Shrimp Balls Recipe

Name: Shrimp Balls Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 lb raw shrimp (peeled and deveined); 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1 egg (beaten); 1/4 cup green onions (finely chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tablespoon fresh ginger (grated); 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; Salt and black pepper to taste; Vegetable oil for frying

Published: July 2, 2025

by Emilia

Pinterest Facebook WhatsApp X Yummly

Shrimp Balls are a delicious and versatile appetizer or main dish that combines the delicate sweetness of shrimp with savory seasonings and a crispy outer texture. These bite-sized delights are easy to make and perfect for a variety of occasions, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner, a holiday gathering, or an appetizer for your next party. With their juicy interior and golden crust, shrimp balls offer a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will leave everyone reaching for more.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: This shrimp balls recipe is simple, making it suitable for cooks of any skill level.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of fresh shrimp and aromatic spices creates an unforgettable taste.
Versatile Dish: Serve them as an appetizer, snack, or even the main course – they fit any meal occasion.
Perfectly Crispy: Frying the shrimp balls gives them a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with their tender inside.
Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to make this dish truly your own.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Food processor
Mixing bowl
Frying pan
Spatula
Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Food processor: Simplifies chopping shrimp and mixing ingredients together smoothly.
Frying pan: Ensures even cooking and crispiness when frying the shrimp balls.
Spatula: Helps in flipping and removing the shrimp balls without breaking them.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp Balls

1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/2 cup breadcrumbs, preferably panko
1 egg, beaten
1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped (optional)
1 tablespoon cornstarch, optional (for binding)
Vegetable oil, for frying

How to Make Shrimp Balls Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp Mixture

In a food processor, add the peeled and deveined shrimp. Pulse until coarsely ground.
Transfer the ground shrimp to a mixing bowl.
Add in the breadcrumbs, beaten egg, green onions, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, black pepper, cilantro (if using), and cornstarch (if using). Mix well until combined.

Step 2: Form the Balls

With wet hands (to prevent sticking), take small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls about 1 inch in diameter.
Place each ball on a plate lined with parchment paper to keep them from sticking.

Step 3: Fry the Shrimp Balls

Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat until hot.
Carefully add the shrimp balls to the pan in batches to avoid crowding.
Fry for about 3–4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Remove them from the pan and drain on paper towels.

Enjoy your homemade shrimp balls as an irresistible appetizer or main dish!

How to Serve Shrimp Balls Recipe

Serving Shrimp Balls is a delightful experience that can elevate any gathering. These flavorful bites can be paired with a variety of dips and sides, making them versatile for any occasion.

With Dipping Sauces

Sweet and Sour Sauce – A tangy sauce that complements the shrimp’s sweetness.
Spicy Mayo – Creamy with a kick, this sauce adds an exciting flavor contrast.
Soy Sauce – Simple and classic, soy sauce enhances the umami notes in the shrimp.
Chili Garlic Sauce – For those who love heat, this sauce delivers bold spice.

As Part of a Platter

Shrimp Cocktail – Enjoy your shrimp balls alongside chilled shrimp for contrast in texture.
Vegetable Spring Rolls – Pairing with fresh spring rolls offers a crunchy element to the meal.
Cheese Platter – Include various cheeses for an inviting appetizer spread.

With Fresh Salads

Cucumber Salad – A refreshing cucumber salad can balance the richness of the shrimp balls.
Asian Slaw – This tangy slaw adds crunch and zest to your serving plate.

How to Perfect Shrimp Balls Recipe

To ensure your Shrimp Balls turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

Use fresh shrimp – Fresh shrimp provides better flavor and texture than frozen options.
Don’t overmix – Mixing too much can make your shrimp balls tough; blend just until combined.
Chill before frying – Chilling the mixture helps it hold together better during cooking.
Adjust seasoning – Feel free to tweak seasonings according to your taste preferences for a personal touch.

Best Side Dishes for Shrimp Balls Recipe

Pairing side dishes with Shrimp Balls can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent choices:

Garlic Rice – A fragrant rice dish that complements the flavors of shrimp beautifully.
Stir-Fried Vegetables – Colorful veggies add nutrition and balance to your plate.
Coleslaw – Crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the crispy shrimp balls.
Coconut Curry Noodles – Rich and creamy, these noodles pair wonderfully with seafood dishes.
Quinoa Salad – A healthy option that brings additional texture and flavor variety.
Roasted Potatoes – Crispy potatoes offer heartiness and a satisfying crunch alongside shrimp balls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making shrimp balls can be simple, but a few common mistakes can hinder your results. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

Overprocessing the shrimp: Blending the shrimp too finely can lead to a dense texture. Pulse until just combined for a light and airy bite.
Skipping the breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs provide essential structure and crunch. Always include them for the best texture.
Not seasoning enough: Shrimp can be bland without proper seasoning. Taste your mixture before frying and adjust as needed.
Frying at the wrong temperature: If the oil is too hot, the outside will burn while the inside remains raw. Aim for medium heat for even cooking.
Crowding the pan: Adding too many shrimp balls at once lowers oil temperature and results in soggy balls. Fry in batches to ensure crispiness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover shrimp balls in an airtight container.
They will stay fresh for up to 2 days in the fridge.

Freezing Shrimp Balls Recipe

Place uncooked shrimp balls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container; they can last up to 2 months.

Reheating Shrimp Balls Recipe

Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, but this may result in a softer texture.
Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about making shrimp balls, here are some common questions answered.

What is the best way to prepare shrimp balls?

Shrimp Balls Recipe is best made by mixing chopped shrimp with seasonings, forming into balls, and frying until golden brown for crispy perfection.

Can I bake shrimp balls instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake shrimp balls! Brush them with oil and bake at 375°F (190°C) until golden brown, usually around 20-25 minutes.

How do I know when my shrimp balls are cooked?

Shrimp balls should be golden brown on the outside and cooked through to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Can I customize my shrimp balls recipe?

Absolutely! You can add ingredients like jalapeños, lime zest, or different herbs to suit your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

These Shrimp Balls are not just delicious; they offer great versatility as appetizers or main dishes. Feel free to customize them with your favorite spices or herbs. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this recipe is sure to impress!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card