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Crispy Garlic Butter Shrimp Bites with Avocado Mousse

crispy garlic butter shrimp bites - featured image

These crispy garlic butter shrimp bites are a quick and easy party appetizer, featuring crunchy, garlicky shrimp atop a creamy avocado mousse. Perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or a special movie night treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tail-off or tail-on)
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp lemon zest
  • 2 ripe avocados, peeled and pitted
  • 2 tbsp sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
  • 2 tbsp lime juice
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Microgreens or fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
  • Lime wedges

Instructions

  1. Pat shrimp dry with paper towels. Season with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Let sit for 5 minutes.
  2. Set up breading station: place flour in one shallow bowl, beaten eggs in another, and panko breadcrumbs in a third.
  3. Dredge each shrimp in flour, dip in egg, then coat with panko. Press lightly so crumbs stick.
  4. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in parsley and lemon zest, then remove half the butter to a small bowl for drizzling.
  5. Add breaded shrimp to the skillet in batches. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Transfer to paper towels to drain.
  6. Blend avocados, sour cream, lime juice, salt, garlic powder, and olive oil in a food processor until smooth and airy (about 1-2 minutes). Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  7. Spoon a dollop of avocado mousse onto each serving spoon or cracker. Top with a crispy shrimp, then drizzle with reserved garlic butter. Garnish with microgreens or cilantro, if desired.
  8. Arrange on a platter and serve immediately while shrimp are warm and crunchy. To hold, keep shrimp warm in a 200°F oven for up to 30 minutes.

Notes

For gluten-free, use almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs. For dairy-free, substitute coconut yogurt and dairy-free butter. Double-bread shrimp for extra crunch. Air-fryer and oven-baked methods work well for lighter bites. Keep shrimp warm in the oven, uncovered, to maintain crispiness. Avocado mousse can be made ahead, but add lime juice just before serving for best color.

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp appetizer, garlic butter shrimp, avocado mousse, party bites, crispy shrimp, easy appetizer, gluten-free option, air fryer shrimp, finger food