Golden and crispy on the outside, yet rich and creamy on the inside, this Baked Shrimp Toast is a perfect blend of textures and flavors. The shrimp mixture, combined with garlic, scallions, and a luscious butter-mayo base, creates a savory topping that’s both indulgent and comforting. The fresh basil garnish adds a delicate herbal note, complementing the sweet and succulent shrimp. Perfect as a party appetizer, brunch dish, or even a late-night snack, this Crispy Garlic Shrimp Toast is incredibly easy to prepare. You can experiment with different bread options, add a cheesy twist, or spice it up with a sprinkle of cayenne. Whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself, this recipe guarantees an irresistible bite every time!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 6 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 ½ teaspoons grated garlic
- 1 ½ tablespoons thinly sliced scallions (about 2 stalks)
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 baguette or ciabatta
- Fresh basil, thinly sliced (for garnish)
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Chop shrimp into small pieces or briefly pulse in a food processor. Do not turn into a paste.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shrimp, mayonnaise, melted butter, grated garlic, scallions, and a generous amount of black pepper.
- Slice the baguette or ciabatta in half horizontally, or cut the baguette into thin slices (no thicker than 1 inch).
- Spread the shrimp mixture evenly over the cut side of the bread.
- Arrange the bread on a baking sheet and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the bread is crispy.
- Remove from oven, sprinkle with fresh basil, and serve immediately.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal per serving | Servings: 4
The History and Inspiration Behind Shrimp Toast
Shrimp toast is a popular dish found in various Asian cuisines, particularly in Chinese and Vietnamese cooking. In China, it is commonly known as “prawn toast” and is often deep-fried for a crunchy texture. The Cantonese version typically involves finely chopped shrimp mixed with seasonings, spread onto bread, and then fried to a golden crisp.
In Vietnam, there is a similar dish called “bánh mì quết tôm”, which consists of a shrimp and mayonnaise mixture spread onto baguette slices, then fried or baked. This version is commonly enjoyed as a street food snack or a homemade treat for special occasions.
The baked version of shrimp toast is a healthier take on the traditional fried version. Instead of deep-frying, the shrimp mixture is spread onto slices of baguette or ciabatta and then baked until golden brown. This method preserves the crispy texture while reducing excess oil, making it a lighter yet equally delicious alternative.
Why You’ll Love This Baked Shrimp Toast Recipe
This baked shrimp toast recipe is an excellent addition to any meal plan because it is:
✅ Quick and Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
✅ Healthier than Fried Shrimp Toast – Baking instead of frying reduces excess oil while still delivering a crispy texture.
✅ Packed with Flavor – A combination of garlic, scallions, butter, and mayonnaise creates a rich and aromatic topping.
✅ Perfect for Any Occasion – Serve it as an appetizer, brunch dish, or even a light dinner option.
✅ Customizable – Add cheese, spice it up with cayenne, or experiment with different herbs to make it your own.
If you love seafood-based appetizers, this dish is a must-try. It pairs well with salads, soups, or even a light dipping sauce to enhance the flavors further.
Tips for Making the Best Baked Shrimp Toast
While this recipe is simple, there are a few key tips to ensure your shrimp toast turns out perfectly every time:
1. Use Fresh or High-Quality Shrimp
Since shrimp is the star ingredient in this dish, choosing fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp is essential. If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before chopping.
2. Chop the Shrimp Properly
For the best texture, chop the shrimp finely by hand or pulse briefly in a food processor. Avoid over-processing, as you don’t want the shrimp mixture to become a paste. A coarse chop ensures that each bite is packed with juicy shrimp pieces.
3. Choose the Right Bread
A crusty baguette or ciabatta works best for shrimp toast. These bread types hold up well to the creamy shrimp mixture and become deliciously crispy when baked. Avoid using soft sandwich bread, as it may become soggy.
4. Don’t Skimp on the Garlic and Scallions
Garlic and scallions add depth of flavor to the shrimp mixture. Make sure to use fresh garlic and thinly sliced scallions for the best results. You can also add a pinch of onion powder for extra umami.
5. Add Cheese for a Creamier Texture (Optional)
While traditional shrimp toast does not include cheese, some variations incorporate parmesan, mozzarella, or cheddar for added richness. If you enjoy the shrimp-and-cheese combination, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top before baking for a golden, melty finish.
6. Bake at the Right Temperature
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure the bread becomes crispy and the shrimp mixture cooks evenly. Baking for 15-18 minutes should be enough to achieve a golden brown finish without overcooking the shrimp.
7. Garnish with Fresh Basil or Herbs
A sprinkle of fresh basil, cilantro, or parsley after baking adds a fresh, herbaceous note that complements the rich, creamy shrimp topping.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Baked shrimp toast is a versatile dish that pairs well with various side dishes and dips. Here are a few ideas to elevate your meal:
🥗 Serve with a Fresh Salad
Pair shrimp toast with a light green salad or a refreshing cucumber salad to balance the richness of the dish.
🥣 Enjoy with Soup
A warm bowl of tomato soup, clam chowder, or miso soup complements the flavors of shrimp toast beautifully.
🍋 Add a Squeeze of Citrus
A squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice right before serving enhances the brightness of the dish.
🥣 Try a Dipping Sauce
While shrimp toast is flavorful on its own, you can serve it with:
- Sweet chili sauce for a touch of heat
- Garlic aioli for extra creaminess
- Soy sauce with a splash of sesame oil for an Asian-inspired dip
Variations and Customizations
One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is! Here are a few fun variations to try:
🔹 Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or Sriracha to the shrimp mixture for a spicy twist.
🔹 Cheesy Version: Mix some grated parmesan or shredded mozzarella into the shrimp mixture or sprinkle cheese on top before baking.
🔹 Herb Lovers’ Twist: Experiment with fresh dill, chives, or parsley instead of basil for a different flavor profile.
🔹 Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free bread or sliced sweet potatoes as a base for a low-carb, gluten-free alternative.
Conclusion:
Baked Shrimp Toast is an easy, delicious, and crowd-pleasing appetizer that delivers bold flavors and a satisfying crunch. Whether you’re making it for a party, brunch, or a quick snack, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit.
By using fresh shrimp, the right bread, and a flavorful garlic-butter-mayo base, you can create a crispy, golden-brown treat that pairs perfectly with soups, salads, or your favorite dipping sauces. Plus, it’s highly customizable so you can make it spicy, cheesy, or even gluten-free based on your preferences.
