If you are searching for a dish that bursts with flavor and is incredibly satisfying, you have to try this Shrimp Balls in Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe. Tender, perfectly seasoned shrimp balls are pan-fried to a golden crisp and then bathed in a luscious garlic butter sauce that elevates every bite. This appetizer feels indulgent yet simple, making it ideal for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy meal at home. You’ll love how the bright lemon juice balances the rich butter and how fresh parsley adds that final pop of color and herbaceous aroma. Trust me, this recipe will quickly become a household favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Shrimp Balls in Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each thoughtfully chosen to create a harmonious blend of taste, texture, and aroma. From fresh shrimp to the richness of Parmesan and butter, these essentials come together for a dish that’s both elegant and easy to make.
- 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined, finely chopped: Using fresh shrimp ensures tender, flavorful balls with the perfect texture.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic infuses the shrimp mixture with a lovely pungency that complements the seafood beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped: Adds a fresh herbaceous note and vibrant green color to the mixture.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural flavor of the shrimp without overpowering it.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Provides a subtle warmth and slight kick.
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika: Contributes a gentle smoky sweetness and an appealing color.
- 1 egg, lightly beaten: Acts as a binder, keeping the shrimp balls intact while frying.
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs: Adds structure and helps maintain the perfect tender-crisp texture.
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese: Gives a savory, nutty depth that enhances overall flavor complexity.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying): Ensures golden, crispy shrimp balls with a light fruity undertone.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: Creates the decadent base for the garlic butter sauce, coating each ball lushly.
- 3 more cloves garlic, minced (for sauce): Infuses the sauce with an irresistible aromatic punch.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens and balances the richness of the butter and shrimp.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish): Adds a final touch of freshness and visual appeal before serving.
How to Make Shrimp Balls in Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp Mixture
Start by combining the finely chopped shrimp with the first set of minced garlic, fresh parsley, salt, black pepper, paprika, beaten egg, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese in a large bowl. Stir everything thoroughly until you have a uniform mixture. This step is crucial because the even distribution of seasonings ensures each shrimp ball bursts with flavor.
Step 2: Shape the Shrimp Balls
Once mixed, use your hands to form the mixture into small, bite-sized balls roughly 1 inch in diameter. Keeping them uniform in size helps them cook evenly later. This is a fun step where you can get a bit creative with the shape if you want, but traditional round balls work best for even frying.
Step 3: Fry the Shrimp Balls
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Carefully add the shrimp balls in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry each side for about 3 to 4 minutes or until they develop a golden brown crust and are cooked through. The crispy outer layer provides a delightful contrast to the tender shrimp inside. When done, remove the shrimp balls and set them aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same pan, reduce the heat and add the unsalted butter. Once melted, stir in the remaining three cloves of minced garlic. Sauté gently for 1 to 2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and soft but not browned, as that would introduce bitterness. This infuses the butter with incredible garlic flavor that will coat your shrimp balls beautifully.
Step 5: Finish with Lemon and Toss
Add the fresh lemon juice to the garlic butter sauce and stir well. Then, return the cooked shrimp balls to the pan, gently tossing them so they soak up the garlicky buttery goodness. Allow them to cook together for another 1 to 2 minutes to marry the flavors perfectly before transferring to a serving dish.
How to Serve Shrimp Balls in Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley right before serving adds a lovely pop of green and a fresh aroma that complements the rich garlic butter sauce. You might also consider a light dusting of extra Parmesan for an added savory touch. These finishes make your presentation shine and elevate the whole dish.
Side Dishes
This shrimp balls recipe pairs wonderfully with simple sides like buttery steamed rice or fluffy pasta tossed in a bit of olive oil and lemon zest. A crisp garden salad or sautéed greens add balance with freshness and crunch, making it a well-rounded meal. For a heartier experience, try serving the shrimp balls over creamy mashed potatoes or grilled polenta.
Creative Ways to Present
To impress guests, serve the shrimp balls on a platter with toothpicks for easy snacking, perfect for cocktail parties or family gatherings. Alternatively, arrange them over a bed of garlicky spinach or roasted vegetables for an eye-catching plated dinner. Drizzle additional garlic butter sauce around the plate to keep things saucy and sumptuous.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any shrimp balls left after the meal, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’re best enjoyed within 2 days to maintain the freshness and tender texture. Make sure to keep the garlic butter sauce separate if possible to prevent the balls from becoming soggy.
Freezing
You can freeze the uncooked shrimp balls by placing them on a parchment-lined tray and freezing until solid, then transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. This method keeps them from sticking together and allows you to enjoy this dish anytime with minimal prep. When ready to cook, fry them straight from frozen, increasing the cooking time slightly to ensure they’re heated through.
Reheating
To reheat cooked shrimp balls, warm them gently in a skillet over low heat with a little butter or olive oil to revive their crispiness while coating them again in garlic butter sauce. Avoid microwaving as it can make them rubbery or soggy. This method keeps the flavors fresh and the texture just right.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely, pat them dry, and then finely chop before mixing. Properly drying the shrimp helps ensure your shrimp balls hold together well and fry beautifully.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If Parmesan isn’t available or if you prefer a different flavor, grated Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese are great alternatives that provide a similar savory punch.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, swap the regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs. This simple switch keeps the texture intact without sacrificing taste.
Can I bake the shrimp balls instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake the shrimp balls at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 minutes, turning halfway through. They won’t have quite the same crispiness as frying but still taste fantastic and are a lighter option.
How long do shrimp balls last once cooked?
When refrigerated promptly, cooked shrimp balls stay fresh for up to 2 days. Be sure to keep them in an airtight container to maintain their flavor and texture.
Final Thoughts
This Shrimp Balls in Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe is a total winner for anyone who loves bold, comforting seafood dishes with a touch of elegance. It’s simple to prepare but impressive in taste, making it perfect for any occasion—whether a casual dinner or a special gathering. I truly hope you give it a try and enjoy every garlicky, buttery bite as much as I do!
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Shrimp Balls in Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian Fusion
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
Shrimp Balls in Garlic Butter Sauce are a delicious Asian fusion appetizer featuring finely chopped shrimp mixed with aromatic herbs and spices, formed into bite-sized balls, fried until golden, and then coated in a rich garlic butter sauce with a hint of lemon. Perfect as a starter or served over rice or pasta for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Shrimp Balls
- 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
Garlic Butter Sauce
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the shrimp mixture: In a large bowl, combine finely chopped shrimp, 2 cloves minced garlic, fresh parsley, salt, black pepper, paprika, lightly beaten egg, breadcrumbs, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Form shrimp balls: Shape the mixture into small balls approximately 1 inch in diameter, ensuring they are compact for even cooking.
- Cook the shrimp balls: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp balls in batches, frying them for 3 to 4 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. Remove and set aside on a plate.
- Make the garlic butter sauce: Lower the heat, add unsalted butter and 3 cloves minced garlic to the same skillet, and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant but not browned.
- Add lemon juice: Stir in the lemon juice to the garlic butter sauce and mix well to combine the flavors.
- Coat shrimp balls in sauce: Return the cooked shrimp balls to the skillet and gently toss them in the garlic butter sauce to fully coat each ball. Cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the shrimp balls and serve warm, either as an appetizer or alongside rice or pasta for a complete dish.
Notes
- You can prepare the shrimp mixture ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to cook.
- Serve these shrimp balls as a delicious appetizer or over rice or pasta for a satisfying main course.
