Name: Crispy Portuguese Shrimp Croquettes for Seafood Lovers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Fresh or cooked shrimp; 1 cup Mashed potatoes (Leftover preferred); 2-3 cloves Garlic (Minced); to taste Fresh herbs (e.g., parsley, cilantro); to taste Spices (e.g., paprika, black pepper) (Adjust to preference); 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs (Gluten-free options available); 1 large Egg (Can substitute with a flax egg for vegan)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As I pulled the golden-brown croquettes from the skillet, the aroma of garlic and fresh herbs filled my kitchen, transporting me straight to the coastal streets of Portugal. These Portuguese Shrimp Croquettes, with their crispy breadcrumbs encasing a rich and creamy filling, are simply irresistible. Not only are they a delightful way to impress guests with minimal effort, but they’re also a fantastic way to use up leftover mashed potatoes. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch followed by an explosion of savory shrimp flavors that are delightful as starters or casual snacks. Ready to discover how to whip up these delectable bites for your next gathering?

Why Are These Croquettes So Irresistible?

Unforgettable flavor: A perfect blend of shrimp, garlic, and fresh herbs creates an explosion of taste that’ll have everyone reaching for more.

Versatile delights: These croquettes are not just appetizers; they can easily transition into a main dish when paired with a salad or dipping sauce, just like my favorite Garlic Butter Shrimp.

Easy to make: With straightforward steps, even novice cooks can whip these up without stress.

Perfect for gatherings: Their crowd-pleasing crunch and savory center make them an instant hit at parties or family dinners.

Sustainable cooking: Not only are these croquettes delicious, but they also help reduce food waste by using leftover mashed potatoes, giving them an eco-friendly twist.

Get ready to impress with these tasty bites that capture the essence of Portuguese cuisine!

Portuguese Shrimp Croquettes Ingredients

For the Filling
Shrimp – Fresh or cooked shrimp are both great choices, providing a delicious source of flavor and protein.
Mashed Potatoes – Leftover mashed potatoes work perfectly to create a creamy texture that binds the filling together.
Garlic – Enhances the aromatic profile; adjust the amount based on your love for garlic.
Herbs (e.g., parsley, cilantro) – Fresh herbs are recommended to elevate the flavor and freshness of the croquettes.
Spices (e.g., paprika, black pepper) – Customize the seasoning to suit your taste; a pinch of paprika adds a lovely hue and flavor kick.
For the Coating
Breadcrumbs – Opt for panko breadcrumbs for an extra crunchy coating; gluten-free options are available too.
Egg – This acts as a binder for the croquettes; you can also use a flax egg for a vegan substitute.

These ingredients come together beautifully to create delightful Portuguese Shrimp Croquettes that are sure to impress your family and friends!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Portuguese Shrimp Croquettes

Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a skillet over medium heat, sauté 2-3 minced cloves of garlic in a tablespoon of olive oil until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Add in 1 pound of finely chopped shrimp, your choice of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, and season with paprika, black pepper, and salt. Stir in 1 cup of mashed potatoes until everything is well combined and heated through, about 3-4 minutes. Let the filling cool for easier handling.

Step 2: Form the Croquettes
Once your filling has cooled for about 10-15 minutes, use your hands to shape small portions into round balls or oval patties, approximately the size of a golf ball. Place the shaped croquettes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to keep them from sticking. This step will ensure they maintain their shape while frying.

Step 3: Coat in Egg and Breadcrumbs
Prepare a bowl with one beaten egg for the coating. Dip each croquette into the egg until fully coated, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, roll each croquette in panko breadcrumbs, making sure it’s evenly covered. The panko will give your Portuguese Shrimp Croquettes an extra crunchy texture when fried.

Step 4: Fry the Croquettes
In a deep skillet, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering, around 350°F. Carefully add the croquettes in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them, draining the excess oil on paper towels.

Step 5: Drain and Serve
After frying, let the Portuguese Shrimp Croquettes sit on paper towels for a minute to absorb any extra oil. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce, like aioli or tartar sauce. These crispy bites are perfect for appetizers or casual snacking, bringing a taste of Portugal right to your kitchen!

Make Ahead Options

These Portuguese Shrimp Croquettes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling—combining sautéed garlic, shrimp, herbs, spices, and mashed potatoes—up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate your filling in an airtight container until you’re ready to continue. When ready to cook, shape the filling into croquettes and coat them in breadcrumbs as instructed. For those who prefer even easier options, you can fully assemble the croquettes and freeze them for up to 3 months; just fry them from frozen, allowing an extra minute or two for cooking. This way, you can enjoy delicious appetizers crafted in advance, saving time and hassle on busy weeknights!

Expert Tips for Portuguese Shrimp Croquettes

Oil Temperature: Keep the oil hot, around 350°F, to ensure a crispy croquette. If the oil is too cool, the croquettes will absorb more oil and become soggy.
Don’t Overcrowd: Fry in batches without crowding the pan. Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature, leading to uneven cooking and less crispy croquettes.
Cool Filling: Let the filling cool before shaping the croquettes. This makes it easier to handle and form them without falling apart.
Breadcrumb Coating: Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch. This texture elevates your Portuguese Shrimp Croquettes and keeps them crispy longer.
Spice to Taste: Customize your shrimp filling with spices according to preference. A little cayenne or chili powder can kick up the heat!

What to Serve with Portuguese Shrimp Croquettes

The delightful crunch of these golden bites pairs wonderfully with a variety of flavors and textures, creating a memorable meal experience.

Creamy Aioli: A rich and garlicky dip that complements the savory shrimp filling perfectly, adding another layer of flavor excitement.
Fresh Garden Salad: Crisp greens and vibrant vegetables create a refreshing contrast to the rich and crunchy croquettes, making each bite more delightful.
Tangy Tartar Sauce: This zesty sauce enhances the seafood flavor, providing a perfect balance to the crispy exterior.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted to caramelized perfection add a sweet touch and satisfying texture, rounding out the meal beautifully.
Wine Pairing: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc accentuates the seafood flavors while keeping the palate refreshed, making it a perfect drink option.
Homemade Coleslaw: The crunchiness of the slaw with a tangy dressing provides an exciting texture contrast and a refreshing taste alongside the croquettes.
Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness offers a fantastic balance to the savory profile of the shrimp croquettes, adding fun and flavor to your plate.
Zesty Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon brightens up every bite, enhancing the shrimp’s natural sweetness and adding a burst of freshness.

Portuguese Shrimp Croquettes Variations

Feel free to add your personal touch to these delightful croquettes and make them truly your own.

Cheese Addition: Mix in some cream cheese or shredded cheddar for a gooey, rich filling. The melty texture will make each bite a heavenly experience.
Vegetable Swap: Substitute shrimp with finely chopped spinach, mushrooms, or any favorite vegetables for a veggie-packed twist. This adds flavor and a healthy boost to your croquettes.
Spice Level: Introduce diced jalapeños or sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes to heat things up. Just a hint of extra heat can elevate the dish to a new level of excitement.
Herb Varieties: Experiment with different herbs, such as dill or basil, for unique flavor profiles. Each herb brings its own distinct character, making your croquettes a delightful surprise.
Baked Version: For a healthier alternative, bake the croquettes at 375°F for about 20-25 minutes until golden. They may not be as crispy as fried, but they’ll hold their own with a delightful crunch.
Seafood Combo: Explore the seas by adding crab meat or chopped scallops alongside shrimp. This seafood medley will delight any seafood lover and bring an extra layer of richness.
Smoked Flavor: Use smoked paprika or add a touch of liquid smoke to invoke summery barbecue vibes in your croquettes. This smoky twist can create a wonderful depth of flavor.
Sweet Potato Variation: Swap regular mashed potatoes for sweet potatoes to introduce a subtle sweetness. This creative twist not only enhances flavor but adds beautiful color to your croquettes.

Dive into the world of crispy Portuguese Shrimp Croquettes and let your creativity flourish, possibly accompanied by some tempting Garlic Butter Shrimp. Enjoy customizing these bites to make them a true reflection of your culinary spirit!

How to Store and Freeze Portuguese Shrimp Croquettes

Room Temperature: Enjoy these croquettes fresh; they’re best consumed right after frying. If left out, consume within 2 hours to ensure freshness and safety.
Fridge: Store leftover croquettes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for about 10-15 minutes at 350°F to restore crispiness.
Freezer: Freeze croquettes before frying by placing them on a baking sheet to flash freeze for 1-2 hours. Transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, bake frozen croquettes straight from the freezer at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through and crispy.

Portuguese Shrimp Croquettes Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing shrimp, look for fresh options that are firm to the touch, with a slight ocean scent. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they’re thawed completely and have a translucent appearance. I often prefer wild-caught shrimp for their superior flavor, but farmed shrimp can also work well.

How long can I store my leftover Portuguese Shrimp Croquettes?
You can store your leftover croquettes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain their crunchiness, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes. This way, they’ll taste just as delightful as when you first made them!

Can I freeze these croquettes for later use?
Absolutely! To freeze, shape the croquettes as instructed, then lay them out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Flash freeze for 1-2 hours until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, bake directly from the freezer at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes until they’re heated through and crispy.

What should I do if my croquettes are falling apart during frying?
Very! If your croquettes are disintegrating in the oil, it could be because the filling was not cooled enough before shaping. To fix this, cool your filling for at least 10-15 minutes to help it hold together better. Also, ensure you’re adequately coating them with breadcrumbs, as this adds support during frying. If they continue to break apart, you can try adding a bit more mashed potatoes as a binder.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Definitely! If you need to adjust for allergies or dietary restrictions, you can substitute the egg with a flax egg for a vegan alternative. Additionally, using gluten-free breadcrumbs will make these croquettes safe for those with gluten intolerance. Always check that your shrimp source is free from cross-contamination if you have seafood allergies.

Can I bake the Portuguese Shrimp Croquettes instead of frying them?
Yes! To make a healthier version, you can bake the croquettes. Preheat your oven to 400°F and place the coated croquettes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spray them lightly with cooking oil to encourage crispiness and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through. You’ll still achieve a tasty crunch without the frying!