Name: Crispy Shrimp Toast: Your New Favorite Guilt-Free Snack
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Shrimp (Peeled and deveined); 2 cloves Garlic (Fresh minced); 2 tablespoons Green Onion (Finely chopped); 1 teaspoon Salt (Adjust to taste); 1/2 teaspoon White Pepper (Can substitute with black pepper); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Optional); 1 teaspoon Sugar (Adjust to taste); 2 tablespoons Cornstarch (Can substitute with breadcrumbs); 6 slices Bread (White or milk bread, crusts removed); 1 tablespoon Cooking Spray (For air frying); 1/2 cup Kewpie Mayo (Can use regular mayo); 1 tablespoon Sriracha (Adjust to taste)

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The smell of sizzling shrimp fills the air, inviting everyone to gather around the table. This Air Fryer Crispy Shrimp Toast brings a healthier twist to a cherished Chinese dim sum classic, proving that you can indulge without compromising on taste. In just 20 minutes, you can whip up this quick and easy snack, perfect for impressing guests or satisfying your own cravings. With options like dairy-free and whole wheat variations, it’s a versatile recipe that caters to various dietary preferences. Imagine crispy, golden bread topped with a savory shrimp filling that’s not only delightful but also guilt-free. Are you ready to transform your next gathering with this irresistible dish?

Why is This Shrimp Toast So Irresistible?

Flavorful Burst: Each bite of this Air Fryer Crispy Shrimp Toast delivers a delightful explosion of savory shrimp that makes it a crowd-pleaser.

Quick & Easy: With just 20 minutes from prep to plate, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining.

Healthier Alternative: Air frying means you enjoy all the crunch without the guilt of traditional frying, making it a feel-good choice.

Versatile Options: Whether you prefer gluten-free, whole wheat, or spicy variations, this recipe easily adapts to fit your dietary needs—try it with Dynamite Shrimp Appetizer.

Perfect for Sharing: Ideal as an appetizer or snack, it’s guaranteed to impress guests at your next gathering while keeping your meal plans exciting!

Crispy Shrimp Toast Ingredients

• Get ready for a flavorful experience!

For the Shrimp Mixture
• Shrimp – Peeled and deveined shrimp provide the main protein source for your crispy delight.
• Garlic – Fresh minced garlic adds aromatic depth; consider roasted garlic for added sweetness.
• Green Onion – Adds a refreshing crunch; shallots can also make a great substitute.
• Salt – Enhance savory flavors; adjust according to your taste preferences.
• White Pepper – Provides warmth; you can use black pepper if white isn’t available.
• Garlic Powder – Intensifies the garlic flavor; substituting with fresh garlic is also an option.
• Sugar – Balances the flavors; adjust according to your preferred sweetness.
• Cornstarch – Binds the mixture and improves texture; breadcrumbs can add extra crunch.

For the Base
• Bread – White or milk bread forms the base; don’t forget to remove the crusts for a cleaner presentation.
• Cooking Spray – Prevents sticking and promotes even cooking during air frying.

For the Dipping Sauce
• Kewpie Mayo – Adds rich creaminess to your dipping sauce; regular mayo works as a substitute.
• Sriracha – Infuses spice into the sauce; adjust according to your heat preference.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Shrimp Toast

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp Mixture
Start by finely chopping the peeled and deveined shrimp until it’s almost a paste. In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped shrimp with minced garlic, finely chopped green onions, salt, white pepper, sugar, garlic powder, and cornstarch. Mix thoroughly until you achieve a smooth and sticky consistency, ensuring each ingredient is well incorporated—this shrimp mixture forms the heart of your Crispy Shrimp Toast.

Step 2: Assemble the Toast
Take slices of white or milk bread and carefully trim off the crusts for a clean look. Spread a generous layer of the shrimp mixture on half of each bread slice, making sure to cover the surface evenly. Place another slice of bread on top, pressing gently to secure them together. Repeat this process until all the bread and shrimp mixture are used, creating a lovely stack ready for air frying.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Before cooking, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. While it heats, lightly coat both sides of the assembled shrimp toast with cooking spray to promote an even, golden-brown crispiness. This step is essential for achieving that delightful crunch while ensuring the shrimp toast doesn’t stick to the air fryer basket.

Step 4: Air Fry the Toast
Carefully place the shrimp toast in the air fryer basket in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd. Air fry the toast for 10 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time to ensure they cook evenly and achieve a perfect golden brown on both sides. As they cook, the aroma will fill your kitchen, hinting at the delicious Crispy Shrimp Toast to come.

Step 5: Make the Dipping Sauce
While the shrimp toast is air frying, prepare the dipping sauce by mixing Kewpie mayo and Sriracha in a small bowl. Stir until well combined, adjusting the amount of Sriracha to suit your spice preference. This creamy and spicy sauce will complement the flavors of the shrimp toast perfectly and enhance your dining experience.

Step 6: Serve
Once the cooking time is up, allow the Crispy Shrimp Toast to cool for about one minute before serving. This brief cooling period helps prevent burns while enhancing the flavors. Serve them immediately with the dipping sauce on the side for a delicious snack or appetizer that is sure to impress!

Make Ahead Options

These Air Fryer Crispy Shrimp Toast are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during meal prep! You can prepare the shrimp mixture and assemble the toast, refrigerating them for up to 24 hours before cooking. To maintain quality, store the assembled toast in an airtight container, ensuring they are well coated with cooking spray to avoid sticking. When you’re ready to serve, simply preheat your air fryer and cook the shrimp toast as directed, flipping halfway through for that perfect crisp. This way, you’ll enjoy savory, restaurant-quality shrimp toast with minimal effort, making meal planning as easy as pie!

Crispy Shrimp Toast Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to personalize your crispy shrimp toast with these fun twists and substitutes that will elevate your dish!

Dairy-Free: Substitute Kewpie mayo with a plant-based mayonnaise for a creamy yet dairy-free option. Your guests will never guess it’s a healthier version!
Whole Wheat: Use whole wheat or sourdough bread for added fiber and a heartier texture. It’ll make your toast even more nutritious without sacrificing flavor.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or dill into the shrimp mixture for an aromatic twist. A burst of fresh herbs can elevate the entire dish, making it more vibrant.
Veggie Boost: Mix in finely chopped bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition and crunch. This not only enhances the texture but also adds a pop of color for an eye-catching presentation!
Spicy Upgrade: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of your favorite hot sauce to the shrimp mixture for an extra kick. Adjust the spice level to your taste—spice lovers will adore this enhancement!
Baked Version: If you prefer a baked option, cook your shrimp toast in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method gives a slightly different flavor and texture.
Gluten-Free: Substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or ground oats for a gluten-free version. No one will miss the gluten with all the flavor packed into that crispy shrimp filling!

And if you’re looking for more shrimp recipes, don’t miss checking out my Crispy Air Fryer Fried Shrimp and Grilled Shrimp Bowl for even more delicious ideas!

Expert Tips for Crispy Shrimp Toast

Chop Shrimp Finely: A well-chopped shrimp mixture ensures a smooth texture, enhancing the overall eating experience of your crispy shrimp toast.
Don’t Overcrowd: Place the shrimp toast in a single layer in the air fryer to allow for proper air circulation, resulting in perfectly crispy toast rather than soggy bites.
Prep Ahead: You can refrigerate assembled but uncooked shrimp toast for up to 24 hours. This makes it easy to air fry when you’re ready to serve.
Monitor Cooking Time: Every air fryer varies slightly. Keep an eye on the shrimp toast during the last few minutes to avoid overcooking and preserve that delightful crunch.
Leftover Reheating: For leftover crispy shrimp toast, reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for best results; you’ll regain that crispy texture!

How to Store and Freeze Crispy Shrimp Toast

Fridge: Store any leftover crispy shrimp toast in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring they remain fresh and retain flavor.

Freezer: To freeze uncooked shrimp toast, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 1 month.

Reheating: For the best results, reheat leftover crispy shrimp toast in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, restoring that delightful crispiness.

Prep Ahead: Assemble the shrimp toast and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before air frying—perfect for quick entertaining when you’re short on time.

What to Serve with Air Fryer Crispy Shrimp Toast

Elevate your dining experience with delicious sides that perfectly complement this delightful crispy snack.

Refreshing Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad adds a crisp contrast, balancing the rich flavors of the shrimp toast. Toss together sliced cucumbers with rice vinegar, sesame oil, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a zesty side.
Steamed Edamame: These tender pods are a source of protein that pairs beautifully, offering a fresh taste without overshadowing the toast’s flavors. Lightly sprinkle with sea salt for the perfect finishing touch.
Garlic Roasted Broccoli: Tender, flavorful broccoli with a hint of garlic provides a nutritious balance to your meal. The crunchy, slightly charred edges add a satisfying texture to enjoy alongside your shrimp toast.
Thai Sweet Chili Sauce: For those loving an extra kick, serve your shrimp toast with this sauce. Its sweet and spicy notes enhance the overall flavor experience, bringing a delicious twist every time you dip!
Chilled Soba Noodles: Cold soba noodles tossed in a ginger-soy dressing can serve as a delightful, chewy base that complements the crispy texture of the shrimp toast, creating a satisfying meal.
Hibiscus Iced Tea: A refreshing drink like hibiscus iced tea will quench your thirst and provide a bright, floral note that contrasts nicely with the savory shrimp toast. Sweeten lightly to balance the flavors and enjoy!

Air Fryer Crispy Shrimp Toast Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right shrimp?
Absolutely! When selecting shrimp, look for a firm, translucent appearance, and avoid any that have dark spots all over, which are signs of deterioration. Fresh shrimp should have a mild, briny scent, while frozen shrimp should be well-packaged and without freezer burn. If you’re using frozen shrimp, make sure to fully thaw them in the fridge before cooking.

What is the best way to store leftover crispy shrimp toast?
Very! Store any leftover crispy shrimp toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they are cooled completely before sealing, as trapping steam can make them soggy. When you’re ready to eat, you can reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to regain that crispy texture.

Can I freeze uncooked shrimp toast? If so, how?
Definitely! To freeze uncooked shrimp toast, first arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, ensuring they don’t touch one another. Freeze them for about 1 hour or until solid. Once they are frozen, transfer the toast to a freezer bag, label it with the date, and store it for up to 1 month. When ready to cook, simply place them in the air fryer straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time!

What if my shrimp mixture is too runny?
Oh no, but don’t worry! If your shrimp mixture is too runny, you can add a little more cornstarch or breadcrumbs to help bind it together. Start with a tablespoon at a time, mixing until you achieve a thicker, paste-like consistency. This will enhance the texture of your shrimp toast and help it hold its shape while cooking.

Are there any dietary considerations for making shrimp toast?
Absolutely! If you’re accommodating allergies or dietary preferences, remember that shrimp is a common allergen. For a gluten-free option, swap out the breadcrumbs for almond flour. And for a dairy-free alternative, use a plant-based mayo in your dipping sauce. Always check ingredient labels to ensure they align with your dietary needs.