Baked Shrimp Toast

Baked Shrimp Toast is a delicious appetizer featuring crispy bread topped with a creamy, garlicky shrimp mixture and baked to golden perfection. This easy-to-make dish combines the flavors of juicy shrimp, melty cheese, and a hint of garlic, making it perfect for parties, game days, or a flavorful snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make with simple ingredients
• Great as an appetizer, snack, or light meal
• Combines crispy bread with a creamy, savory shrimp topping
• Perfect for entertaining or as a party finger food
• Can be made ahead and baked when ready to serve

Ingredients

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

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
• 1 French baguette or Italian bread, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 green onions, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon butter, melted

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Shrimp Mixture:
   • In a large bowl, combine chopped shrimp, cream cheese, mayonnaise, mozzarella, Parmesan, minced garlic, green onions, lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Prepare the Bread:
   • Arrange the bread slices on the prepared baking sheet. Brush each slice with melted butter.
4. Assemble the Toasts:
   • Spread a generous amount of the shrimp mixture onto each bread slice, spreading it evenly to cover the top.
5. Bake:
   • Bake for 10-12 minutes until the shrimp are fully cooked and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
   • Optionally, broil for 1-2 minutes to get the tops extra golden and crispy.
6. Serve:
   • Garnish with more fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm as an appetizer or snack.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8-10
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 27 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Shrimp Toast: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the shrimp mixture for a kick.
• Cheesy Garlic Shrimp Toast: Mix in extra shredded cheese like cheddar or provolone for a super cheesy version.
• Asian-Inspired Shrimp Toast: Add a tablespoon of soy sauce and a teaspoon of grated ginger for an Asian twist.
• Creamy Spinach and Shrimp Toast: Mix in a handful of chopped spinach for added greens.
• Cajun Shrimp Toast: Use Cajun seasoning instead of Italian herbs for a Southern-inspired flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: Freeze uncooked shrimp toast in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag and freeze for up to 1 month.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until heated through and crispy.

FAQs

1. Can I use cooked shrimp instead of raw shrimp?

Yes, if using cooked shrimp, chop them finely and mix them directly into the topping. Reduce the baking time slightly to avoid overcooking.

2. Can I use a different type of bread?

Yes, French baguette, Italian bread, or even sandwich bread cut into smaller pieces will work well.

3. How do I make sure the shrimp are fully cooked?

Bake until the shrimp turn pink and the cheese is melted and bubbly. You can also broil for a minute or two for extra crispiness.

4. Can I make shrimp toast ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the shrimp mixture and assemble the toasts. Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 8 hours before baking.

5. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, thaw frozen shrimp completely, pat them dry, and chop them before adding to the mixture.

6. What dipping sauces go well with shrimp toast?

Serve with a lemon aioli, cocktail sauce, or a drizzle of sweet chili sauce for added flavor.

7. Can I add vegetables to the shrimp mixture?

Yes, finely diced bell peppers, spinach, or green onions add color and flavor.

8. Can I use light or reduced-fat ingredients?

Yes, light cream cheese and mayonnaise can be used to make the dish a bit lighter.

9. How do I keep the bread from getting soggy?

Toast the bread lightly before adding the shrimp mixture for a crunchier base.

10. What can I serve with shrimp toast?

Serve as part of an appetizer platter with fresh veggies, a side salad, or as a starter for a seafood meal.

Conclusion

Baked Shrimp Toast is a simple yet impressive appetizer that delivers a delicious mix of creamy, cheesy, and garlicky flavors on a crispy bread base. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a savory snack, or adding a twist to your dinner menu, this shrimp toast recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Print