Name: Spicy Shrimp Patties That Will Kickstart Your Dinner Game
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Fresh Shrimp (Raw and chopped); 2 tablespoons Avocado Oil (Can substitute with other oils); 1 medium Red Bell Pepper (Finely chopped); 2 cloves Garlic (Finely chopped); 1 medium Red Onion (Finely chopped); 1/4 cup Cilantro (Can substitute with parsley); 2 stalks Green Onion (Finely chopped); 1 small Jalapeno (Deseeded and finely chopped); 1/2 cup Panko Breadcrumbs (Opt for fine breadcrumbs); 1 large Egg (Acts as a binder); 2 tablespoons Mayonnaise (Adds moisture); 1 tablespoon Hot Pepper Sauce (Adjust to taste); 2 tablespoons Lime Juice (Freshly squeezed); 1 teaspoon Organic Sugar (Balances flavors); 1 teaspoon Salt; 1/2 teaspoon Pepper

There’s a particular thrill that comes from the sound of freshly seasoned shrimp sizzling in the air fryer. When I first experimented with making spicy shrimp patties, I was searching for a fast, satisfying meal that didn’t involve the usual takeout. What emerged was a treasure trove of flavors—crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and infused with just the right kick of spice.

These Air Fryer Spicy Shrimp Patties are not only budget-friendly but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to tailor the heat level to your liking. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an impressive snack for guests, they deliver that satisfying restaurant quality but without the hassle. Imagine serving these golden delights with a squeeze of lime or a zesty dipping sauce—it’s hard to resist! Let’s dive into how to create these crave-worthy patties that your taste buds will thank you for.

Why will you love Spicy Shrimp Patties?

Easy Preparation: The air fryer does all the hard work, producing perfectly cooked patties with minimal effort.
Tailor Your Spice: Adjust the heat level by adding or omitting jalapenos—great for picky eaters!
Flavor Explosion: Fresh ingredients like cilantro and lime juice elevate the taste, making each bite a delight.
Quick Meal: Ready in about 20 minutes, these patties are ideal for busy weeknights.
Crowd-Pleaser: Serve as a snack or appetizer, and watch them disappear at parties or family gatherings.
Versatile Enjoyment: Enjoy them warm or cold, making leftovers perfect for lunch the next day!

Spicy Shrimp Patties Ingredients

Crafting the perfect Spicy Shrimp Patties is simple with these essential ingredients.

For the Patties

Shrimp – Fresh or thawed frozen shrimp provides the main flavor; ensure it’s raw for the best texture.
Avocado Oil – A healthier oil choice for sautéing; feel free to substitute with any cooking oil you prefer.
Red Bell Pepper – Adds a sweet crunch; chop it finely before sautéing for even cooking.
Garlic – Enhances overall flavor; make sure it’s finely chopped and sautéed briefly to unlock its aroma.
Red Onion – Offers a sharp bite; finely chop it to blend well in the mixture.
Cilantro – Brightens up the patties with freshness; if you dislike cilantro, parsley is a good alternative.
Green Onion – Adds mildness and color; chop it finely for even distribution.
Jalapeno – Brings up the heat; deseed and chop finely for a milder flavor.
Panko Breadcrumbs – Creates a crispy coating and binds the mixture; opt for fine breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
Egg – Acts as a binder to keep the patties from falling apart.
Mayonnaise – Adds moisture and helps combine the dry ingredients without making them too wet.
Hot Pepper Sauce – Gives a spicy kick; adjust to your taste preference for the perfect balance.
Lime Juice – Freshly squeezed juice brightens the flavor, enhancing the overall taste profile.
Organic Sugar – Balances the spices and savory elements, creating a well-rounded flavor.
Salt & Pepper – Essential for enhancing the overall taste of the patties.

How to Make Spicy Shrimp Patties

Chop Shrimp: Start by placing your fresh or thawed shrimp into a food processor. Process until coarsely chopped, being careful not to overdo it to keep some texture.
Sauté Vegetables: Heat a pan over medium heat and add avocado oil. Sauté the finely chopped red bell pepper for about 3 minutes, then toss in the garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool.
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the chopped shrimp with the cooled sautéed vegetables, cilantro, green onions, jalapeno, breadcrumbs, egg, mayonnaise, hot sauce, lime juice, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
Form Patties: With your hands, shape the mixture into 4-6 equal patties. For an extra crisp, gently coat each patty with additional panko breadcrumbs.
Prepare Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Grease the basket lightly with oil and arrange the patties in a single layer, taking care not to overcrowd them.
Cook: Air fry the patties for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure golden perfection on both sides.
Serve: Once cooked, remove from the air fryer and serve immediately with lime wedges and a side of avocado corn salsa for dipping.

Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro or a sprinkle of lime zest for an extra touch!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Spicy Shrimp Patties

Fresh is Best: Use fresh, wild-caught shrimp for optimal flavor and texture. Frozen shrimp can work, but ensure it’s well-thawed and raw.
Avoid Over-Processing: Chop shrimp coarsely without turning it into a paste—this keeps your spicy shrimp patties textured and enjoyable.
Breadcrumb Coating: Fully coat each patty with panko for a crispy finish; overcrowding the air fryer can lead to soggy patties, so cook in batches if necessary.
Customize Your Heat: Adjust the jalapeno amount based on your spice preference; remember that omitting it will result in milder patties—perfect for kids or spice-averse eaters.
Sautéing Flavor: Sauté garlic and red bell pepper until fragrant to enhance the flavor depth; don’t skip this step—it’s crucial for your spicy shrimp patties!

Make Ahead Options

These Air Fryer Spicy Shrimp Patties are a fantastic choice for meal prep aficionados! You can chop the shrimp and sauté the vegetables up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can mix all the ingredients together (except for the breadcrumbs) up to 3 days ahead, keeping everything sealed until you’re ready to cook. When you’re prepared to whip up your patties, simply form them, coat with breadcrumbs, and air fry as directed. This allows you to enjoy a delicious, homemade meal with minimal effort on those busy evenings—the flavors will remain just as vibrant and delightful!

Spicy Shrimp Patties Variations

Customize these shrimp patties to create a unique twist that fits your palate perfectly!

Gluten-Free: Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing crunch.
Herb Boost: Try mixing in fresh dill or basil instead of cilantro for a refreshing change. Each herb brings its own delightful flavor!
Creamy Addition: Fold in some diced avocado or cream cheese into the mixture for a richer, creamier texture that melts in your mouth.
Veggie-Packed: Incorporate finely chopped spinach or zucchini to sneak in some greens and enhance the nutritional value. They’ll remain deliciously moist!
Baked Option: Instead of air frying, bake the patties at 400°F for 15-20 minutes for a healthier alternative. They’ll still be delicious!
Cheesy Delight: Add shredded cheese, such as cheddar or pepper jack, into the mixture for an ooey-gooey surprise with every bite.
Spicy Twist: For an extra kick, increase the jalapeno or include crushed red pepper flakes to the mixture. Spice lovers will rejoice!
Tropical Flair: Mix in chopped pineapple or mango to sweeten the deal, giving these patties a delightful tropical flair that complements the spice.

Storage Tips for Spicy Shrimp Patties

Fridge: Store leftover spicy shrimp patties in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: You can freeze uncooked patties for up to 3 months. Lay them flat on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag.
Reheating: Reheat cooked patties in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to restore their crispy texture.
Thawing: If frozen, thaw the patties overnight in the fridge before reheating. Enjoy them warm or cold for a delicious meal!

What to Serve with Air Fryer Spicy Shrimp Patties?

Create a delightful spread that balances the spices and complements the crispy textures of these shrimp patties.

Lime Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime juice on the patties brightens the flavors and enhances their heat, making every bite zesty.
Avocado Corn Salsa: This creamy, cool salsa pairs beautifully with the shrimp patties, offering a refreshing contrast to their spice while adding a delightful crunch.
Coconut Rice: The subtle sweetness of coconut rice provides a comforting base that complements the spicy shrimp patties, making it a hearty side for any meal.
Mix Green Salad: A vibrant salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the patties for a wholesome plate.
Garlic Aioli: Serve with a creamy garlic aioli for dipping. This rich sauce enhances the savory flavor while cooling down the spice, a classic pairing!
Chilled White Wine: A crisp, chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio elevates the dining experience, harmonizing with the shrimp’s flavors and spices.

Each of these accompaniments adds its own charm, ensuring a memorable meal that your guests will rave about!

Air Fryer Spicy Shrimp Patties Recipe FAQs

What type of shrimp should I use for the patties?
Absolutely! Fresh, wild-caught shrimp is ideal for these patties as it provides the best flavor and texture. If you prefer frozen shrimp, ensure that it is raw and fully thawed before using.

How should I store leftover shrimp patties?
Leftover shrimp patties can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure to let them cool completely before sealing to keep them fresh.

Can I freeze the spicy shrimp patties?
Yes, you can definitely freeze uncooked patties for up to 3 months. Just lay them flat on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge and air fry as directed!

What if my patties are falling apart while cooking?
If your patties are falling apart, it might be due to insufficient binding. Make sure you use enough breadcrumbs and egg in the mixture. Also, avoid over-processing the shrimp; you want a coarsely chopped texture. If that happens, try adding a little extra breadcrumbs to help bind them together.

Are these shrimp patties gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make your spicy shrimp patties gluten-free, just swap the regular panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs. It’s an easy fix that still delivers delicious results. Enjoy without worrying about dietary restrictions!

How long can I keep cooked shrimp patties in the fridge?
Cooked shrimp patties can typically be stored in the refrigerator for about 2 days. Just be sure to keep them in a tightly sealed container to maintain freshness. Enjoy them warm or cold!