Crispy Cheesy Garlic Shrimp Bombs
Description
Crunchy on the outside, gooey and cheesy on the inside—these Crispy Cheesy Garlic Shrimp Bombs are the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer. Juicy shrimp wrapped around melty mozzarella, coated in a garlicky Parmesan crust, and fried (or air-fried) to golden perfection. One bite and everyone’s hooked 😍
Ingredients
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1 lb large shrimp, peeled, deveined & butterflied
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6 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
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½ cup all-purpose flour
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2 large eggs, beaten
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1 cup panko breadcrumbs
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 tsp garlic powder
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½ tsp paprika
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½ tsp Italian seasoning
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Salt & black pepper, to taste
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Oil for frying (or cooking spray for air fryer)
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Fresh chives or parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
Directions
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Prepare the Shrimp
Pat shrimp dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Place a cube of mozzarella inside each butterflied shrimp and gently press closed. -
Set Up Breading Station
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Bowl 1: Flour
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Bowl 2: Beaten eggs
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Bowl 3: Panko breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning
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Bread the Shrimp Bombs
Roll each stuffed shrimp in flour, dip into egg, then coat generously in the seasoned breadcrumb mixture. Press gently so coating sticks well. -
Chill (Optional but Recommended)
Place breaded shrimp in the fridge for 15 minutes—this helps keep the cheese from leaking during cooking. -
Cook
Frying Method:
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Heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
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Fry shrimp bombs in batches for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
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Drain on paper towels.
Air Fryer Method:
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Preheat air fryer to 390°F (200°C).
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Spray shrimp lightly with oil.
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Air fry for 7–9 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp.
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Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle with chopped chives or parsley and serve hot with dipping sauce.