Shrimp Cakes with Lemon Aioli

Shrimp Cakes with Lemon Aioli are crispy, golden seafood patties made with tender shrimp, fresh herbs, and zesty seasonings, served with a bright and tangy lemon aioli that enhances every bite. Perfect as an appetizer, lunch, or light dinner, these cakes are a refreshing alternative to traditional crab cakes and deliver bold flavor in a satisfying, crunchy form.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These shrimp cakes are easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and wonderfully versatile. They come together quickly with simple ingredients and are a great way to enjoy shrimp in a new way. The lemon aioli adds a cool, citrusy contrast to the warm, savory cakes, making them irresistible. Great for parties or weeknight dinners, they’re also easy to make ahead or freeze.

ingredients

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

• Raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Panko breadcrumbs
• Egg
• Mayonnaise
• Dijon mustard
• Green onions, chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon zest
• Salt and pepper
• Olive oil (for frying)

For the Lemon Aioli:

• Mayonnaise
• Garlic, minced or grated
• Fresh lemon juice
• Lemon zest
• Salt
• Optional: a dash of hot sauce

directions

1. Finely chop or pulse shrimp in a food processor until coarsely minced (not pureed).
2. In a large bowl, mix the shrimp with panko, egg, mayonnaise, Dijon, green onions, garlic, parsley, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
3. Form the mixture into small patties and refrigerate for 15–30 minutes to help them hold their shape.
4. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook shrimp cakes in batches for 3–4 minutes per side or until golden and cooked through.
5. While the cakes cook, make the lemon aioli by mixing mayonnaise, garlic, lemon juice, zest, salt, and optional hot sauce until smooth.
6. Serve shrimp cakes warm with lemon aioli on the side or drizzled over top.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 8 small cakes (serves 4).
Prep time: 20 minutes
Chill time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Shrimp Cakes: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for heat.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs in place of panko.
• Cajun-Style: Add a teaspoon of Cajun seasoning to the mix for a Southern twist.
• Shrimp & Corn Cakes: Add corn kernels for sweetness and texture.
• Baked Option: Bake at 400°F for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through, for a lighter version.

storage/reheating

Store leftover shrimp cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 10 minutes.
The lemon aioli can be stored separately in the fridge for up to 5 days. Stir before serving.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just be sure to thaw and pat dry completely before chopping.

What kind of shrimp is best for shrimp cakes?

Medium to large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined, work best.

Can I make the shrimp cakes ahead of time?

Yes, you can shape the cakes and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking.

How do I keep the cakes from falling apart?

Chilling the formed cakes before cooking helps them stay together. Make sure the mixture is well combined.

Can I bake instead of fry the shrimp cakes?

Absolutely. Bake at 400°F for 15–18 minutes, flipping once, until golden and cooked through.

What can I serve with shrimp cakes?

A green salad, roasted vegetables, or coleslaw pair nicely. They’re also great in sliders or wraps.

Is the lemon aioli spicy?

Not unless you add hot sauce. It’s mostly citrusy and creamy with a mild garlic kick.

Can I freeze shrimp cakes?

Yes, freeze them cooked or uncooked. Thaw in the fridge and reheat or cook as needed.

Can I use a food processor to chop the shrimp?

Yes, but pulse briefly—you want small pieces, not a paste.

Can I substitute shrimp with another seafood?

Yes, chopped scallops or a combination of seafood can be used in place of shrimp.

Conclusion

Shrimp Cakes with Lemon Aioli are a delicious, elegant dish that’s easy to prepare and bursting with fresh flavor. With a crisp exterior, tender interior, and tangy sauce, they’re sure to become a favorite in your seafood rotation. Whether served as an appetizer, light entrée, or party bite, these shrimp cakes bring coastal flair to any table.

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