Easy Shrimp Cakes: 5-Ingredient Zest! (Ready in 30 Min)

Get ready to impress with these incredibly simple yet utterly delicious Easy Shrimp Cakes with Lemon Aioli! This recipe proves that you don’t need a pantry full of ingredients to create something truly special. In just 30 minutes, you can have a gourmet-tasting appetizer or a light, satisfying meal on your table.

Our recipe uses only 5 core ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests. The zesty lemon aioli adds a bright, refreshing kick that perfectly complements the savory shrimp.

Introduction to Our Easy 5-Ingredient Shrimp Cakes

Shrimp cakes are a fantastic way to enjoy seafood without a lot of fuss. They’re quick to cook, versatile, and always a crowd-pleaser. We’ve streamlined the classic recipe to focus on flavor and efficiency.

This version truly highlights the natural sweetness of shrimp. Paired with a vibrant lemon aioli, these are sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation. They’re incredibly satisfying!

Why You’ll Love These Easy Shrimp Cakes: 5-Ingredient Zest!

There are so many reasons to adore these easy shrimp cakes! First, the simplicity is unmatched. You’ll spend more time enjoying them than preparing them.

Secondly, the flavor profile is outstanding. The fresh shrimp combined with the zesty lemon creates a light yet indulgent dish. It’s truly a delight for your tastebuds!

Finally, they are incredibly versatile. Serve them as an appetizer, a main course, or even in a sandwich. These truly are the perfect easy shrimp cakes!

The Simple 5 Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how few ingredients are required for this amazing dish. Quality ingredients make all the difference here.

1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 lemon (for zest and juice)
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh chives (or parsley)
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs, plus more for coating
Salt and black pepper to taste
Olive oil or neutral oil for frying

For the Lemon Aioli (optional, but highly recommended!):

1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 clove garlic, minced (or 1/4 tsp garlic powder)
Pinch of salt

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Shrimp Cakes

Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps for perfectly formed and deliciously cooked shrimp cakes.

Prepping Your Shrimp: A Quick Guide

Start by ensuring your shrimp are properly prepped. This step is crucial for the texture of your cakes.

Pat the peeled and deveined shrimp very dry with paper towels.
Finely chop half of the shrimp, and roughly chop the other half. This creates a great texture. Alternatively, pulse all the shrimp a few times in a food processor until finely chopped but not pureed.

Mixing & Forming Your Zesty Shrimp Cakes

Now, let’s combine the flavors and form our delicious cakes. Don’t overmix!

In a medium bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, 1/4 cup mayonnaise, lemon zest, chives, 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper.
Mix gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cakes tough.
Form the mixture into 6-8 small patties, about 1-inch thick.
Place the remaining panko breadcrumbs in a shallow dish. Dredge each shrimp cake lightly in the panko, coating both sides.

Cooking Your Delicious Shrimp Cakes

It’s time to cook these beauties until golden brown and crispy! A quick pan-fry is all it takes.

Heat 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil or neutral oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat.
Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the shrimp cakes into the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd. Cook in batches if necessary.
Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
While the shrimp cakes are cooking, prepare the lemon aioli if desired: whisk together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt.
Remove the cooked shrimp cakes from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Expert Tips for the Best 5-Ingredient Shrimp Cakes

**Don’t Overcook:** Shrimp cooks very quickly. Overcooking will make the cakes rubbery.
**Chill Before Cooking:** If time allows, chilling the formed patties for 15-20 minutes in the refrigerator can help them hold their shape better during cooking.
**Freshness Matters:** Using fresh, high-quality shrimp will elevate the flavor significantly.
**Customize Your Herbs:** Feel free to swap chives for fresh dill or cilantro for a different flavor profile.
**Serve Immediately:** These easy shrimp cakes are best enjoyed hot and fresh from the pan.

For more fantastic seafood ideas, Read our in-depth guide here.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

These versatility of these easy shrimp cakes makes them perfect for many occasions.

Appetizer: Serve with the Lemon Aioli as a dipping sauce.
Main Course: Pair with a simple green salad, roasted asparagus, or a side of quinoa.
Sliders: Tuck them into small buns with a dollop of aioli and some crisp lettuce.
Flavor Boost: A sprinkle of red pepper flakes in the mixture adds a nice kick!

For an excellent wine pairing with seafood, consider a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a dry Rosé. Check out Wine Folly’s guide to pairing wine with seafood for more ideas.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make these shrimp cakes ahead of time?

You can prepare the shrimp cake mixture and form the patties up to 24 hours in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator and dredge in panko just before cooking. Frying them fresh ensures the best texture.

What if I don’t have fresh shrimp?

Frozen shrimp can absolutely be used! Just ensure you thaw them completely and pat them very, very dry before chopping. Excess moisture can make the cakes fall apart.

How can I make the lemon aioli spicier?

To add a spicy kick to your lemon aioli, simply mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper, a dash of hot sauce, or a small amount of finely minced jalapeño.