Get ready for a finger-licking adventure with this Crispy Fried Shrimp Burger with Homemade Sauce! This knockout burger is a coastal dream come true, featuring crispy golden shrimp patties piled high on a fluffy bun, all slathered with a tangy homemade sauce that brings it all together. Whether you’re craving something a little different or want to wow your friends at your next cookout, this recipe is about to become your go-to for a fresh, bold twist on the classic burger.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You only need a handful of accessible, flavor-packed staples to create this show-stopper of a meal. Each ingredient is chosen for its power to amp up taste, amp up crunch, or add a fresh pop of color—so don’t skip a thing!
- Raw Shrimp (1 pound, peeled, deveined, tails removed): Go for medium or large shrimp; they’ll give your patties that signature sweet snap.
- Panko Breadcrumbs (½ cup for patties + 1 cup for breading): The secret to an airy, super-crispy bite every time.
- Egg (1 for patties + 1 for breading, beaten): Helps bind your shrimp mixture and ensures the breading clings perfectly.
- Green Onion (1, finely chopped): Offers a bright, gentle kick that plays so well with seafood.
- Garlic (1 clove, minced): Adds a deep, aromatic note to the patties.
- Mayonnaise (1 tablespoon for patties + ¼ cup for sauce): Moisture for the patties, creaminess for the sauce—pure magic both ways.
- Dijon Mustard (1 teaspoon for patties + 1 teaspoon for sauce): Snappy, tangy, and exactly what offsets the sweet shrimp.
- Old Bay Seasoning or Paprika (½ teaspoon): Coastal flavor that partners beautifully with seafood.
- Ketchup (1 tablespoon): Gives the sauce a sweet and savory kick.
- Lemon Juice (1 teaspoon): Brightens the sauce and lifts all the flavors.
- Hot Sauce (½ teaspoon, optional): A gentle whisper of heat, if you love a kick.
- Salt (¼ teaspoon for patties + for sauce): Every superstar needs its supporting star—season boldly!
- Black Pepper (¼ teaspoon for patties + for sauce): Brings balance and a subtle bite.
- Flour (½ cup, for breading): Sets the foundation for a shatteringly crisp crust.
- Oil for frying: Use a neutral oil like canola or vegetable to let those shrimp flavors shine.
- Burger Buns (4): Soft and pillowy, ready to cradle all that crispy goodness.
- Lettuce Leaves: Adds crunch and a fresh color contrast.
- Tomato Slices: Juicy rounds to balance the richness.
- Pickles (optional): If you love a tangy kick, these are your best friend.
How to Make Crispy Fried Shrimp Burger with Homemade Sauce
Step 1: Prep the Shrimp
Let’s start by getting the shrimp just right! Roughly chop half the shrimp into small chunks—this gives each bite of your Crispy Fried Shrimp Burger with Homemade Sauce a satisfying, meaty texture. The other half goes into the food processor for a quick pulse until it’s finely minced. Blending both textures is the secret to patties that are both juicy and have real bite.
Step 2: Mix the Patties
In a large bowl, combine your processed shrimp mixture with panko breadcrumbs, egg, green onion, garlic, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Old Bay or paprika, plus salt and pepper. Stir gently just till combined—over-mixing could make the patties tough, and we want these to be tender and succulent.
Step 3: Shape and Chill
Divide the mixture into four equal portions, then shape them into thick, inviting patties. Place the patties on a plate and slide them into the fridge for 20 minutes. This quick chill time helps them firm up, so they stay perfectly shaped and hold together while frying.
Step 4: Whip Up the Homemade Sauce
While those patties are chilling, grab a small bowl and whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, hot sauce, plus a sprinkle of salt and pepper. This zippy homemade sauce is the heart and soul of your Crispy Fried Shrimp Burger with Homemade Sauce—it’s creamy, a little tangy, a tiny bit spicy, and entirely irresistible. Keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble.
Step 5: Bread the Patties
To get that epic crispy exterior, it’s time to bread the patties: first, dredge in flour, then dip in beaten egg, and finally coat in panko breadcrumbs. This triple layer ensures golden crunch in every bite!
Step 6: Fry the Shrimp Patties
Pour oil into a skillet until it’s about ¼ inch deep, then heat over medium. Once hot, gently lay in your patties and fry 3 to 4 minutes per side, until they’re deeply golden and cooked through. Let them drain on a plate lined with paper towels for the ultimate crispness.
Step 7: Build Your Burgers
Toast your burger buns if you like a little extra crunch, then get ready for the grand finale! Spread a generous layer of homemade sauce on the bottom bun, lay down crisp lettuce, a piping hot shrimp patty, tomato slices, and of course—more sauce if you’re feeling wild. Add pickles or extra toppings if you fancy, then crown with the top bun and bring on the satisfied grins!
How to Serve Crispy Fried Shrimp Burger with Homemade Sauce
Garnishes
Top your beautiful burgers with a handful of crisp lettuce, juicy tomato rounds, and a few salty pickles for that classic, all-American look and flavor. For an extra burst of freshness, scatter some finely chopped green onion or flat-leaf parsley over the top. A wedge of lemon on the side is never a bad idea—it brightens each bite and makes your Crispy Fried Shrimp Burger with Homemade Sauce pop.
Side Dishes
These shrimp burgers pair perfectly with crunchy slaw, a basket of sweet potato fries, or a fresh corn salad. If you’re feeling nostalgic, thick-cut fries and a cold, fizzy drink on the side feel just right. A tangy vinegar-based slaw is especially good for cutting through the richness—plus, it brings lots of color to the table!
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve mini versions as sliders at your next party—guaranteed to disappear fast! Or, try them bun-less on a big pile of dressed greens for a lighter, low-carb spin. You can even swap the traditional bun for toasted brioche or pretzel rolls for a gourmet feel. However you plate them, Crispy Fried Shrimp Burger with Homemade Sauce always steals the show.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover shrimp patties tightly and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. For the sauce, cover it and keep refrigerated as well, separately from the patties and buns. The crunch will soften a bit, but a quick reheat can bring it back to life!
Freezing
If you want to plan ahead, you can freeze uncooked breaded shrimp patties. Layer them with parchment paper between each, seal in a freezer bag or container, and stash in the freezer for up to one month. When you crave a home-style Crispy Fried Shrimp Burger with Homemade Sauce, just thaw and cook as usual.
Reheating
For best results, reheat leftover patties in a 375°F oven for 8–10 minutes or air fry for a few minutes until hot and crispy. The oven helps revive that irresistible crust, while the inside stays moist and flavorful. Avoid microwaving if possible, since it makes the coating soggy.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe without a food processor?
Absolutely! Just chop all the shrimp as finely as possible with a sharp knife. The mixture may be a bit chunkier, but you’ll still get that signature texture in your Crispy Fried Shrimp Burger with Homemade Sauce.
Can I bake or air fry the patties for a healthier option?
Yes! For a lighter version, pop your breaded patties in a 400°F (200°C) oven or air fryer for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through. You’ll still enjoy a golden, crispy crust without the extra oil.
What type Main Course
Medium to large raw shrimp is ideal—they give the patties plenty of flavor and firmness. Just be sure they’re peeled, deveined, and tails removed before you start.
Can I prepare the patties in advance?
Definitely. Shape and bread the patties, then keep them chilled in the fridge up to 24 hours before frying. This makes assembling your Crispy Fried Shrimp Burger with Homemade Sauce a breeze when it’s time to cook.
What else can I add to the sauce?
Feel free to stir in a touch of sweet pickle relish, finely chopped dill, or even a dash of smoked paprika. It’s your homemade sauce—get creative and tailor it to your personal taste!
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to experience the joy of making and eating a Crispy Fried Shrimp Burger with Homemade Sauce—there’s just nothing else like it! Crunchy, juicy, bold, and loaded with homemade love, this burger turns any meal into a little celebration. Give it a whirl and let it become your next kitchen success story!
Print
Crispy Fried Shrimp Burger with Homemade Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 burgers 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the crispy goodness of these homemade shrimp patties, perfectly fried to golden perfection and nestled in a burger bun with a tangy homemade sauce.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp Patties:
- 1 pound raw shrimp (peeled, deveined, tails removed)
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 green onion (finely chopped)
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (or paprika)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- oil for frying
For Breading:
- ½ cup flour
- 1 egg (beaten)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
For the Homemade Sauce:
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
- salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- 4 burger buns
- lettuce leaves
- tomato slices
- pickles (optional)
Instructions
- Roughly chop and mix shrimp: Chop half the shrimp and pulse the remaining in a processor. Combine with other patty ingredients.
- Shape and chill: Form mixture into patties, chill for 20 minutes.
- Make sauce: Mix all sauce ingredients and refrigerate.
- Bread and fry: Dredge patties, fry in oil until golden brown.
- Assemble: Toast buns, spread sauce, add patty, lettuce, tomato, and extras. Serve.
Notes
- For a lighter option, air fry or bake the patties at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway.
- You can prep the patties a day ahead and fry when ready to serve.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 185mg
