These crispy cheesy garlic shrimp bombs are the kind of appetizer that disappears fast. Juicy shrimp wrapped around melty mozzarella and coated in a golden, crunchy crust make every bite rich, savory, and satisfying. Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or a special weekend treat, this recipe delivers restaurant-style flavor right at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You get the perfect balance of textures with crunchy breadcrumbs on the outside and gooey cheese on the inside. The garlic and seasoning blend adds bold flavor without overpowering the shrimp. This recipe is simple to prepare, works for both frying and air frying, and is guaranteed to impress guests of all ages.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 lb large shrimp, peeled, deveined, and butterflied
6 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into 24 small cubes
½ cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp Italian seasoning
¾ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
2 cups neutral frying oil (such as vegetable or sunflower oil)
2 tbsp fresh chives or parsley, finely chopped, for garnish
Directions
Begin by placing one cube of mozzarella inside each butterflied shrimp. Gently press the shrimp closed around the cheese and set aside.
Prepare three shallow bowls. Add the flour to the first bowl. Place the beaten eggs in the second bowl. In the third bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
Dredge each stuffed shrimp in the flour, shaking off excess. Dip it into the beaten eggs, then press firmly into the breadcrumb mixture to fully coat all sides.
Heat the oil in a deep skillet or saucepan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the shrimp in batches for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
For air frying, preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the coated shrimp with oil and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, turning halfway, until crisp and golden.
Garnish with chopped chives or parsley and serve immediately while hot.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people as an appetizer.
Prep time is approximately 20 minutes.
Cook time is about 10 minutes.
Total time required is around 30 minutes.
Variations
For a spicier version, add ½ teaspoon chili powder or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture.
Swap mozzarella with mild cheddar or provolone for a different cheese flavor.
Add finely grated lemon zest to the breadcrumbs for a bright citrus note.
Bake the shrimp at 425°F (220°C) for 12 to 14 minutes if you prefer an oven method.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover shrimp bombs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in an oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5 to 7 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it softens the coating.
FAQs
Can I prepare these shrimp ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble and bread the shrimp up to 6 hours ahead and refrigerate them until ready to cook.
What size shrimp works best?
Large shrimp work best because they can hold the cheese without tearing.
Can I freeze cheesy shrimp bombs?
Yes, freeze them uncooked on a tray, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to one month.
How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?
Make sure the shrimp are tightly wrapped around the cheese and well coated with breadcrumbs.
Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
No, raw shrimp are recommended so they cook properly and stay juicy.
What oil is best for frying?
Neutral oils with high smoke points, such as vegetable or sunflower oil, are ideal.
Are these suitable for kids?
Yes, they are mild, cheesy, and very kid-friendly.
Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
What dipping sauces go well with this recipe?
Garlic sauce, creamy herb dip, or a mild chili sauce pair well with these shrimp bombs.
Can I make them without frying?
Yes, air frying or baking are great alternatives with slightly less crispiness.
Conclusion
Crispy cheesy garlic shrimp bombs are a guaranteed hit for any occasion. With their crunchy coating, juicy shrimp, and molten cheese center, they bring bold flavor and irresistible texture to the table. Once you try them, they are sure to become a go-to appetizer in your kitchen.
Crunchy, golden shrimp bombs stuffed with melty mozzarella and seasoned with garlic, herbs, and Parmesan. Perfect as a party appetizer or weekend treat, these bites deliver restaurant-style flavor at home.
Ingredients
1 lb large shrimp, peeled, deveined, and butterflied
6 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into 24 small cubes
½ cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp Italian seasoning
¾ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
2 cups neutral frying oil (vegetable or sunflower)
2 tbsp fresh chives or parsley, finely chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Place a cube of mozzarella inside each butterflied shrimp and press to close.
Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Dredge each shrimp in flour, then dip in eggs, and coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture.
For frying: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep skillet. Fry shrimp in batches for 2–3 minutes per side until golden. Drain on paper towels.
For air frying: Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Spray shrimp with oil and cook for 8–10 minutes, turning halfway.
Garnish with chopped chives or parsley and serve hot.
Notes
Ensure shrimp are tightly wrapped around cheese to prevent leaking during cooking.
Add chili powder for a spicy kick, or lemon zest for a citrus note.
Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
Best served fresh, but can be reheated in oven or air fryer.
