There’s something undeniably comforting about the sound of crunchy bites hitting a plate, especially when they’re filled with a treasure like shrimp. Picture this: the golden crust of Portuguese Shrimp Croquettes giving way to a creamy, seafood-filled center, blending savory shrimp, fresh herbs, and the warm embrace of mashed potatoes. This dish transports me straight to the sun-kissed shores of Portugal, where seafood is a beloved staple.
I first encountered these delightful croquettes during a casual gathering at a friend’s home, where the aroma wafting from the kitchen made my heart race. I knew I had to recreate this culinary gem for my family—and little did I know, this appetizer would soon become a popular staple at our get-togethers.
With endless possibilities for customization, these croquettes suit any palate and occasion, making them perfect for parties or just to satisfy a midweek snack craving. Join me as I guide you through the process of making these mouthwatering bites that promise to impress and delight.
Why are Portuguese Shrimp Croquettes a Must-Try?
Crunchy Perfection: With their golden-brown exterior, these croquettes provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy shrimp filling.
Tailor to Taste: Customize your croquettes with various fillings or spices, allowing everyone to enjoy their perfect bite.
Ideal for Any Occasion: Perfect as a party appetizer or a cozy family snack, they make any gathering special.
Quick to Make: In just a few simple steps, these croquettes can go from ingredients to table in no time, saving you precious minutes in the kitchen.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Watch as friends and family rave over these delightful bites, making your culinary skills shine!
Portuguese Shrimp Croquettes Ingredients
For the Filling
- Shrimp – Provides rich seafood flavor and protein; use fresh shrimp for the best taste or substitute with cooked crab for variety.
- Mashed Potatoes – Adds creaminess and helps bind the filling; leftover mashed potatoes work great or use instant in a pinch.
- Garlic – Introduces aromatic depth; fresh garlic is preferred, but garlic powder can serve as an alternative in small amounts.
- Fresh Herbs (Parsley, Cilantro) – Enhances flavor and freshness; dried herbs can substitute, but use less as they are more concentrated.
For the Coating
- Breadcrumbs – Gives the croquettes a crispy exterior; Panko breadcrumbs are ideal for extra crunch, while regular breadcrumbs can also be used.
- Egg – Acts as a binder; for a vegan option, consider a flax egg or applesauce (note texture may vary).
For Seasoning
- Salt & Pepper – Seasoning to enhance overall flavors; always adjust to taste, especially in these Portuguese Shrimp Croquettes.
How to Make Portuguese Shrimp Croquettes
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Sauté Shrimp: In a skillet, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add chopped shrimp and minced garlic, cooking until the shrimp turns pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes. This adds that essential seafood flavor!
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Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked shrimp, creamy mashed potatoes, and freshly chopped herbs. Stir until everything is well integrated; the mixture should be slightly sticky but hold together well.
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Shape Croquettes: With clean hands, scoop the filling into equal portions and form small balls or patties, about 1½ inches in diameter. This step allows you to create an even bite-sized treat that’s easy to fry.
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Coat Croquettes: Set up a dipping station with beaten egg and a plate of breadcrumbs. Dip each shaped croquette first into the egg, ensuring it’s fully coated, then roll in breadcrumbs for a crispy exterior.
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Fry Croquettes: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully place the croquettes in the hot oil, frying until golden brown on each side, approximately 3-4 minutes. This is where the magic happens—watch for that crunchy, golden color!
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Drain: Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to transfer the croquettes to a plate lined with paper towels, allowing them to drain any excess oil. This ensures they stay crispy and delicious.
Optional: Serve with a tangy dipping sauce or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for that extra pop of flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Portuguese Shrimp Croquettes are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy them with minimal effort on busy days! You can prepare the filling and shape the croquettes up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them covered tightly to keep their moisture. If you want to go further, feel free to freeze the uncooked croquettes for up to 3 months—just make sure they are placed in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to serve, fry them straight from the freezer, adding an extra minute or two to the cooking time for perfectly crisp results. Enjoy time-saving benefits while still bringing these delightful bites to your table just as delicious!
Portuguese Shrimp Croquettes Variations
Get ready to have fun in the kitchen—there are endless ways to make these croquettes uniquely yours!
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Crab or Lobster: Swap shrimp for tender crab or succulent lobster for an upscale twist. Just imagine the sweet flavors mingling in every bite.
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Cheesy Delight: Add crumbled feta or shredded cheddar to the filling for a creamy richness that melts beautifully within the croquettes. A warm, gooey surprise awaits!
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Loaded Veggies: Incorporate sautéed spinach or finely chopped bell peppers to add nutrition and a pop of color. These vibrant additions enhance the flavor and texture.
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Herb Explosion: Experiment with fresh dill or chives in the filling to give your croquettes a fresh, fragrant kick. Each bite becomes a delightful herbaceous experience.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in crushed red pepper or a dash of cayenne for a fiery surprise that your friends and family won’t forget. Perfect for those who love a smoldering spice!
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Crispy Coating: Try using crushed tortilla chips or seasoned panko for a different crunchy texture. This change brings an exciting twist to the classic croquette experience.
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Curry Flavor: Add a teaspoon of curry powder or garam masala to the potato filling for an exotic taste that transports your taste buds on a delicious journey.
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Zesty Citrus: Mix in a bit of lemon or lime zest into the filling to brighten up the flavors and give your croquettes a refreshing zing. It’s like a sunshine burst in every bite!
Expert Tips for Perfecting Portuguese Shrimp Croquettes
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Fresh Shrimp: Always use fresh shrimp for the best flavor. Frozen shrimp can work, but make sure they’re thoroughly thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture.
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Uniform Shapes: To ensure even cooking, shape the croquettes using a cookie scoop. This helps achieve the perfect bite-sized treat every time.
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Temperature Check: Use a thermometer to maintain oil temperature around 350°F. If it’s too low, your croquettes may absorb excess oil and become greasy.
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Don’t Overcrowd: Fry in batches to keep the oil hot; overcrowding the pan can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy Portuguese Shrimp Croquettes.
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Add Spice: Feel free to incorporate spices such as smoked paprika or crushed red pepper in the filling. This can elevate the flavor profile, catering to those who love a spicy kick!
What to Serve with Portuguese Shrimp Croquettes?
These delicious bites offer a taste of coastal Portugal, and pairing them with the right sides can turn your meal into a culinary celebration.
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Fresh Green Salad: A light salad with citrus vinaigrette offers a zesty contrast, balancing the rich flavors of the croquettes. The crunch of fresh greens is the perfect complement to the crispy croquettes.
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Garlic Aioli: This creamy dipping sauce adds a touch of elegance and enhances the shrimp’s flavor. With its garlicky punch, aioli makes every bite a gourmet experience.
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Zesty Coleslaw: The crispness of coleslaw mixed with tangy dressing brightens up the dish, adding texture and a refreshing crunch. The vibrant colors make your plate visually appealing.
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Spicy Tomato Salsa: A vibrant salsa with a kick pairs well, cutting through the richness of the croquettes while delivering a burst of flavor. Serve it alongside for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
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Savory Potato Wedges: Crispy, seasoned potato wedges are a crowd-pleaser, adding a hearty component to your meal that complements the shrimp-filled croquettes.
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Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Vinho Verde brings a refreshing touch to your dining experience, enhancing the seafood notes and ensuring a perfect pairing.
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Lemon-Dill Quinoa: This light and fluffy side dish adds a nutty flavor with a bright twist, providing a nutritious, subtle companion that won’t overpower the croquettes.
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Grilled Vegetables: A medley of grilled veggies like zucchini and bell peppers brings a smoky depth to your plate while adding a colorful, healthy component that enriches the meal.
How to Store and Freeze Portuguese Shrimp Croquettes
Fridge: Store leftover croquettes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes to regain that crispy texture.
Freezer: Freeze uncooked shaped croquettes on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. They can last for up to 2 months and can be fried directly from the freezer without thawing.
Reheating: For best results, reheat fried croquettes in an oven to keep them crispy. Preheat to 375°F and warm for about 8-10 minutes.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the croquette filling ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before shaping and frying, making for an easier cooking experience!
Portuguese Shrimp Croquettes Recipe FAQs
What kind of shrimp should I use for the croquettes?
Absolutely! Fresh shrimp is preferred for the best flavor. However, if you’re in a pinch, you can use frozen shrimp—just ensure they’re completely thawed and drained well to avoid excess moisture that can affect the filling’s texture.
How do I store leftover croquettes?
Leftover croquettes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes to bring back that delightful crunch.
Can I freeze uncooked croquettes?
Very much so! Simply shape the croquettes, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Afterward, transfer them to a freezer bag, where they can be stored for up to 2 months. To cook, you can fry them directly from the freezer—just add a couple of extra minutes to your frying time until they are golden brown!
What happens if my croquette mixture is too wet?
If your mixture feels too wet, no worries! You can add a bit more mashed potatoes to help bind it together. Alternatively, a spoonful of breadcrumbs can also absorb excess moisture. Just be sure to mix well until the texture holds together nicely for shaping!
Are these shrimp croquettes safe for those with shellfish allergies?
Definitely not! Since shrimp is a primary ingredient, it’s important to avoid this recipe if someone has a shellfish allergy. You could consider a variation using another protein source, like finely chopped chicken or a vegetable filling, ensuring that it caters safely to everyone at your table.
Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the shrimp filling a day in advance. Simply store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, shape and fry the croquettes straight away, giving you an easy and efficient cooking experience!
Delicious Portuguese Shrimp Croquettes with Customizable Twists
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Sauté Shrimp: In a skillet, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add chopped shrimp and minced garlic, cooking until the shrimp turns pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.
- Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked shrimp, creamy mashed potatoes, and freshly chopped herbs.
- Shape Croquettes: With clean hands, scoop the filling into equal portions and form small balls or patties, about 1½ inches in diameter.
- Coat Croquettes: Set up a dipping station with beaten egg and a plate of breadcrumbs. Dip each shaped croquette first into the egg, then roll in breadcrumbs.
- Fry Croquettes: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully place the croquettes in the hot oil, frying until golden brown on each side, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Drain: Use a slotted spoon to transfer the croquettes to a plate lined with paper towels.