mayo on a plate with fries and ketchup

Elevate Your Shrimp Burger: Irresistible Topping Ideas

The beauty of a shrimp burger truly shines when adorned with fresh, vibrant, and flavorful toppings. These additions not only enhance the taste but also add crucial texture and visual appeal, transforming your seafood patty into a gourmet masterpiece. Here are some fantastic ideas to inspire your next homemade shrimp burger creation:

  • Spicy Mayo: A creamy, tangy, and subtly spicy sauce is a must-have. Our simple spicy mayo recipe (detailed below) adds a perfect kick that complements the sweet shrimp without overpowering it.
  • Fresh Avocado Slices or Guacamole: Creamy, buttery avocado, whether sliced or mashed into guacamole, adds a luxurious texture and healthy fats. Its mild flavor provides a wonderful contrast to the savory shrimp and spicy mayo.
  • Crispy Bacon: For a delightful smoky crunch, crispy bacon bits or strips are an unexpected but highly welcome addition. The saltiness and texture elevate the entire shrimp burger experience.
  • Quick Pickled Onions: These offer a bright, tangy, and slightly sweet counterpoint that cuts through the richness of the burger. Their vibrant color and satisfying crunch are an added bonus.
  • Creamy Coleslaw: A cool, crisp, and tangy coleslaw made with shredded cabbage and carrots provides a refreshing crunch and a delightful creamy texture. It’s a classic pairing with seafood burgers.
  • Melted Cheese: While not traditional for all seafood, a slice of melted cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even crumbled feta can add a wonderful richness and depth of flavor. Experiment to find your favorite cheesy combination.
  • Pineapple Mango Salsa: For a burst of tropical freshness, a sweet and tangy fruit salsa made with ripe pineapple and mango adds an incredible layer of flavor and juicy texture. It’s a fantastic way to brighten up your gourmet shrimp burger.
  • Crispy Fried Onion Rings: Stack a few crunchy onion rings right on top for an extra layer of texture and a satisfying savory bite. They add a touch of indulgence to any burger.
  • Fresh Greens (Arugula or Lettuce): A few crisp leaves of arugula or lettuce provide essential freshness, a slight peppery note (from arugula), and a welcome crunch, balancing the richness of the patty and other toppings.
  • Tomato Slices: Juicy, ripe tomato slices add a classic burger element with their fresh, slightly acidic flavor.
  • Brioche Buns: Don’t forget the bun! A soft, slightly sweet brioche bun provides the perfect pillow-y foundation for your delicious shrimp burger, holding all those fantastic flavors together.

Mix and match these ideas to create your signature shrimp burger – the possibilities are endless for a truly personalized and unforgettable meal!

person holding shrimp burger with lettuce, tomato, and spicy mayo

Crafting the Perfect Spicy Mayo

A zesty, spicy mayo is the ideal condiment for these shrimp burgers, adding a creamy texture and a delightful kick that perfectly complements the sweet seafood. Making it at home is incredibly simple and allows you to adjust the heat to your liking.

To prepare our recommended spicy mayo, combine 1 tablespoon of good quality mayonnaise with 1 teaspoon of your favorite hot sauce. Louisiana hot sauce or Sriracha are excellent choices that provide a balanced heat and flavor. Feel free to adjust the ratio of mayonnaise to hot sauce based on your personal preference for creaminess and spice level. For a milder version, use less hot sauce; for more heat, add a little extra. You can also experiment with a squeeze of fresh lime juice for added brightness or a pinch of garlic powder for more depth. Whisk until smooth and creamy, then slather generously on your brioche buns for the ultimate shrimp burger experience.

Storing Your Homemade Shrimp Burgers for Freshness

Proper storage is key to enjoying your homemade shrimp burgers as delicious leftovers. Whether cooked or uncooked, storing them correctly ensures they maintain their flavor and freshness.

  • Cooked Patties: Allow any cooked shrimp burger patties to cool completely to room temperature before storing. Place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Stored this way, they will remain fresh and delicious in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. This makes them perfect for meal prepping healthy lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.
  • Uncooked Patties (for later cooking): If you’ve prepared a batch of shrimp patties but don’t plan to cook them all immediately, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. Place them on a plate lined with parchment paper, separated by additional parchment paper layers if stacking, then cover tightly with plastic wrap. This prevents them from sticking together and keeps them fresh until you’re ready to cook.

Always ensure your containers are sealed well to prevent any odors from permeating other foods in your fridge and to keep the shrimp patties from drying out.

Reheating Shrimp Burgers Without Losing Flavor or Texture

Reheating shrimp burgers requires a gentle approach to prevent them from drying out or becoming rubbery. The goal is to warm them through while preserving their juicy texture and delicious flavor. Avoid the microwave, as it’s notorious for turning seafood rubbery and bland.

  • Air Fryer: For regaining some of that original crispiness, the air fryer is an excellent choice. Place the cooked shrimp patties in a preheated air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until heated through.
  • Oven: Reheating in the oven is another great method for even warming. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the shrimp burgers on a baking sheet and bake for 8-12 minutes, or until thoroughly warmed. Covering them loosely with foil can help prevent excessive drying.
  • Skillet on the Stove: For a quick reheat, warm a nonstick or cast iron skillet over medium-low heat with a tiny bit of olive oil. Add the shrimp patties and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, gently warming them without overcooking. This method helps maintain moisture.
  • Grill: If you have a grill handy, a quick pass on medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side can also warm them up beautifully and add a touch of smoky flavor.

By choosing one of these methods, you can enjoy your leftover homemade shrimp burgers almost as much as the fresh ones!

person holding shrimp burger with lettuce, tomato, and spicy mayo

Freezer-Friendly Shrimp Burgers: Batch Prep for Later

Preparing a larger batch of shrimp burger patties and freezing them is an excellent strategy for meal planning and enjoying a quick, healthy meal anytime. Both cooked and uncooked patties can be frozen, extending their shelf life significantly.

  • Freezing Uncooked Patties: Form the shrimp burger patties as directed in the recipe. Place them in a single layer on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours, or until solid. This prevents them from sticking together. Once frozen, transfer the individual patties to an airtight, freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper if needed. They can be stored for 2-3 months. When ready to cook, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before pan-frying or air frying as usual.
  • Freezing Cooked Patties: Allow cooked shrimp burgers to cool completely. Wrap each patty individually in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator and then use one of the reheating methods described above (air fryer, oven, or skillet) for best results.

Having freezer-friendly shrimp burgers on hand means you’re always just a short cook time away from a delicious and satisfying seafood meal.

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Shrimp Burgers

Complement your delicious shrimp burgers with these fantastic side dishes for a complete and satisfying meal:

  • Air Fryer French Fries: Crispy and golden, a classic burger pairing.
  • Air Fryer Onion Rings: A crunchy, flavorful alternative to fries.
  • Air Fryer Green Beans: A healthy and fresh vegetable side.
  • Traeger Smoked Baked Beans: Rich, smoky, and sweet – a hearty side.
  • Smothered Potatoes and Onions: Comforting and flavorful potato dish.
  • Steakhouse Creamed Spinach: A creamy and decadent green side.

More Delicious Seafood Recipes to Explore

If you’re a fan of seafood, don’t stop at shrimp burgers! Here are more fantastic recipes to expand your culinary repertoire:

  • Crispy Catfish Nuggets
  • Shrimp Stir Fry with Noodles
  • Crab Risotto
  • Shrimp Spaghetti
  • Old Bay Steamed Shrimp
  • Crab Cake Sandwich
  • Watch step by step instructions on how to make this recipe here on Youtube.
shrimp burger with lettuce, tomato, and spicy mayo on a plate with fries and ketchup

Shrimp Burger Recipe

Brandi Crawford

These juicy, flavorful Shrimp Burger patties are nestled in soft brioche buns and loaded with fresh, vibrant toppings. Perfect for seafood lovers and burger enthusiasts alike, these offer a gourmet experience right in your own kitchen.

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Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 8 mins
Total Time 23 mins

Course dinner, lunch
Cuisine American

Servings 4 burgers
Calories 344 kcal

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Equipment

  • Cast Iron Skillet
  • Cosori Air Fryer

Ingredients

  • 1 pound raw shrimp Peeled and deveined.
  • 1 teaspoon Old Bay Seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon Lemon Pepper Seasoning Optional
  • salt to taste
  • 1 medium egg Beaten
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil

Instructions

  • Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and chop/dice half of the shrimp into small pieces about an inch thick. For the remaining half of the shrimp finely dice it into bits or use a food processor to get the job done.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped and finely diced shrimp, spices, breadcrumbs, and egg. Mix to combine the ingredients. Do not overmix. It results in dry burgers.
  • Use wet hands to form the mixture into 4 patties or whatever size you would like them to be.
  • Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil.
  • Once the skillet is hot, add the shrimp burgers to the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the burgers are golden brown and cooked through.
  • Remove the shrimp burgers from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
  • Serve the shrimp burgers on a bun with your favorite toppings.

Air Fryer Instructions

  • Air fry the patties at 400 degrees for 8-12 minutes. Flip halfway through.

Notes

You can use any breadcrumbs you like including seasoned breadcrumbs.

The burgers will be really sticky while you are handling them and forming patties. Shrimp has a high protein content. When shrimp is ground up, the proteins in the shrimp come into contact with each other and form a sticky bond. Wet hands are really helpful.

If your mixture is too sticky to handle, after mixing the burger ingredients together, refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes to help firm it up and make it easier to handle.

Eggs are used as a binding agent. They are used similarly to how you would prepare meatloaf, crab cakes, etc. You can omit the eggs, but you will likely struggle to form patties and keep them together while cooking.

If your burgers are tough and dry you overcooked them or you spent too much time overmixing the raw meat mixture.

Nutrition Information

Serving: 1burger with brioche bunCalories: 344kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 21gFat: 8g
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Nutrition Data Disclaimer

Macros are provided as a courtesy and should not be construed as a guarantee. This information is calculated using MyFitnessPal.com. To obtain the most accurate nutritional information in a given recipe, you should calculate the nutritional information with the actual ingredients used in your recipe, using your preferred nutrition calculator. You are solely responsible for ensuring that any nutritional information provided is accurate, complete, and useful.

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