Shrimp Cheese Turnovers
Shrimp Cheese Turnovers are delightful bite-sized pastries filled with tender shrimp and creamy cheese spread, wrapped in flaky pastry. Perfect as appetizers or party snacks, they combine savory flavors with a crispy texture, appealing to seafood lovers and those seeking a savory treat for gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut butter and cream cheese into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Work with your hands to form the mixture into a ball.
- Cover and chill the dough for 1 hour.
- On a floured surface, roll half of the dough into an 11-inch circle.
- Cut the circle into 2-inch rounds using a floured cutter.
- Spread each round with about 1/2 teaspoon of cheese spread.
- Place a few shrimp on top of the cheese spread.
- Fold each round in half and seal the edges to form turnovers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flakier texture, ensure your butter and cream cheese are cold before mixing. If you're out of cheese spread with pimento, you can substitute with any flavored cream cheese or even a homemade cheese spread. For an added kick, consider mixing in some chopped jalapeños or herbs to the cheese spread. These turnovers can also be made with fresh shrimp for a different flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these shrimp cheese turnovers warm, paired with a zesty dipping sauce like a cocktail sauce or a homemade garlic aioli. They make a great appetizer for gatherings or as part of a seafood-themed meal. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside a fresh salad or some roasted vegetables, which complement the flavors beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover turnovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy. Avoid using a microwave, as it can make the turnovers soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shrimp Cheese Turnovers contains roughly 584 calories, with 7g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 53g fat. It is a good source of protein (14% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (12% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze these shrimp cheese turnovers?
Yes, you can freeze the turnovers before baking. Just assemble them, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time for best results.
What can I use instead of shrimp?
If you're not a fan of shrimp, you can easily substitute it with cooked crab meat or even shredded chicken. Both options will provide a delicious filling. For a vegetarian twist, consider using sautéed mushrooms or spinach mixed with cheese, making them a versatile option for various dietary preferences.
How do I ensure my dough doesn’t get too tough?
To keep the dough tender, avoid overworking it once you combine the ingredients. Mixing until just combined is key. If the dough feels too sticky, add a touch more flour, but be cautious not to add too much. Chilling the dough also helps maintain its structure and flakiness when baked.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).