Golden on the outside, juicy on the inside, and loaded with melted cheese in every bite!
If you’re looking for a show-stopping appetizer that disappears in minutes, these Crispy Cheesy Garlic Shrimp Bombs are it. Each shrimp is infused with rich garlic butter, stuffed with gooey cheese, then coated in a crunchy breadcrumb crust and fried to golden perfection. The result? A crispy shell, tender shrimp, and an irresistible cheesy center that bursts with flavor as soon as you bite in.
Perfect for parties, family gatherings, Ramadan tables, or when you just want something indulgent and fun, this recipe is easy to make yet feels restaurant-quality.
🕒 Preparation & Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 8–10 minutes
- Total Time: About 30 minutes
🍽 Servings
Serves 4–6 people (depending on how fast they disappear!)
🛒 Ingredients
For the Shrimp
- 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled, deveined, and tails removed
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra garlic flavor)
For the Cheese Filling
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
(Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend also works)
For the Crispy Coating
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1½ cups breadcrumbs or panko
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried parsley
For Frying
- Vegetable oil or sunflower oil, for deep frying
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Marinate the Shrimp
In a medium bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, paprika, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Add the shrimp and toss well until every piece is evenly coated. Let the shrimp marinate for about 5–10 minutes to absorb all that garlicky flavor.
2️⃣ Stuff with Cheese
Using a small knife, carefully make a slit along the back of each shrimp (do not cut all the way through). Insert a small cube of cheese inside each shrimp and gently press it closed. This hidden cheese center is what makes these shrimp bombs extra special.
3️⃣ Set Up the Coating Station
Prepare three shallow bowls:
- Bowl 1: Flour
- Bowl 2: Beaten eggs
- Bowl 3: Breadcrumbs mixed with Italian seasoning
This assembly-line method keeps things clean and easy.
4️⃣ Bread the Shrimp
Roll each stuffed shrimp in flour, shaking off excess. Dip into the beaten eggs, then coat generously in the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure the coating sticks well and forms a thick, crispy layer.
5️⃣ Fry Until Perfectly Crispy
Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the shrimp bombs in small batches. Fry for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan to keep the coating crunchy.
6️⃣ Drain and Rest
Remove the shrimp and place them on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Let them rest for a minute so the cheese settles slightly before serving.
🌶 Optional Dipping Sauces
These shrimp bombs taste even better with a dipping sauce:
- Garlic aioli
- Spicy mayo
- Sweet chili sauce
- Marinara sauce
💡 Tips & Variations
- Air Fryer: Cook at 190°C (375°F) for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Baked Option: Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 12–15 minutes, turning once.
- Extra Cheesy: Use a mix of mozzarella and cream cheese for an ultra-melty center.
- Spicy Version: Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture.
🍤 Serving Suggestion
Serve hot with a squeeze of fresh lemon and a sprinkle of chopped parsley. These crispy shrimp bombs are perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a fun main dish with a fresh salad on the side.