Crispy Cheesy Garlic Shrimp Bombs are golden and crunchy on the outside while packed with gooey, melty cheese on the inside. They make a perfect appetizer, snack, or main dish, combining the flavors of shrimp, garlic, and cheese in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy to prepare with simple ingredients
Crispy coating with a creamy, cheesy center
Full of garlicky, savory flavor
Great for parties, snacks, or family dinners
Can be prepped ahead and cooked when needed
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) for baking, or heat oil in a skillet if frying.
In a small bowl, combine cream cheese, mozzarella, cheddar, parsley, minced garlic, and paprika until smooth.
Season shrimp with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
Make a small slit along the back of each shrimp, without cutting completely through.
Stuff each shrimp with about 1 teaspoon of the cheese mixture.
Set up a dredging station: flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, panko breadcrumbs in a third.
Coat each stuffed shrimp with flour, dip in eggs, then coat with breadcrumbs.
For baking: place shrimp on a greased baking sheet, drizzle with melted butter, and bake 12–15 minutes until golden and crispy.
For frying: heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry shrimp 2–3 minutes per side until golden.
Serve immediately while warm.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Variations
Add 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper to the cheese mixture for a spicy kick
Substitute mozzarella and cheddar with gouda or pepper jack
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes to maintain crispiness
Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, thaw completely and pat dry before preparing to ensure the coating sticks.
Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking or frying.
Can I bake instead of frying?
Yes, baking produces a crispy exterior without extra oil.
Can I use other cheeses?
Yes, any melty cheese such as gouda or pepper jack works well.
How do I make them extra crispy?
Double-coat the shrimp with breadcrumbs or bake/fry at a slightly higher temperature.
Are these spicy?
The recipe is mild. Add cayenne or chili powder for heat.
Can I freeze them?
Yes, freeze unbaked stuffed shrimp on a tray, then transfer to a bag. Cook directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
What can I serve with these?
Serve with garlic aioli, cocktail sauce, or a simple side salad.
Can I use smaller shrimp?
Yes, adjust the stuffing quantity and slightly reduce cooking time.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, the creamy, cheesy filling and mild flavor make it appealing to children.
Conclusion
Crispy Cheesy Garlic Shrimp Bombs are an irresistible combination of crunchy shrimp and melted cheese. Easy to make and packed with flavor, they are perfect for family meals, parties, or a satisfying snack any time.
Crispy Cheesy Garlic Shrimp Bombs are golden, crunchy shrimp stuffed with a creamy blend of cheeses, garlic, and herbs. Perfect as an appetizer or main dish, they deliver a crispy coating with a gooey, flavorful center in every bite.
