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If you’re craving a dish that bursts with vibrant flavors and textures, look no further than this Savory Shrimp Burgers with Cilantro and Creamy Guacamole Recipe. Picture juicy, tender shrimp patties seasoned to perfection with smoky paprika and fresh cilantro, nestled in a toasted bun, then crowned with zesty, creamy guacamole that brings a refreshing, tangy kick. Each bite is a perfect blend of savory, bright, and satisfying, making these shrimp burgers an instant favorite for lunch, dinner, or even a festive gathering with friends. I’m so excited to share this recipe that’s as simple to prepare as it is delicious to devour!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a starring role, working harmoniously to deliver a balance of fresh, savory, and creamy that makes these shrimp burgers unforgettable. From the plump shrimp providing the base, to the lively cilantro and the luscious guacamole, each item contributes delicious depth and texture.
- Raw Shrimp (1 pound): Fresh, peeled, and deveined shrimp is the star, lending sweetness and a tender bite to your patties.
- Breadcrumbs (1 cup): These are essential to hold the patties together while adding a subtle chewiness; gluten-free works great too!
- Fresh Cilantro (1/2 cup): Bright and herbaceous, cilantro infuses the burgers with a fresh, citrusy zing.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): A must for depth and a gentle kick of savory warmth.
- Ground Cumin (1 teaspoon): Adds earthy complexity and a hint of nuttiness to the shrimp mixture.
- Paprika (1 teaspoon): Smoked paprika is recommended for that subtle smoky aroma that elevates the flavor.
- Salt and Pepper (1 teaspoon each): To season perfectly and enhance all the flavors.
- Egg (1 large, beaten): Acts as a natural binder so your patties hold their shape beautifully on the grill or skillet.
- Lime Juice (2 tablespoons): Tangy lime juice brightens the shrimp and ties the flavors together spectacularly.
- Avocado (2 medium): Ripe and creamy, avocado is the heart of the guacamole, making it irresistibly luscious.
- Red Onion (1/4 cup, diced): Adds crunch and a touch of sharpness to the guacamole’s creaminess.
- Jalapeño (1 small, optional): Perfect if you love a gentle heat kick, finely diced for bursts of spice.
- Extra Lime Juice (1 tablespoon): For mixing into the guacamole, lending it freshness and vibrancy.
- Burger Buns (4 pieces): Soft, lightly toasted buns make the perfect vessel—or swap for crisp lettuce wraps for a lighter option.
- Lettuce (1 cup, shredded): Adds crunch, color, and a refreshing contrast to the creamy and savory elements.
- Tomato (1 medium, sliced): Juicy and sweet, tomato slices add another layer of freshness and color.
How to Make Savory Shrimp Burgers with Cilantro and Creamy Guacamole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp Mixture
Start by pulsing the peeled and deveined raw shrimp in a food processor just until they are coarsely chopped—don’t overdo it or you’ll end up with shrimp paste! Transfer the chopped shrimp to a large mixing bowl to get ready for the flavor-packed mix.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients for Patties
Add the breadcrumbs, chopped fresh cilantro, minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, beaten egg, and fresh lime juice to the shrimp. Stir everything together gently but thoroughly until each piece of shrimp is coated and the mixture looks evenly combined. This blend is what makes these burgers so deliciously savory and herbaceous.
Step 3: Shape the Patties
Form the mixture into four sturdy patties, about 1 inch thick each. Firmness is key so the patties hold together well while cooking—if the mix feels too loose, a little extra breadcrumb can help.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp Burgers
Heat your grill or skillet to medium, and lightly grease it to prevent sticking. Grill or pan-fry the patties for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side, until they develop a beautiful golden crust and are cooked through. The aroma alone will make your mouth water!
Step 5: Make the Creamy Guacamole
While the patties cook, mash the ripe avocados in a bowl until smooth yet slightly chunky. Stir in diced red onion, optional jalapeño for a touch of heat, a pinch of salt, and a splash of lime juice. This creamy, zesty guacamole is the perfect topping that complements the savory shrimp patties flawlessly.
Step 6: Assemble Your Burgers
Lightly toast the burger buns, then layer each with shredded lettuce, a juicy shrimp patty, a generous dollop of creamy guacamole, and a tomato slice. The textures and flavors from soft bun, crispy lettuce, juicy tomato, and creamy avocado come together in every bite for an unforgettable experience.
How to Serve Savory Shrimp Burgers with Cilantro and Creamy Guacamole Recipe
Garnishes
Freshness is everything here—add extra cilantro leaves or a squeeze of lime right before serving for a bright pop. Thin slices of red onion or a few jalapeño rings bring vibrant color and a mild kick that perfectly highlight the savory qualities of the shrimp.
Side Dishes
These shrimp burgers pair wonderfully with simple sides like crispy sweet potato fries, a cool cucumber salad, or even Mexican street corn for a festive touch. Light and fresh sides help balance the richness of the guacamole while echoing the citrusy notes in the patties.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling adventurous? Swap burger buns for large lettuce leaves to create shrimp burger wraps for a low-carb option. Or serve the patties on toasted baguette slices with dollops of guacamole as elegant sliders for party appetizers. No matter the presentation, these flavors shine.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftover cooked shrimp patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the guacamole separate to maintain its fresh, creamy texture. When ready to eat, reassemble with fresh toppings for the best experience.
Freezing
If you want to freeze these shrimp burgers, shape the patties but do not cook them yet. Place them on a parchment-lined tray to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They keep well for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the cooked patties in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the oven to avoid drying them out. Avoid the microwave if possible to maintain their tender, juicy texture. Add fresh guacamole and toppings after reheating for maximum flavor.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before processing to avoid excess moisture in the patties.
How spicy is the guacamole with jalapeño?
The jalapeño adds a gentle, manageable heat that can be adjusted by removing seeds or reducing the amount. You can also omit it entirely if you prefer mild flavors.
What’s the best way to prevent the shrimp patties from falling apart?
Using breadcrumbs and an egg provides structure, but make sure not to over-process the shrimp or over-handle the mixture when forming patties. Firm shaping and gentle cooking on medium heat help keep them intact.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Just use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular ones to suit gluten-sensitive diets without compromising on texture.
Can I make the guacamole ahead of time?
You can make the guacamole a few hours ahead, just cover it tightly with plastic wrap pressed onto the surface to prevent browning. Add a little extra lime juice to keep it fresh longer.
Final Thoughts
This Savory Shrimp Burgers with Cilantro and Creamy Guacamole Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings together the best of fresh seafood, vibrant herbs, and luscious avocado into one unforgettable bite. Whether you’re grilling for a casual dinner or impressing friends with a unique twist on a classic burger, these shrimp burgers come together easily and deliver big on flavor. Give this recipe a try—you’ll be glad you did!
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Savory Shrimp Burgers with Cilantro and Creamy Guacamole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Savory Shrimp Burgers with Cilantro and Creamy Guacamole are a quick and flavorful meal perfect for seafood lovers. Juicy shrimp patties blended with fresh herbs and spices, paired with a zesty avocado-based guacamole, and served on toasted buns or lettuce wraps make for a light yet satisfying dish ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Shrimp Burgers
- 1 pound Raw Shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup Breadcrumbs (regular or gluten-free)
- 1/2 cup Fresh Cilantro, chopped
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin
- 1 teaspoon Paprika (smoked suggested)
- 1 teaspoon Salt, to taste
- 1 teaspoon Pepper, to taste
- 1 large Egg, beaten
- 2 tablespoons Lime Juice, fresh
Guacamole
- 2 medium Avocados
- 1/4 cup Red Onion, diced
- 1 small Jalapeño, optional, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon Lime Juice
- Salt, to taste
To Serve
- 4 pieces Burger Buns (or lettuce wraps)
- 1 cup Lettuce, shredded
- 1 medium Tomato, sliced
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: Pulse the peeled and deveined raw shrimp in a food processor until coarsely chopped. Transfer the chopped shrimp to a mixing bowl for the next step.
- Make the Patty Mixture: Combine the chopped shrimp with breadcrumbs, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, beaten egg, and lime juice. Stir well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Form Patties: Shape the shrimp mixture into firm patties about 1 inch thick, ensuring they hold together well for cooking.
- Heat Cooking Surface: Preheat your grill or skillet to medium heat and lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Patties: Grill or pan-fry the shrimp patties for 4-5 minutes on each side or until they are cooked through and have a nice golden exterior.
- Prepare Guacamole: In a bowl, mash the avocados until smooth. Mix in the diced red onion, optional jalapeño, lime juice, and salt to taste for a creamy and flavorful guacamole.
- Assemble the Burgers: Lightly toast the burger buns. Place one shrimp patty on each bun, spread a generous amount of guacamole on top, then garnish with shredded lettuce and sliced tomato.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve your savory shrimp burgers immediately while warm and enjoy the delicious blend of flavors and textures.
Notes
- Using gluten-free breadcrumbs makes this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
- Adjust the jalapeño amount according to your preferred spice level or omit for a milder guacamole.
- For a lower carb option, serve the patties wrapped in lettuce instead of buns.
- Ensure shrimp is fresh and properly deveined for best flavor and safety.
- If a food processor is unavailable, finely chop shrimp by hand, but the texture will be coarser.
