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These creamy shrimp cheese rolls are your perfect go-to crispy seafood snack filled with melty goodness and a satisfying crunch. Perfect for entertaining or a flavorful treat anytime, they combine tender shrimp and rich cheeses wrapped in a golden crispy shell that never disappoints.
I made these for a casual weekend gathering, and they disappeared faster than I could say “more please.” Everyone loved how the crispy exterior complemented the creamy shrimp inside.
Ingredients
- Large shrimp: peeled and deveined for easy eating and fresh seafood flavor
- Cream cheese: softened to create a luscious base that holds everything together
- Shredded mozzarella: adds gooey meltiness and mild savory notes
- Fresh parsley: chopped to bring brightness and a mild herbaceous touch
- Garlic powder: for subtle warmth and depth that ties the flavors together
- Salt and pepper: to enhance and balance all the tastes
- Egg roll wrappers or spring roll sheets: that crisp up perfectly when fried
- One egg: to seal the rolls so nothing escapes during frying
- All-purpose flour: for the first dredge to help the coating stick
- Panko breadcrumbs: for unbeatable crunch and golden color
- Vegetable oil: for frying giving the rolls a light, crispy texture without absorbing too much oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Shrimp:
- Sauté shrimp lightly in a pan over medium heat with salt, pepper, and garlic powder until they turn pink and are just cooked through about 2 to 3 minutes. This quick cooking keeps them juicy and creates a flavorful base for the filling. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Mix the Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with shredded mozzarella, chopped parsley, and the cooked shrimp. Chop the shrimp if you prefer smaller pieces or keep them whole for more bite. This creamy blend is the core of your snack delivering seafood richness and gooey cheese.
- Wrap It Tight:
- Lay out your egg roll wrappers and spoon a generous amount of filling onto the center of each. Roll them up tightly folding in the sides as you go to create neat sealed rolls. Use the beaten egg as a glue to seal the edges firmly. Proper sealing helps prevent any filling from bursting out during frying.
- Coat and Fry:
- First dredge each roll lightly in flour which helps the egg adhere. Dip in beaten egg then coat thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs for a crunchy crust. Heat vegetable oil to around 350 degrees Fahrenheit and fry the rolls in batches for 3 to 4 minutes until they turn golden brown and crisp. Drain on paper towels.
- Serve Hot with Sauce:
- Transfer the crispy golden rolls to a platter and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce such as garlic aioli, spicy mayo, or ranch. The hot melty interior paired with the crunchy exterior and dipping sauce will make these irresistible.
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Shrimp is my favorite addition for this recipe because it brings the perfect seafood sweetness without overpowering the cheese. One family night we made these together and seeing everyone’s delight enjoying the crispy rolls was unforgettable.
Storage Tips
Store leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat in a hot oven or air fryer to restore crispiness without making them soggy. Avoid microwaving as it softens the crunchy coating.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap mozzarella for provolone or Monterey Jack for a different melting character. For the cheese base, cream cheese can be replaced with mascarpone for extra creaminess. Use wonton wrappers if egg roll wrappers are unavailable but expect a thinner crust.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these rolls with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Serving different dipping sauces offers a fun variety letting guests customize each bite.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of shrimp works best?
Large peeled and deveined shrimp provide the best texture and flavor, ensuring juicy bites inside the rolls.
- → Can I use different cheeses?
Yes, mozzarella and cream cheese create a creamy blend, but adding cheddar or Monterey Jack can add a sharper taste.
- → How do I get the rolls extra crispy?
Double coating with flour, egg wash, and panko breadcrumbs before frying helps develop a crunchy golden crust.
- → What oil is recommended for frying?
Vegetable oil or any neutral high-heat oil is ideal to achieve even frying at 350°F without overpowering flavors.
- → Can these rolls be prepared ahead and frozen?
Yes, you can assemble and freeze them before frying. Fry straight from frozen for best results and maintain crunch.