Name: Crispy Shrimp Burgers with Tartar Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon paprika; ½ teaspoon chili powder; ¼ teaspoon dry mustard powder; 1 large egg white; ¼ cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; Oil for frying (about 1 cup, or enough to shallow fry); 4 brioche buns, toasted; 3 hard-boiled eggs, coarsely chopped; ¼ cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons finely chopped onion; 2 tablespoons finely chopped cornichons; 2 teaspoons chopped fresh dill; ½ teaspoon lemon juice; ½ teaspoon hot sauce; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; ½ cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons stone ground mustard; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups shredded green cabbage; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; ¼ teaspoon salt

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There is nothing quite as satisfying as biting into golden, perfectly crispy shrimp patties nestled inside a fluffy brioche bun, elevated by a tangy, creamy homemade tartar sauce. This Crispy Shrimp Burgers with Tartar Sauce Recipe brings together a delightful crunch, fresh seafood flavor, and a zesty sauce that will have you craving more. Whether you’re hosting a casual weekend cookout or simply want to treat yourself to something special, these shrimp burgers deliver a delicious meal that feels both indulgent and fresh.

Ingredients You'll Need

The image shows a top-down view of nine small white bowls with different ingredients placed on a white marbled surface. At the top right is a bowl filled with raw shrimp, which are grey and slightly translucent. To its left, a bowl holds a pale yellow liquid, likely oil. Below these are seven small bowls arranged loosely: one contains fine yellow powder, another has bright red powder, and a third has a mix of white salt and black pepper. Another bowl has a heap of light beige panko breadcrumbs, and next to it is a bowl with white flour. The remaining two bowls hold small amounts of different spices, one brownish-red and the other pale yellow. The bowls vary slightly in shape and design but are mostly round with white tones. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this recipe lies in its straightforward yet thoughtfully balanced ingredients. Each component plays a vital role—from the spices that infuse the shrimp patties with flavor to the crunchy panko coating and the bright, herby tartar sauce that ties everything together. Here’s what you’ll gather to make this dish shine.

Shrimp (1 pound, peeled and deveined): The star protein, fresh or thawed for the best texture and sweetness.
Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Adds a warm, subtle depth to the shrimp mixture.
Salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for seasoning and enhancing natural flavors.
Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Provides gentle heat and complexity.
Paprika (½ teaspoon): Brings color and a mild smoky note.
Chili powder (½ teaspoon): Adds a slight kick to keep it exciting.
Dry mustard powder (¼ teaspoon): Offers a tangy undertone that brightens the shrimp.
Egg white (1 large): Helps bind the patty ingredients without heaviness.
All-purpose flour (¼ cup): Provides structure for easy shaping and coating.
Panko breadcrumbs (1 cup): Creates that irresistible crispy crunch on the outside.
Oil for frying: Use a neutral oil like canola or vegetable for even, golden frying.
Brioche buns (4, toasted): Soft, slightly sweet buns that hold up beautifully to the shrimp patties and sauces.
Hard-boiled eggs (3, coarsely chopped): The secret to a hearty, textured tartar sauce.
Mayonnaise (¼ cup for tartar sauce + ½ cup for aioli): Adds creaminess and richness to sauces.
Finely chopped onion (2 tablespoons): Gives crunch and sharpness to the tartar sauce.
Finely chopped cornichons (2 tablespoons): Adds a tangy, pickled flavor punch.
Fresh dill (2 teaspoons, chopped): Bright herbaceous note that complements seafood perfectly.
Lemon juice (½ teaspoon for tartar + 1 tablespoon for cabbage + 1 tablespoon for aioli): Injects zesty freshness throughout the dish.
Hot sauce (½ teaspoon): Balances richness with a subtle heat.
Honey (1 tablespoon): Softens and sweetens the honey mustard aioli.
Stone ground mustard (2 tablespoons): Adds texture and punch to the aioli.
Salt and pepper to taste: Adjust seasoning layers perfectly.
Green cabbage (2 cups, shredded): Lightly dressed for crunch and freshness in your burger assembly.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Used to lightly dress the cabbage for balance.

How to Make Crispy Shrimp Burgers with Tartar Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp Patties

Start by finely chopping the shrimp to create a coarse texture — you want the shrimp to bind together but still feel fresh. In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped shrimp with garlic powder, salt, black pepper, paprika, chili powder, and dry mustard powder. Stir in the egg white and flour until the mixture holds together slightly. Form this mixture into 4 equal-sized patties, then coat each patty evenly with panko breadcrumbs. This step ensures the patties will develop a perfect crispy crust when fried.

Step 2: Fry the Shrimp Patties

Heat oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Carefully add the shrimp patties to the hot oil and fry each side for about 3–4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Drain the patties on paper towels to remove excess oil. These golden crusts seal in the juicy shrimp flavor and make every bite irresistibly crunchy.

Step 3: Make the Tartar Sauce

In a bowl, combine the coarsely chopped hard-boiled eggs, mayonnaise, finely chopped onion, cornichons, fresh dill, lemon juice, hot sauce, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to blend all ingredients. This tartar sauce is creamy, tangy, and loaded with little bursts of flavor and texture that perfectly complement the shrimp patties.

Step 4: Prepare the Honey Mustard Aioli

Mix mayonnaise, stone ground mustard, honey, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until fully combined. This honey mustard aioli adds a lovely hint of sweetness and a creamy layer that contrasts beautifully with the tartar sauce and crispy patties.

Step 5: Dress the Cabbage Slaw

Toss shredded green cabbage with olive oil, lemon juice, and salt in a bowl. This lightly dressed slaw brings crunch and a vibrant freshness that cuts through the richness of the fried shrimp and sauces.

Step 6: Assemble the Burgers

Layer each toasted brioche bun with a dollop of honey mustard aioli on the bottom bun, add a shrimp patty, top with a generous spoonful of tartar sauce, and finish with a handful of dressed cabbage. Crown with the top bun and serve immediately for the best texture and flavor experience.

How to Serve Crispy Shrimp Burgers with Tartar Sauce Recipe

Four round golden-brown crispy patties are frying in a black pan with shiny oil around them, showing a crunchy texture on each piece. The pan sits on a white marbled surface, and the patties have an even, warm color with a slightly rough outside. The shape is round but not perfectly smooth, giving a homemade feel. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh dill sprigs, lemon wedges, and thin slices of red onion make charming garnishes that brighten the presentation and offer an extra pop of flavor. They enhance the seafood theme and invite guests to customize their bites with a squeeze of lemon or a bit more herbaceous freshness.

Side Dishes

Keep the sides light and fresh to balance the richness of the shrimp burgers. Crispy sweet potato fries, a zesty green salad, or even some simple grilled vegetables make excellent companions. For an added coastal vibe, consider a cold cucumber salad dressed with vinegar and dill.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your shrimp burgers into sliders for a fun appetizer platter that’s perfect for gatherings. Alternatively, serve the shrimp patties over a bed of greens with a drizzle of tartar sauce and aioli on the side for a low-carb option. Adding colorful microgreens or edible flowers can elevate the dish visually and impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover shrimp patties in an airtight container and keep them refrigerated for up to 2 days. Store sauces separately in covered containers to maintain their flavors and textures.

Freezing

You can freeze uncooked shrimp patties by placing them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freezing until firm, then transferring to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. Avoid freezing the assembled burgers or sauces to keep the texture intact.

Reheating

Reheat shrimp patties gently in a skillet over medium heat to preserve their crispness. Avoid the microwave for reheating patties as it can make them rubbery. Warm the brioche buns separately and serve the tartar sauce chilled alongside to keep the fresh flavors vibrant.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before chopping. This prevents excess moisture that can make the patties soggy.

What can I substitute for panko breadcrumbs?

If you don’t have panko, crushed cornflakes or regular breadcrumbs can work in a pinch, but panko really provides the signature crispiness in this recipe.

Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free all-purpose flour and gluten-free panko or crushed gluten-free crackers for coating the patties to keep them crispy and safe for gluten-sensitive diets.

Can I bake the shrimp patties instead of frying?

You can bake them at 425°F (220°C) on a greased baking sheet for about 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through. They won’t be quite as crispy as fried, but still tasty and lighter.

How long can I store the tartar sauce?

Homemade tartar sauce can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Freshness is key to keeping the flavors bright and appetizing.

Final Thoughts

This Crispy Shrimp Burgers with Tartar Sauce Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, combining crispy textures, zesty sauces, and fresh, vibrant ingredients in every bite. It’s the kind of meal you’ll want to make again and again, whether for a laid-back dinner or to wow friends at your next get-together. Give it a go—you might just discover your new favorite way to enjoy shrimp!

Ingredients You'll Need