Crispy Shrimp Burrito Bites

These Crispy Shrimp Burrito Bites are the perfect combination of juicy shrimp, creamy sauce, and crispy breading. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a fun appetizer, or craving a satisfying snack, these bite-sized delights will hit the spot. The shrimp filling is seasoned perfectly with a smoky paprika kick, complemented by a tangy, creamy sauce that ties everything together. After being coated in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs, these bites are fried to crispy perfection. Easy to make and packed with flavor, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a winning combination of crispy, crunchy, and creamy. The shrimp is tender, flavorful, and perfectly complemented by the creamy sauce. Plus, the fun factor of biting into these little burrito rolls will appeal to both kids and adults alike. They’re quick to prepare and fry, making them the ideal snack or appetizer for any occasion. The balance of textures—crispy on the outside and tender on the inside—combined with the burst of flavors from the shrimp and creamy sauce, makes each bite irresistible.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp Filling:

1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (small or medium size)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt & pepper to taste
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)

For the Creamy Sauce:
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sour cream
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh chopped parsley or cilantro
Salt and pepper to taste

For Assembly:
6 small flour tortillas
1 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese
Toothpicks (for holding them together)

For Frying:
1 egg, beaten
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs or panko
Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Shrimp:
   Toss the shrimp with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Sauté in a hot skillet for 3-4 minutes until pink and cooked through. Set aside.

2. Make the Creamy Sauce:
   In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Chill the sauce until you’re ready to use it.

3. Assemble the Burrito Bites:
   Warm the tortillas slightly to make them easier to roll. Spread a spoonful of the creamy sauce onto each tortilla, add a few shrimp, and sprinkle with shredded cheese. Roll up each tortilla tightly and secure with toothpicks.

4. Coat for Frying:
   Dip each rolled tortilla into flour, then coat in the beaten egg, followed by a coating of breadcrumbs or panko.

5. Fry:
   Heat oil in a skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry the burrito bites for about 2-3 minutes per side or until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.

6. Serve:
   Drizzle with extra creamy sauce and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields 6 burrito bites (1 per tortilla).
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15-20 minutes
Total time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Shrimp Burrito Bites: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the shrimp seasoning to give the bites a spicy kick.

• Vegetarian Version: Substitute the shrimp with sautéed vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers for a vegetarian-friendly option.

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and tortillas to make these bites suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

• Cheese Variations: Swap mozzarella or Monterey Jack for other cheeses like cheddar, pepper jack, or even cream cheese for a different flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover burrito bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until crispy again. You can also use an air fryer to reheat them for a few minutes to restore their crispiness.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp can be used, but make sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

Can I make these in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the burrito bites and coat them in breadcrumbs ahead of time. Store them in the fridge for up to 4 hours before frying.

What type of tortillas work best?

Small flour tortillas work best for this recipe, but you can use corn tortillas if you prefer.

Can I bake these instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.

Can I use a different sauce instead of the creamy one?

Sure! You can swap the creamy sauce with a tangy salsa, guacamole, or even a spicy aioli.

How do I know when the shrimp is fully cooked?

Shrimp turns pink and opaque when fully cooked. It should be firm to the touch but still juicy inside.

Can I use store-bought breadcrumbs?

Yes, store-bought seasoned breadcrumbs or panko work perfectly for coating the burrito bites.

How do I prevent the burrito bites from falling apart while frying?

Make sure the tortilla is rolled tightly and secured with toothpicks. The breading should also be fully coated to help hold everything together.

Can I freeze these burrito bites?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled and breaded burrito bites. When ready to cook, fry from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the frying time.

What can I serve with these shrimp burrito bites?

They go well with dipping sauces like ranch, chipotle mayo, or a simple squeeze of lime. A side salad or Mexican street corn can complement the dish as well.

Conclusion

Crispy Shrimp Burrito Bites are the perfect dish for anyone who loves shrimp and crunchy snacks. Whether you’re preparing them for a party or just a casual snack, their irresistible crispy exterior and flavorful shrimp filling are sure to impress. The creamy sauce adds a refreshing contrast, making each bite a delicious treat. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a winning appetizer that everyone will rave about!