These Shrimp Baguette Bites are super easy to make and will impress your guests with their delicious flavors. The crispy baguette slices are topped with juicy shrimp, creamy mayo, and melty cheese. Each bite is a burst of flavor that will leave you wanting more.
What I love about this recipe is how simple yet delicious it is. You don’t need a lot of ingredients or time to make something that tastes amazing. Plus, it’s a great way to bring the bold and fiery flavors of Latin American cuisine into your kitchen.
Choosing the Best Baguette
One of the keys to making these Shrimp Baguette Bites extra special is choosing the best baguette. Look for a baguette that is fresh, with a crispy crust and a soft, airy inside. A good baguette should have a nice golden color and a slight crunch when you bite into it. If you can, buy your baguette from a local bakery to ensure it’s freshly baked. This will make a big difference in the texture and taste of your Shrimp Baguette Bites.
So, get ready to wow your guests with these irresistible Shrimp Baguette Bites. Grab a fresh baguette, some juicy shrimp, and let’s get cooking!
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes – Shrimp Baguette Bites
- Shrimp Selection: Always opt for fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture. Frozen shrimp can be used if fresh is not available, but ensure they are properly thawed and dried.
- Fish Sauce Quality: Using high-quality fish sauce can significantly enhance the umami flavor of the shrimp mixture. Look for brands that have a clear and rich flavor.
- Cheese Variations: While a mix of cheddar and mozzarella works great, you can experiment with other cheeses like Parmesan or Gouda for different flavor profiles.
- Extra Flavor Boost: Adding a clove of finely minced garlic when cooking the shallots can add an extra layer of flavor.
- Texture Control: For a crunchier bite, broil the baguette slices for an additional minute after baking. Watch closely to prevent burning.
- Dipping Sauce Pairing: These bites pair wonderfully with dipping sauces like sweet chili, soy sauce, or even a tangy garlic aioli.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free baguette if catering to guests with gluten sensitivities.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the cheese and mayonnaise with dairy-free alternatives for a lactose-free version.
- Presentation Tip: Garnish the shrimp bites with a sprinkle of finely chopped green onions or a light dusting of smoked paprika for an attractive presentation.
Shrimp Baguette Bites
4
servings15
minutes15
minutes68
kcal5
minutes35
minutesGet ready to wow your guests with these Shrimp Baguette Bites! This delightful appetizer combines succulent shrimp, creamy mayo, and melty cheese on crispy baguette slices. Perfect for any occasion, these bites are easy to make and absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick snack, this recipe is sure to impress!
Ingredients
- Bread Base
1 loaf French baguette sliced into ½-inch pieces
- Shrimp Mixture
0.5 pound fresh shrimp peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
0.5 small shallot finely chopped (about 2 tablespoons)
0.5 teaspoon premium fish sauce
2-3 stalks green onions thinly sliced
0.25 cup creamy mayonnaise
0.67 cup mixed shredded cheese (cheddar and mozzarella)
- Seasoning
Salt and black pepper
- Alternative Ingredients:
Bread Base: Gluten-free baguette for gluten-free option.
Shrimp Mixture: Use cooked chicken or tofu for a different protein.
Mayonnaise: Greek yogurt or vegan mayo for a dairy-free option.
Cheese: Dairy-free cheese for lactose intolerance.
Directions
- Prepare Shrimp – Preheat your oven to 300°F. Using a food processor or a sharp knife, finely chop the shrimp until they are in small bits but not a paste. Set aside.
- Cook Shallots and Shrimp – Heat the vegetable oil in a nonstick pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped shallots and sauté until they become soft and translucent (about 2-3 minutes). Add the chopped shrimp to the pan and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the shrimp turns opaque (about 2-3 minutes), breaking them into smaller pieces with a wooden spoon.
- Mix Ingredients – When the shrimp is about 75% cooked, stir in the fish sauce and green onions. Cook for an additional minute before removing the pan from heat. Allow the mixture to cool for about 5 minutes before adding the mayonnaise and shredded cheese. Mix well and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Assemble Toasts – Spread a thin layer of the shrimp mixture onto each baguette slice. Optionally top with extra cheese if desired. Arrange the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Bake – Bake in the preheated oven for 8-12 minutes or until the baguette is lightly toasted and the cheese has melted. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Equipment
- chef’s knife
- cutting board
- Food Processor
- nonstick pan
- Baking sheet
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 68kcal
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 33mg
- Sodium: 199mg
- Potassium: 30mg
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Vitamin A: 39IU
- Vitamin C: 1mg
- Calcium: 44mg
- Iron: 1mg
FAQ – Shrimp Baguette Bites
Can I use pre-cooked shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked shrimp. Simply chop the shrimp into small pieces and mix directly with the other ingredients. Reduce the cooking time when combining with the shallots to avoid overcooking.
What type of bread works best for this recipe?
A French baguette is ideal due to its firm texture and ability to crisp up nicely in the oven. If you need a gluten-free option, look for a gluten-free baguette with similar texture.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the shrimp mixture up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble the baguette slices just before baking to ensure they stay crispy.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add a spicy kick, you can mix in finely chopped chili peppers or a dash of hot sauce into the shrimp mixture. Alternatively, sprinkle red pepper flakes on top before baking.
Is there a vegetarian alternative to shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the shrimp with cooked, finely chopped mushrooms or tofu to create a vegetarian version of this appetizer.
What can I serve alongside Shrimp Baguette Bites?
These bites are versatile and can be served with a variety of sides such as a light salad, vegetable crudités, or a selection of dipping sauces like sweet chili, garlic aioli, or soy sauce.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 5-7 minutes to regain the crispiness.
