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Delicious crispy shrimp bombs served as an appetizer.

Crispy Cheesy Garlic Shrimp Bombs

Crispy on the outside, gooey cheese on the inside, these shrimp bombs are a perfect savory bite for any occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Main Course, Snack
Cuisine: American, Seafood
Calories: 330

Ingredients
  

Shrimp Filling
  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled, deveined, tails removed
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 6 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into small sticks or cubes
  • 2 tbsp cream cheese, softened Room temp mixes easily.
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley or chives, finely chopped
Breading and Cooking
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs or panko Use panko for extra crunch.
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 3 tbsp butter, melted Unsalted helps control salt.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic = bigger flavor.
  • 1 tbsp chopped parsley

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Butterfly each shrimp by slicing along the back but not cutting through; press flat.
  2. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
  3. In a bowl, mix mozzarella, cream cheese, and parsley until smooth; the mix should hold together but still be soft.
  4. Spoon a little cheese into each shrimp and fold the shrimp around it, sealing the edges with a gentle press.
Breading
  1. Set up a breading station: flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and breadcrumbs mixed with paprika and Italian seasoning in a third.
  2. Dredge each shrimp bomb in flour, shake off excess, dip in egg, then coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs.
Cooking
  1. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
  2. Test with a breadcrumb—if it sizzles and browns, you’re ready.
  3. Fry the shrimp bombs in batches, about 3–4 minutes per side, until golden and crispy.
  4. Melt butter in a small pan, add minced garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Brush generously over hot shrimp bombs and sprinkle with parsley before serving.

Notes

Tips: Prepare ahead by refrigerating assembled bombs for up to 24 hours before frying. For a spice boost, dust finished shrimp with cayenne.