Spicy Cajun Shrimp Cakes are crispy, golden seafood patties packed with bold Cajun spices, fresh shrimp, and sweet corn. Served with a zesty dipping sauce, these flavorful cakes make a perfect appetizer or main course for seafood lovers looking for a little Southern heat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy and Flavorful – A perfect balance of crunchy texture and bold Cajun spices.
- Quick and Easy – Simple ingredients and fast cooking time make this a great weeknight recipe.
- Great for Entertaining – A crowd-pleasing appetizer or main dish for any occasion.
- Customizable Heat – Adjust the spice level to your preference.
- Perfect for Mardi Gras – A festive dish inspired by Louisiana cuisine.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Shrimp Cakes:
- Shrimp (peeled, deveined, and chopped)
- Corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- Breadcrumbs
- All-purpose flour
- Eggs (beaten)
- Green onions (chopped)
- Garlic (minced)
- Cajun seasoning
- Smoked paprika
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Lemon juice
- Fresh parsley (chopped)
- Mayonnaise
- Hot sauce
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Dipping Sauce:
- Mayonnaise
- Hot sauce
- Cajun seasoning
- Lemon juice
Directions
Prepare the Shrimp Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, corn, breadcrumbs, flour, eggs, green onions, garlic, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, lemon juice, parsley, mayonnaise, and hot sauce.
- Mix until well combined and slightly sticky.
Shape the Patties:
- Form the mixture into small cakes (about 2 inches in diameter), pressing gently to shape.
Cook the Shrimp Cakes:
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Fry the shrimp cakes for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Make the Dipping Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, hot sauce, Cajun seasoning, and lemon juice until smooth.
Serve:
- Arrange shrimp cakes on a plate with dipping sauce and garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes about 10 shrimp cakes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Grilled Version – Cook the shrimp cakes on a lightly greased grill pan instead of frying.
- Baked Option – Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Extra Spicy – Increase the hot sauce and Cajun seasoning for added heat.
- Gluten-Free – Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.
- Cheesy Twist – Add shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese to the mixture.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep leftover shrimp cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes or in an air fryer for 3-4 minutes to maintain crispiness.
- Freezing: Freeze uncooked patties on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw before cooking.
FAQs
Can I use canned or pre-cooked shrimp?
Fresh raw shrimp works best, but pre-cooked shrimp can be used if finely chopped.
How do I keep my shrimp cakes from falling apart?
Make sure to press the mixture firmly into patties and chill for 10-15 minutes before frying if needed.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare and shape the patties, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking.
What’s the best oil for frying?
Vegetable, canola, or peanut oil works best for crispy shrimp cakes.
Can I air-fry these shrimp cakes?
Yes, air-fry at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.
What sides pair well with these shrimp cakes?
Serve with coleslaw, a fresh salad, or Cajun rice for a complete meal.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw and pat dry before chopping.
What dipping sauces go well with these shrimp cakes?
Remoulade, tartar sauce, or sriracha mayo are great options.
How can I make these shrimp cakes dairy-free?
They are naturally dairy-free—just ensure your dipping sauce does not contain dairy.
What’s the difference between shrimp cakes and crab cakes?
Shrimp cakes use chopped shrimp for a firmer texture, while crab cakes are more delicate and flaky.
Conclusion
Spicy Cajun Shrimp Cakes are a crispy, flavorful, and easy-to-make seafood dish perfect for any occasion. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, these shrimp cakes deliver bold Cajun flavors with just the right amount of spice. Pair them with a zesty dipping sauce and enjoy a taste of Louisiana!
