Shrimp Croquettes
Crispy shrimp croquettes feature tender shrimp encased in a golden breadcrumb crust, perfect as an appetizer or snack with a savory, mildly spicy flavor profile.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a large heavy pan over low heat, whisk in flour, and cook, whisking constantly, for 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in milk and cook over medium heat, whisking constantly until thickened and bubbly.
- Stir in minced onion, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and cayenne.
- Remove from heat and stir in 1 beaten egg and chopped cooked shrimp, then cover and chill for 1 hour.
- Shape the shrimp mixture into 16 balls, roll each in cracker crumbs, dip in beaten eggs, then roll again in crumbs.
- Fry croquettes in 3 inches of vegetable oil for 3 to 4 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Drain on paper towels before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter croquette, try substituting half of the butter with olive oil. If you don't have cracker crumbs, crushed cornflakes or panko can work in a pinch. Make sure to keep the mixture chilled before frying to maintain the shape. For added flavor, consider mixing in some Old Bay seasoning or fresh herbs like parsley or dill.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the shrimp croquettes with a tangy remoulade or cocktail sauce for dipping. They make a great appetizer or snack for parties. Pair them with a light salad or some garlic buttered corn on the side. These croquettes are also an excellent addition to a seafood platter alongside dishes like Lobster Mousse 'Cape Cod'.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover shrimp croquettes 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, or until heated through and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shrimp Croquettes contains roughly 140 calories, with 5g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (18% of the Daily Value), protein (11% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (10% 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 use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess moisture before chopping. This ensures the mixture doesn't become too watery, which can affect the texture of your croquettes.
What can I substitute for the Worcestershire sauce?
If you don't have Worcestershire sauce, you can substitute it with soy sauce or a mixture of soy sauce and a little vinegar. This will give a similar depth of flavor to the croquettes. Alternatively, a dash of hot sauce can add a nice kick.
How can I make these croquettes spicier?
To add more spice to your shrimp croquettes, increase the cayenne pepper or mix in some diced jalapeños. You can also serve them with a spicy dipping sauce, such as sriracha or a chipotle mayo, for an extra kick.
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).