Crispy Baked Shrimp

Introduction

When I first made crispy baked shrimp for my family, I wasn’t sure how they’d react. Shrimp can be a hit or miss, but I was hopeful. The aroma wafting from the oven as they baked was mouthwatering, and soon enough, we gathered around the table. As I served the golden, crunchy shrimp with a zesty dipping sauce, the smiles on my family’s faces said it all. Everyone devoured the dish, raving about the crispy texture and the delightful sauce. It quickly became a favorite in our household, perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients

• 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or 1 ½ cups if omitting the coconut)
• 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut (or substitute with ¼ cup garlic powder or Parmesan cheese)
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sriracha sauce (adjust for spiciness)
• 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 large eggs (beaten)
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly oil a rack or use cooking spray, then set it on a baking sheet and set aside.
2. Prepare Breadcrumbs: In a bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs with shredded coconut (or garlic powder or Parmesan). For easier cleanup, line the baking sheet with parchment paper, then spread the breadcrumb mixture evenly on it. Bake for about 4 minutes until golden brown.
3. Mix Breadcrumbs: Return the toasted breadcrumb mixture to the bowl and mix in the kosher salt.
4. Make the Dipping Sauce: In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, sriracha, and lime juice. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.
5. Set Up Breading Station: Place flour on a plate and season with salt and pepper. In a small bowl, prepare the beaten eggs. On another plate, spread out the breadcrumb mixture.
6. Bread the Shrimp: Dip each shrimp into the flour, shake off the excess, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat well with the breadcrumb mixture.
7. Bake the Shrimp: Place a new sheet of parchment paper on the baking sheet and arrange the breaded shrimp on the prepared rack. Increase the oven temperature to 425°F and bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the shrimp are crispy and golden brown.
8. Serve: Transfer the shrimp to a platter, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with the dipping sauce.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 8
• Calories per serving: Approximately 200 calories

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 32 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve on a large platter for sharing.
• Accompany with a variety of dipping sauces, like cocktail sauce or garlic aioli.
• Pair with a side salad or coleslaw for a complete meal.
• Garnish with lemon wedges for an extra zest.
• Offer a selection of dips, such as sweet chili sauce or ranch dressing.

Additional Tips

1. Choose Fresh Shrimp: For the best flavor, use fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp that have been properly thawed.
2. Adjust the Spice: Modify the sriracha in the dipping sauce to suit your family’s spice preference.
3. Crispy Texture: Ensure the shrimp are well-coated in the breadcrumbs for maximum crispiness.
4. Make Ahead: You can bread the shrimp in advance and refrigerate them before baking for a quicker meal.
5. Use Parchment Paper: This helps in easy cleanup and prevents the shrimp from sticking to the baking sheet.

Recipe Variations

• Coconut Shrimp: Increase the shredded coconut for a sweeter flavor and tropical twist.
• Spicy Garlic Shrimp: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for an extra kick.
• Herb-Infused: Mix in dried herbs like oregano or thyme with the breadcrumbs for added flavor.
• Cheesy Variation: Substitute some of the panko with grated Parmesan cheese for a cheesy crust.
• Baked Popcorn Shrimp: Use small shrimp instead of large for bite-sized popcorn shrimp.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve as an appetizer at parties or gatherings.
• Pair with a light, refreshing cocktail or iced tea.
• Offer a variety of fresh vegetables on the side, such as carrot sticks or cucumber slices.
• Use as a topping for salads for added protein and crunch.
• Incorporate into tacos with fresh salsa and avocado for a delightful twist.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: If you have leftovers, let the baked shrimp cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: For the best texture, reheat the shrimp in the oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes until heated through and crispy.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?

• Yes, just ensure they are properly thawed and dried before breading.

1. What can I substitute for mayonnaise?

• Greek yogurt or sour cream can be used for a lighter option.

1. Can I air fry the shrimp instead?

• Absolutely! Air fry at 400°F for about 8-10 minutes for a crispy finish.

1. How can I make these gluten-free?

• Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour substitutes.

1. Can I prepare the shrimp ahead of time?

• Yes, you can bread the shrimp and refrigerate them for up to a few hours before baking.

1. What other sauces can I use for dipping?

• Try honey mustard, tartar sauce, or a spicy remoulade.

1. Can I bake them at a higher temperature?

• Yes, but keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

1. What’s the best way to store leftovers?

• Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

1. How do I know when the shrimp are cooked?

• They should be opaque and have a firm texture when fully cooked.

1. Can I use other types of seafood?
   • Yes, this recipe works well with scallops or fish fillets as well!

Conclusion

Crispy baked shrimp has become a cherished recipe in our home, combining ease of preparation with delightful flavors. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether as an appetizer for a gathering or a quick family dinner. The golden, crunchy shrimp paired with a spicy dipping sauce is sure to impress. I encourage you to give it a try—you might just find a new favorite too!

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