How to Make the Perfect Shrimp Burger

Dive into a flavor-packed seafood burger experience with this irresistible shrimp burger recipe. Perfect for foodies, burger lovers, and seafood enthusiasts alike, this recipe brings a fresh twist to your burger game. Packed with juicy shrimp patties and paired with a tangy homemade sauce, this burger offers a burst of flavors that are both comforting and sophisticated.

Whether you're planning a summer cookout or a casual weeknight dinner, this shrimp burger is a must-try. By the end of this post, you’ll have all the tips and techniques to create a perfectly balanced and drool-worthy meal.

Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Burger

This shrimp burger checks all the right boxes for an unforgettable meal. Here’s why you should consider whipping up this recipe today:

• Fresh Seafood Flavor: Juicy and tender shrimp patties bring the ocean straight to your plate.
• Unique Twist on Classic Burgers: Perfect for anyone looking to swap the typical beef patty for something lighter and nutrient-packed.
• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps and pantry staples, you can create this gourmet-style burger at home.
• Customizable: From spicy mayo to pickled toppings, you can make it exactly the way you like it.

Recipe Ingredients

For a restaurant-quality shrimp burger, you’ll need fresh ingredients to build layers of flavor. This recipe serves four people.

For the Shrimp Patties:

• 1 pound (450g) raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce:

• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon sriracha or hot sauce (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon fresh lime juice

For Assembly:

• 4 brioche burger buns, toasted
• Butter lettuce leaves
• Tomato slices
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• Dill pickles (optional)

How to Make Shrimp Burgers

Making shrimp burgers at home is easier than you might think! Follow these steps for a foolproof recipe.

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Thoroughly rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel. Divide the shrimp into two halves. Roughly chop one half into bite-sized pieces and set aside for texture. Place the other half in a food processor and pulse until it forms a chunky paste.

Step 2: Make the Shrimp Patties

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shrimp paste with the chopped shrimp. Add panko breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, garlic, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything gently until it comes together.

Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape them into burger patties. For best results, chill the patties in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before cooking, as this helps them hold their shape.

Step 3: Cook the Patties

Heat a nonstick skillet or grill pan over medium heat and lightly oil the surface. Cook each shrimp patty for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. The patties should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Step 4: Make the Sauce

While the patties are cooking, whisk together the mayonnaise, sriracha, and lime juice in a small bowl. This spicy mayo adds the perfect zesty complement to the shrimp burgers.

Step 5: Assemble Your Burgers

Toast the brioche buns for added texture and warmth. Layer the bottom buns with butter lettuce, then place a shrimp patty on top. Add tomato slices, red onion, and a generous dollop of the spicy mayo sauce. Finish with the top bun, and don’t forget to add dill pickles if you love an extra tangy bite!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve these shrimp burgers immediately while they're hot, with a side of crispy fries, coleslaw, or a green salad. Enjoy the flavors of summer (or the seaside) in every mouthwatering bite.

Pro Tips for the Best Shrimp Burger

Achieving burger perfection requires a few insider tips:

• Use Fresh Shrimp: The fresher the shrimp, the better the flavor. Avoid pre-cooked shrimp for this recipe, as they won’t bind well for the patties.
• Don’t Overmix: Gently combine the ingredients to retain texture. Overmixing can result in dense, rubbery patties.
• Chill the Patties: This simple step makes it easier to cook the patties without them falling apart.
• Toast the Buns: A quick toast will add a layer of crunch and prevent the buns from getting soggy.

Variations to Try

Looking to put your spin on this shrimp burger recipe? Here are a few ways to switch things up:

• Go Gluten-Free: Replace panko breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs. Serve on a lettuce wrap instead of a brioche bun.
• Add a Kick: Mix chopped jalapeños into the patty mixture or increase the amount of sriracha in the sauce.
• Tropical Flavor: Top your burger with grilled pineapple slices and a dollop of teriyaki sauce for a Hawaiian-inspired twist.

The Health Benefits of Shrimp Burgers

Not only are shrimp burgers delicious, but they also pack a nutritional punch. Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and key vitamins like B12 and D. Additionally, shrimp is low in calories, making it a lighter alternative to traditional beef burgers.

Final Thoughts: A Burger You’ll Crave Again and Again

This shrimp burger recipe is a showstopper for your next dinner or gathering. It's fresh, flavorful, and ridiculously easy to make. It combines the best of land and sea, creating a vibrant culinary experience that your taste buds won’t forget.

If you love seafood and burgers, this is your sign to bring them together in the form of this incredible shrimp burger.