The Best Homemade Shrimp Burger Recipe

The Secret to an Unforgettable Shrimp Burger

What if I told you that the most delicious, juicy, and flavor-packed seafood burger you’ve ever had could be made in your own kitchen in under 30 minutes? It sounds like a bold claim, especially when we’re used to beef reigning supreme in the burger world. But I’m here to tell you that this incredible shrimp burger recipe is a true game-changer. I first had a shrimp burger at a little seafood shack on a coastal road trip, and I was blown away by its fresh, succulent flavor. I became obsessed with recreating that perfect texture—not mushy, but with real, discernible pieces of shrimp in every bite. This recipe is the culmination of that quest.

Forget everything you think you know about non-beef burgers. We’re about to create a patty that’s bursting with the sweet flavor of shrimp, perfectly seasoned with a hint of smoky spice, and seared to golden-brown perfection. This is more than just a burger; it’s a taste of the coast, ready to become your new favorite.

Your Simple Toolkit for a Sensational Burger

The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity. You only need a few key ingredients to let the star of the show—the shrimp—truly shine.

Timing Your Quick & Easy Meal

This gourmet-tasting burger comes together in a flash, making it an ideal choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend lunch.

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 8-10 minutes
• Total time: 25 minutes

This recipe is remarkably fast. It takes approximately 50% less time to prepare and cook than a traditional grilled beef burger, delivering a delicious meal with impressive speed.

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp Mixture

The secret to a great shrimp burger texture is a combination of finely chopped and roughly chopped shrimp. Take one-third of your peeled and deveined shrimp and chop it finely, almost into a paste. This will act as a natural binder. Roughly chop the remaining two-thirds of the shrimp into small, pea-sized pieces. This ensures you get those delicious, chunky bites of shrimp in your burger.

Step 2: Season and Combine

In a medium bowl, combine the finely chopped and roughly chopped shrimp. Add the Old Bay Seasoning, smoked paprika, optional lemon pepper seasoning, and a pinch of salt. Mix well to distribute the spices evenly. Add the beaten egg and the breadcrumbs, and mix gently with your hands or a spatula until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 3: Form the Patties

Divide the shrimp mixture into four equal portions. Gently form each portion into a patty, about ½ to ¾-inch thick. If the mixture is a bit sticky, you can wet your hands slightly to make shaping easier. Place the formed patties on a plate or a piece of parchment paper.

Step 4: Sear to Golden-Brown Perfection

Heat the olive oil in your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the shrimp patties in the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until they are golden brown, crispy on the outside, and opaque throughout. For perfect results, use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Transfer the cooked shrimp burgers to a plate and let them rest for a minute or two before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful burger.

this now & bake later ❤️

Nutritional Insights

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per shrimp patty (not including the bun or toppings):

• Calories: ~180 kcal
• Protein: ~24g
• Carbohydrates: ~8g
• Fat: ~5g
• Sodium: ~450mg (will vary based on seasoning and added salt)

These shrimp burgers are an excellent source of lean protein. Shrimp is also rich in selenium, an important antioxidant, and vitamin B12.

Healthier Alternatives to Consider

While these burgers are already quite healthy, you can make a few tweaks to align them with specific dietary goals.

• Air Fryer Method: For an oil-free cooking method, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the patties in the air fryer basket in a single layer and cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
• Baked Version: To bake the burgers, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping once, until cooked through.
• Go Bunless: For a low-carb option, serve the shrimp patty over a bed of fresh greens or in a crisp lettuce wrap instead of a traditional bun.

Sensational Serving Suggestions

The perfect shrimp burger is all about the toppings that complement its fresh, savory flavor.

• Classic Style: Serve on a toasted brioche bun with crisp lettuce, a juicy slice of tomato, and a generous smear of tartar sauce or a spicy remoulade.
• Avocado Dream: Top with creamy mashed avocado or guacamole, pickled red onions, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.
• Spicy & Tangy: A sriracha-lime aioli paired with a crunchy coleslaw makes for an incredible flavor combination.
• Surf and Turf: For an indulgent meal, serve the shrimp burger alongside a small grilled steak or some crispy bacon.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

For a flawless shrimp burger every time, sidestep these common pitfalls:

• Over-processing the Shrimp: Putting all the shrimp in a food processor will result in a mushy, pasty texture. The combination of finely chopped and roughly chopped shrimp is key.
• Over-mixing the Patty Mixture: Overworking the mixture can make the burgers tough. Mix until the ingredients are just combined.
• Making the Patties Too Thick: If the patties are too thick, the outside may burn before the inside is cooked through. Aim for a thickness of about ½ to ¾-inch.
• Pressing on the Burgers While Cooking: Resist the urge to press down on the patties with your spatula. This squeezes out the delicious juices and can lead to a dry burger.

Storing and Reheating Tips

These burgers are best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can still be a treat.

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover cooked patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: The best way to reheat the patties is in a skillet over medium heat or in an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warmed through. This helps to maintain their crispy exterior.
• Can I Freeze Them? You can freeze the uncooked patties. Place them on a parchment-lined tray to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Your New Go-To Burger Recipe

This homemade shrimp burger recipe is your ticket to a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious meal that feels truly special. The fresh, succulent flavor of the shrimp, combined with the perfect blend of spices, creates a burger experience that is second to none. It’s a versatile and satisfying dish that proves a great burger doesn’t always have to be made with beef.

I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this simple recipe a try and discover your new favorite burger. Let me know what you think and share your favorite topping combinations in the comments below. For more delicious recipes that are sure to impress, don’t forget to subscribe!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use cooked shrimp for this recipe?

It is not recommended. Using raw shrimp is essential for the ingredients to bind together properly and for achieving the best texture. Cooked shrimp would result in a rubbery, dry burger.

Why are my shrimp burgers falling apart?

This can happen if the shrimp isn’t chopped correctly (not enough finely chopped shrimp to act as a binder) or if the mixture is too wet. Ensure your shrimp is patted dry. If the mixture still feels too loose, you can add an extra tablespoon or two of breadcrumbs.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use certified gluten-free breadcrumbs. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

What is the best type of bun to use for a shrimp burger?

A soft but sturdy bun is ideal. Brioche buns are a popular choice for their slight sweetness and rich texture, but a good quality potato roll or whole wheat bun would also be delicious.