As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of crisping bread filled the air, sparking joyous memories of family gatherings where laughter mingled with delightful bites. This Easy Baked Shrimp Toast is my go-to recipe for those moments when I want to impress friends and family without spending hours in the kitchen. Ready in under 30 minutes, this quick appetizer comes together effortlessly, combining a creamy shrimp mixture with crispy, golden-brown bread. It’s a festive dish that serves as a crowd-pleaser during celebrations or cozy nights in. Plus, you can easily customize the toppings, even adding cheese for that extra indulgence. Are you curious to see how simple it is to recreate this Vietnamese-inspired delight? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why is Baked Shrimp Toast a Must-Try?
Quick and Easy: In just under 30 minutes, you’ll have a show-stopping appetizer that makes entertaining a breeze.
Flavor Explosion: The creamy shrimp mixture combined with crispy bread delivers a taste sensation that will leave your guests raving.
Customizable Options: Feel free to experiment with toppings—add cheese or swap shrimp for crab for a seafood twist.
Holiday-Friendly: Perfect for festive gatherings, this dish effortlessly elevates any occasion, making it a go-to choice for celebrations.
Serve Fresh: For the best experience, serve immediately after baking to ensure that crispy texture is preserved.
If you enjoy seafood appetizers, you might also love my Stuffed Shrimp Savory or a refreshing Cold Shrimp Salad.
Baked Shrimp Toast Ingredients
• Get ready to create this delightful dish!
For the Shrimp Mixture
- Shrimp – 6 oz, peeled and deveined; use raw shrimp for the best texture.
- Mayonnaise – 3 tablespoons; adds creaminess and can be substituted with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Butter – 3 tablespoons, melted; adds richness, or can be replaced with olive oil for a dairy-free alternative.
- Garlic – 1 1/2 teaspoons, grated; fresh garlic is preferred for better flavor.
- Scallions – 1 1/2 tablespoons, thinly sliced; offers freshness, and chives can work as a substitute.
- Black Pepper – To taste; enhances overall flavor, adjust based on your spice preference.
For the Bread Base
- Bread – A baguette or ciabatta, choose crusty bread for perfect texture.
For the Garnish
- Basil – Thinly sliced; optional but adds a fragrant finish to your delicious baked shrimp toast.
Now that you have all the necessary ingredients lined up, let’s get cooking!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Baked Shrimp Toast
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures a hot, even cooking environment, perfect for achieving that crispy texture on your baked shrimp toast. A preheated oven helps the bread toast beautifully while the shrimp mixture bubbles up and turns golden brown.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
Chop the peeled and deveined shrimp into small, evenly-sized pieces. You can do this by hand or with a food chopper, aiming for a coarse consistency rather than a paste. This will provide a lovely texture in your Baked Shrimp Toast, allowing the shrimp to shine through the creamy mixture.
Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, mayonnaise, melted butter, grated garlic, thinly sliced scallions, and a sprinkle of black pepper. Stir until everything is well incorporated—this creamy shrimp mixture is the star of your baked shrimp toast, so take a moment to ensure it’s evenly blended.
Step 4: Slice the Bread
Next, take your baguette or ciabatta and slice it accordingly. For the baguette, aim for thin rounds, while for ciabatta, slice it in half horizontally. Each piece should be less than 1 inch thick to allow the toppings to fit perfectly and cook evenly.
Step 5: Assemble the Toasts
Spread the shrimp mixture generously over the cut sides of the bread. Make sure to cover every nook and cranny to achieve a delightful experience with each bite of your Baked Shrimp Toast. Arrange the slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the assembled baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes. The goal is to reach a golden, crispy topping and slightly toasted edges on the bread. Keep an eye on the color; the visual cues here will let you know when the toasts are ready to come out.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once your baked shrimp toast is perfectly golden and crisp, remove it from the oven. Sprinkle fresh, thinly sliced basil on top for a fragrant touch. Serving immediately allows your guests to enjoy that delightful crunch and creamy shrimp topping fresh from the oven, making it a truly memorable appetizer!
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Baked Shrimp Toasts are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the shrimp mixture up to 24 hours in advance, combining chopped shrimp, mayonnaise, melted butter, garlic, scallions, and black pepper, then refrigerate it tightly sealed. To maintain quality and prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery, store the mixture away from moisture. When you’re ready to serve, simply spread the chilled shrimp mix over your sliced bread and bake as instructed for 15-18 minutes. This way, you can enjoy a stress-free gathering with restaurant-quality Baked Shrimp Toast that will impress your guests with minimal effort!
Storage Tips for Baked Shrimp Toast
- Room Temperature: Best enjoyed fresh, serve immediately after baking to maintain the crispy texture and rich flavors. Avoid leaving it out for more than 2 hours.
- Fridge: If you have leftovers, store the baked shrimp toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven to restore crispiness.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the shrimp mixture (cooked or uncooked) separately in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Assemble on bread and bake when ready.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the toasts in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes, until warm and crispy again—the perfect way to savor your baked shrimp toast!
Expert Tips for Baked Shrimp Toast
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Choose Quality Shrimp: Use fresh, raw shrimp for the best texture. Frozen shrimp can work, but ensure they’re fully thawed before chopping.
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Evenly Chopped Shrimp: Avoid processing the shrimp into a paste; a coarse chop provides better texture and enhances the experience of your baked shrimp toast.
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Mind the Bread: Opt for crusty baguette or ciabatta to achieve the ideal crispy base. Slicing too thick may result in sogginess.
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Garnish Wisely: Fresh basil adds a fragrant finish, but it’s optional. Feel free to experiment with other herbs or spices for a unique twist!
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Serve Immediately: For ultimate enjoyment, serve your baked shrimp toast right after baking to retain that irresistible crispiness.
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Customize Toppings: Don’t hesitate to mix it up—consider adding cheese or swapping shrimp for crab to keep your appetizer intriguing and delightful!
What to Serve with Easy Baked Shrimp Toast
As you prepare your Easy Baked Shrimp Toast, delight your guests further by creating a memorable meal with these perfect pairings.
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Mixed Green Salad: Crisp greens with a zesty vinaigrette balance the rich toast, adding freshness and vibrant flavors to your spread.
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Garlic Breadsticks: These flavorful, buttery breadsticks complement the shrimp toast beautifully, offering a warm and inviting texture.
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Crispy Potato Wedges: Golden-brown and seasoned to perfection, these wedges provide a satisfying crunch that pairs well with the creaminess of the shrimp.
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Mango Salsa: This bright, fruity salsa adds a refreshing, tangy contrast to the savory shrimp, making your taste buds sing.
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Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio enhances the seafood flavors, elevating your dining experience and adding a touch of elegance.
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Sesame Green Beans: Lightly sautéed with sesame oil, these green beans add a nutty flavor and are a delightful complement to your dish.
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Chocolate Mousse: To finish on a sweet note, this rich dessert is a perfect end to your meal, offering a luscious texture that will impress your guests.
Mix and match these suggestions to create a beautifully balanced meal that brings joy and satisfaction to every bite!
Baked Shrimp Toast Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with this easy recipe and customize your Baked Shrimp Toast to suit your taste!
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Dairy-Free: Swap butter for olive oil and mayonnaise for Greek yogurt to keep it creamy yet dairy-free.
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Cheesy Delight: Mix in some shredded cheese, like mozzarella or cheddar, to the shrimp mixture or sprinkle on top before broiling for extra richness.
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Crab Option: Substitute shrimp with crab meat for a luxurious seafood twist that’s equally delicious and flavorful.
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Sourdough Switch: Use sourdough bread instead of baguette or ciabatta for a unique tang and heartier texture.
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Herb Infusion: Add fresh dill or parsley to the shrimp mixture for an herby flavor that brightens up each bite.
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Spicy Variation: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper into the shrimp mixture for a kick of heat that spice lovers will adore.
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Vegan Version: Use a vegan mayonnaise and tofu or chickpeas as the base for your seafood mix, allowing everyone to enjoy a plant-based delight.
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Citrus Zing: Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice to the shrimp mixture for a refreshing brightness that cuts through the richness beautifully.
If you’re looking for more seafood inspiration, check out my Thai Baked Chicken for a different flavor angle or a refreshing Cold Shrimp Salad that pairs perfectly with this toast!
Baked Shrimp Toast Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best texture in your Baked Shrimp Toast, use raw shrimp that is fresh, peeled, and deveined. Look for shrimp that is firm and has a slightly sweet ocean smell. If you’re using frozen shrimp, ensure they’re fully thawed and still firm—avoid any that have a mushy texture or dark spots.
Can I store leftover Baked Shrimp Toast?
Very! If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, to maintain that delightful crispiness, I recommend reheating them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes. This will help the edges get crispy again while warming the shrimp topping.
How can I freeze the shrimp mixture for later use?
Of course! To freeze the shrimp mixture, prepare it as directed, then place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, spread it on slices of bread and bake as per the recipe instructions—easy and delicious!
What should I do if the shrimp mixture is too runny?
If your shrimp mixture appears too runny, you can add a bit more mayonnaise or, alternatively, a small amount of breadcrumbs to absorb the excess moisture. Mix thoroughly until the consistency becomes thicker. This will ensure your Baked Shrimp Toast holds its shape and provides that satisfying texture.
Is this recipe suitable for those with shellfish allergies?
No, unfortunately! This recipe is not suitable for those with shellfish allergies, as it is primarily based on shrimp. If you’re looking for alternatives, consider replacing shrimp with a different topping, like roasted vegetables or a cheese spread, to create a delicious variation that accommodates those dietary needs.
Can I customize the toppings for my Baked Shrimp Toast?
Absolutely! The more, the merrier when it comes to customization! Feel free to experiment with toppings; you can mix in shredded cheese or top with different garnishes like a drizzle of spicy mayo or a sprinkle of Old Bay seasoning before baking. It allows you to personalize each bite to your taste preferences!
Baked Shrimp Toast That Will Impress Your Guests Fast
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Chop the peeled and deveined shrimp into small, evenly-sized pieces.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, mayonnaise, melted butter, grated garlic, thinly sliced scallions, and a sprinkle of black pepper. Stir until well incorporated.
- Slice your baguette or ciabatta. For baguette, aim for thin rounds; for ciabatta, slice it in half horizontally.
- Spread the shrimp mixture generously over the cut sides of the bread. Arrange slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Sprinkle fresh, thinly sliced basil on top and serve immediately.
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