If you’re looking for a tasty, easy-to-make seafood dish that has a delightful crunch, look no further than breaded shrimp. This dish combines juicy, succulent shrimp with a crispy coating, making every bite an explosion of flavor and texture. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner for your family or hosting a casual get-together with friends, breaded shrimp is an excellent choice that is sure to impress.
Why We Love This Breaded Shrimp Recipe
There’s something genuinely special about breaded shrimp. First and foremost, it’s incredibly versatile. You can serve it as an appetizer or a main course, and it pairs wonderfully with various sauces and sides. You’ll find that it satisfies seafood lovers and picky eaters alike. Secondly, the recipe is straightforward and requires minimal prep time, allowing you to whip it up without a hassle. Not to mention, the combination of wholesome ingredients like whole wheat breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese makes this dish not just tasty but also relatively healthy when baked. Less guilt, more flavor!
Ingredients about Breaded Shrimp
To create the perfect breaded shrimp, gather the following ingredients:
- 16 oz jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup egg whites, or egg beaters
- 6 tbsp whole wheat Italian seasoned breadcrumbs, or gluten-free crumbs
- 2 tbsp panko crumbs, or gluten-free panko
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- Olive oil spray
These ingredients come together beautifully to create a dish that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, showcasing the shrimp’s natural sweetness.
How to Make Breaded Shrimp Directions
To make your breaded shrimp, follow these simple steps:
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 450°F (230°C). This high temperature helps achieve that perfect golden brown crust on your shrimp.
- Prepare Your Baking Sheet: Lightly spray a baking sheet with olive oil. This not only prevents the shrimp from sticking but also helps to crisp them up as they bake.
- Prepare the Coatings: In one bowl, pour in the egg whites or egg beaters. In another bowl, combine the whole wheat Italian seasoned breadcrumbs, panko crumbs, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well to ensure even distribution of the cheese.
- Season the Shrimp: Take your peeled and deveined shrimp and season them with salt and pepper. Make sure to coat them evenly so every shrimp has that essential flavor.
- Bread the Shrimp: Take a few shrimp at a time and dip them into the egg mixture to coat them fully. Let any excess drip off before transferring them to the breadcrumb mixture. Ensure each shrimp is thoroughly coated, then place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Double-Dip for Extra Crunch: If you find that you have leftover breadcrumbs, re-dip the shrimp back into the egg and then back into the breadcrumbs to get an even crispier texture.
- Final Touches: Once all shrimp are breaded, spray the tops generously with olive oil. This step promotes browning and adds to the crunch factor.
- Bake the Shrimp: Place the baking sheet in the middle rack of your preheated oven. Bake for about 6 to 7 minutes, then carefully turn the shrimp over and bake for an additional 3 minutes or until fully cooked. The shrimp should be opaque and have an appealing golden color.
- Serve Warm: Once your breaded shrimp are out of the oven, serve them immediately. They are fantastic on their own or with freshly squeezed lemon for a zesty kick.
How to Serve Breaded Shrimp
Serving breaded shrimp can be as simple or as elaborate as you like. For a casual meal, serve them straight off the baking sheet with some lemon wedges on the side. The brightness of the lemon elevates the flavor beautifully.
If you want to add a bit of flair, consider serving your breaded shrimp on a platter alongside your favorite dipping sauces. Options like homemade marinara, zesty cocktail sauce, or even a creamy garlic aioli make delightful companions. You can also serve breaded shrimp as part of a surf-and-turf plate, alongside grilled vegetables or a fresh salad, allowing you to create a well-rounded meal that dazzles your guests.
Expert Tips: Breaded Shrimp
To ensure that your breaded shrimp turn out perfect every time, consider these expert tips:
- Choose Quality Shrimp: Opt for freshor frozen jumbo shrimp. When selecting shrimp, look for those that are firm and have a mild scent. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they’re completely thawed and patted dry to avoid excess moisture.
- Don’t Rush the Breading Process: Take your time when coating the shrimp. The more evenly you coat each shrimp with egg and breadcrumbs, the better your final product will be.
- Use Cooking Spray Generously: Don’t skip the olive oil spray! It plays a vital role in achieving that golden crust. Coat the shrimp lightly but generously.
- Adjust Timing for Perfect Cooking: Baking times can vary depending on size and thickness. Keep an eye on the shrimp as they cook to avoid overbaking, which can make them rubbery.
- Serve Immediately: Breaded shrimp are best when served fresh out of the oven. Their texture is crispiest right after baking, so plan to serve them without delay for an optimal experience.
How to Store Breaded Shrimp
If you happen to have leftovers (though they might not last long!), you can store your breaded shrimp for another meal. Allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Stored this way, they can last in the refrigerator for about 2 to 3 days.
When you’re ready to reheat, it’s best if you can do so in the oven to preserve some of that crispy texture. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the shrimp for about 10 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the coating soggy.
Variation of Breaded Shrimp
While the classic breaded shrimp recipe is undeniably delicious, there are countless variations that can elevate this dish to new levels:
- Spicy Breaded Shrimp: Add some cayenne pepper or paprika into your breadcrumb mixture for a kick of heat. This adds a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the shrimp.
- Herb-Infused Breaded Shrimp: Experiment with different dried herbs like oregano, thyme, or basil in your breadcrumb coating to enhance the flavor profile. Fresh herbs can also be mixed in for a more vibrant touch.
- Coconut Breaded Shrimp: For a tropical twist, you can incorporate shredded coconut into your breadcrumb mix. This adds a subtle sweetness and a unique texture.
- Asian-Inspired Shrimp: Use sesame seeds in your breadcrumb mixture for a nutty crunch. A side of soy sauce or sweet chili sauce complements this variation beautifully.
FAQ about Breaded Shrimp
What kind of shrimp should I use for breaded shrimp?
For the best results, go for jumbo shrimp. They hold up well to baking and provide a satisfying bite. You can use fresh or frozen shrimp, but make sure they are peeled and deveined ahead of time.
Can I make breaded shrimp in advance?
Yes, you can bread the shrimp ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator, uncooked, for a few hours. When ready to cook, simply pop them in the oven for a quick and easy meal.
What can I serve with breaded shrimp?
Breaded shrimp pairs perfectly with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with roasted vegetables, a crisp salad, or over a bed of rice or quinoa for a balanced meal.
Are there any gluten-free options for breading shrimp?
Absolutely! You can use gluten-free breadcrumbs and gluten-free panko crumble instead of traditional breadcrumb options to accommodate dietary restrictions.
How can I make breaded shrimp healthier?
To keep this dish light, stick with whole wheat breadcrumbs. Also, baking rather than frying significantly reduces oil content, making it a healthier option.
Breaded Shrimp
Equipment
- Baking Sheet
- Oven
Ingredients
- 16 oz Jumbo Shrimp Peeled and deveined.
- Salt and Pepper To taste.
- 1/4 cup Egg Whites Or egg beaters.
- 6 Tbsp Whole Wheat Italian Seasoned Breadcrumbs Or gluten-free crumbs.
- 2 Tbsp Panko Crumbs Or gluten-free panko.
- 2 Tbsp Grated Parmesan Cheese
- Olive Oil Spray
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Lightly spray a baking sheet with olive oil.
- In one bowl, pour in the egg whites. In another bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Season the shrimp with salt and pepper.
- Dip a few shrimp into the egg mixture, letting excess drip off, then transfer to the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring each shrimp is well coated.
- For extra crunch, re-dip the shrimp back into the egg and then back into the breadcrumbs.
- Place the breaded shrimp on the prepared baking sheet and spray the tops generously with olive oil.
- Bake for about 6-7 minutes, turn the shrimp over, and bake for an additional 3 minutes or until fully cooked and golden.
- Serve warm with lemon wedges or your favorite dipping sauces.
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