If you’re craving a snack that’s bursting with flavor, vibrant color, and an irresistible crunch, you are going to love this Crispy Baked Shrimp with Spicy Lime Sriracha Dipping Sauce Recipe. It combines tender, succulent shrimp baked to perfection with a crispy, golden coating, all elevated by a zingy, creamy dipping sauce that balances heat, tang, and a little hint of sweetness. This dish is perfect for sharing as an appetizer or enjoying as a light main course that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe thrives on simple yet impactful ingredients, each bringing something special to the table—from the crunch of panko breadcrumbs to the lively heat of sriracha. With just a handful of pantry staples and fresh components, you’ll craft a dish that hits every note: crisp, spicy, creamy, and zesty.
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined): The star of the dish, these should be fresh or properly thawed for best texture.
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or 1 ½ cups if omitting the coconut): Provides light, airy crunch that’s essential for that perfect crispy bite.
- 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut (or substitute with ¼ cup garlic powder or Parmesan cheese): Adds a subtle, toasty sweetness or a different savory twist if swapped out.
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors naturally without overpowering.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Creates a creamy, rich base for the dipping sauce that complements the spice.
- 1/4 cup sriracha sauce (adjust for spiciness): Brings the kick and signature heat to the dipping sauce.
- 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice: Adds fresh citrus brightness to brighten and balance the heat.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Helps the coating adhere perfectly to each shrimp.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: For seasoning the flour and shrimp throughout.
- 2 large eggs (beaten): Acts as the glue between the flour and breadcrumb layers.
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish: Delivers a fresh, vibrant finish and a pop of green color.
How to Make Crispy Baked Shrimp with Spicy Lime Sriracha Dipping Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Setup
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Lightly oil a rack or spray it with cooking oil, then place it on a baking sheet—this will allow the shrimp to crisp from all sides as they bake. Setting this up early makes the process smooth and ensures a crispy finish.
Step 2: Toast Your Breadcrumb Mixture
Combine the panko breadcrumbs with shredded coconut—or your chosen substitute like garlic powder or Parmesan—in a bowl. Spread this mixture evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet and toast it in the oven for around 4 minutes until golden. This step unlocks a toasty flavor and extra crunch, which is absolutely crucial for that perfect bite.
Step 3: Season the Toasted Crumbs
Return the toasted breadcrumb mixture to your bowl and mix in the kosher salt. This simple seasoning step brings all the flavors to life and prepares the mix for coating the shrimp.
Step 4: Whip Up the Spicy Lime Sriracha Dipping Sauce
Mix mayonnaise, sriracha, and freshly squeezed lime juice in a small bowl. Cover and refrigerate it while you prepare the shrimp; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully, producing a dipping sauce that is creamy, spicy, and tangy all at once.
Step 5: Create Your Breading Station
On a plate, season the flour with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Set the beaten eggs in a small bowl nearby. Spread out your breadcrumb mixture on another plate. With this assembly line, breading each shrimp becomes an enjoyable and efficient process.
Step 6: Bread the Shrimp
Dip each shrimp first into the seasoned flour, gently shaking off any extra. Next, fully coat it in the beaten eggs. Finally, press the shrimp into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure each one is thoroughly covered for that unbeatable crunch after baking.
Step 7: Bake the Shrimp to Perfection
Lay a new piece of parchment paper on your baking sheet and arrange the breaded shrimp on the prepared rack without overcrowding. Then crank the oven temperature up to 425°F and bake for 8 to 10 minutes. You’ll know they are done when the shrimp are a beautiful golden brown and irresistibly crispy.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the crispy shrimp to a platter, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley, and serve alongside your zingy Spicy Lime Sriracha Dipping Sauce. The combination will delight your palate and elevate any gathering or weeknight dinner.
How to Serve Crispy Baked Shrimp with Spicy Lime Sriracha Dipping Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley is a simple yet effective garnish that adds a burst of color and a hint of herbal brightness, perfectly complementing the shrimp’s heat and crunch. A few lime wedges on the side also never hurt, letting everyone add a little extra splash of zing.
Side Dishes
To round out the meal, serve these shrimp with light and refreshing sides like a crisp cucumber salad, jasmine rice, or even a creamy avocado slaw. These accompaniments balance out the spice and texture while keeping the meal feeling fresh and lively.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving the shrimp on a bed of mixed greens with edible flowers for a stunning appetizer presentation. Or arrange the shrimp on skewers for easy party fare, paired with small bowls of the Spicy Lime Sriracha Dipping Sauce for guests to dunk. The possibilities are as fun as they are delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover crispy baked shrimp in an airtight container and refrigerate. They are best eaten within 2 days to maintain their texture and flavor without compromising freshness.
Freezing
If you want to save them for later, freeze the fully cooked shrimp in a single layer on a parchment-lined tray. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months and make for a quick snack or meal.
Reheating
To bring the shrimp back to their crispy glory, reheat them in a preheated oven at 400°F for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the coating becomes crisp again. Avoid microwaving as it can make the breading soggy, losing all that delightful crunch.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry to avoid excess moisture, which can prevent the breading from sticking properly and becoming crispy.
Is there a way to make this recipe less spicy?
Yes, simply reduce the amount of sriracha in the dipping sauce or substitute it with a milder hot sauce or even a chili garlic sauce to keep the flavor without too much heat.
Can I make the dipping sauce ahead of time?
Definitely! The sauce actually benefits from chilling for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together, making it perfect to prepare before you start breading the shrimp.
What’s a good alternative if I don’t have panko breadcrumbs?
You can use regular breadcrumbs, crushed cornflakes, or even crushed crackers for a similar crunch, but panko really gives that extra light, crispy texture.
Is baking the best method, or can I fry the shrimp instead?
Baking is a healthier option that still yields amazing crispiness thanks to the toasted breadcrumb mixture. However, you can shallow or deep-fry the shrimp if you want an even richer, golden crunch, just watch your oil temperature carefully.
Final Thoughts
This Crispy Baked Shrimp with Spicy Lime Sriracha Dipping Sauce Recipe is one of those gems that feels indulgent but comes together with ease. It’s crunchy, spicy, tangy, and downright addictive. Whether you’re cooking for friends, family, or just treating yourself, I promise this recipe will make your shrimp nights more exciting. Give it a try and prepare to impress everyone at your table!
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Crispy Baked Shrimp with Spicy Lime Sriracha Dipping Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Crispy Baked Shrimp is a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer featuring large shrimp coated in a crunchy mixture of panko breadcrumbs and shredded coconut (or garlic powder/Parmesan), then baked to golden perfection. Served with a spicy sriracha mayo dipping sauce and garnished with fresh parsley, this recipe is perfect for gatherings or a flavorful snack.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Coating
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or 1 ½ cups if omitting the coconut)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut (or substitute with ¼ cup garlic powder or Parmesan cheese)
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
Dipping Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sriracha sauce (adjust for spiciness)
- 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Rack: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly oil a rack or use cooking spray, then place it on a baking sheet and set aside.
- Mix Breadcrumbs and Coconut: In a bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with shredded coconut (or your chosen substitute of garlic powder or Parmesan cheese) until well mixed.
- Toast the Breadcrumb Mixture: Line the baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Spread the breadcrumb mixture evenly on the parchment and bake for about 4 minutes until golden brown and fragrant.
- Season the Breadcrumbs: Transfer the toasted breadcrumb mixture back to the bowl and stir in the kosher salt to evenly distribute the seasoning.
- Make the Dipping Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, and freshly squeezed lime juice. Mix well, cover, and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Set Up Breading Station: On one plate, place the all-purpose flour and season it with salt and pepper. In a small bowl, have the beaten eggs ready. On another plate, spread out the toasted breadcrumb mixture.
- Bread the Shrimp: Dip each shrimp first into the flour, shaking off excess, then into the beaten eggs, and finally coat well with the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring even coverage.
- Arrange Shrimp on Rack: Place a fresh sheet of parchment paper on the baking sheet. Arrange the breaded shrimp spaced evenly on the prepared rack to allow airflow during baking.
- Bake the Shrimp: Increase the oven temperature to 425°F and bake the shrimp for 8 to 10 minutes, or until they turn crispy and golden brown. Monitor closely to avoid overcooking.
- Serve: Transfer the crispy baked shrimp to a serving platter, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and enjoy them hot with the prepared spicy sriracha mayo dipping sauce.
Notes
- You can substitute shredded coconut with garlic powder or Parmesan cheese depending on your taste preference or dietary needs.
- Adjust the amount of sriracha in the dipping sauce to control the spice level.
- Using a rack while baking helps the shrimp get crispy on all sides without frying.
- Make sure to toast the breadcrumb mixture prior to coating the shrimp for an extra crispy texture.
- Ensure shrimp are peeled and deveined for the best eating experience.
