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These creamy shrimp cheese rolls make a fantastic snack or appetizer with their delightful balance of tender shrimp and gooey cheeses wrapped in a crispy golden shell. They come together quickly and deliver a satisfying crunch complementing the rich, melty interior. Perfect for casual gatherings or whenever you want a flavorful treat that impresses with minimal fuss.
I made these for a casual weekend gathering and they disappeared faster than I could say more please. Everyone loved how the crispy exterior complemented the creamy shrimp inside making them an instant hit in my circle.
Ingredients
- Large shrimp: peeled and deveined for easy eating and fresh seafood flavor Choose firm shrimp with a mild scent for the best taste
- Cream cheese: softened to create a luscious base that holds everything together smoothly Room temperature cream cheese blends better with other ingredients
- Shredded mozzarella: adds gooey meltiness and mild savory notes Look for whole milk mozzarella for richer flavor and better melting
- Fresh parsley: chopped to bring brightness and a mild herbaceous touch Use bright green sprigs that are fragrant and tender
- Garlic powder: for subtle warmth and depth that ties the flavors together Freshly ground garlic powder can enhance the aroma
- Salt and pepper: to enhance and balance all the tastes Use kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper whenever possible
- Egg roll wrappers or spring roll sheets: that crisp up perfectly when fried Keep wrappers covered to avoid drying out while working
- One egg: to seal the rolls so nothing escapes during frying Large eggs provide the right amount of adhesion
- Allpurpose flour: for the first dredge to help the coating stick Use sifted flour for even coverage
- Panko breadcrumbs: for unbeatable crunch and golden color Lightly toasting panko can deepen flavor and improve texture
- Vegetable oil: for frying giving the rolls a light crispy texture without absorbing too much oil Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point like canola or sunflower
Instructions
- Cook the Shrimp:
- Sauté shrimp lightly in a pan over medium heat seasoned with salt pepper and garlic powder Cook about 2 to 3 minutes until shrimp turn pink and are just cooked through to keep them juicy and tender Set aside to cool slightly before mixing.
- Mix the Filling:
- In a large bowl combine softened cream cheese with shredded mozzarella chopped parsley and the cooked shrimp Chop shrimp if you prefer smaller pieces or keep whole for more texture Stir gently until evenly mixed creating a creamy savory filling.
- Wrap It Tight:
- Lay egg roll wrappers flat on a clean surface Spoon a generous amount of filling onto the center of each wrapper Fold in the sides and roll tightly using the beaten egg to seal the edges firmly This prevents filling from leaking during frying and ensures neat rolls.
- Coat and Fry:
- Dredge each roll lightly in allpurpose flour to help the egg wash stick Dip rolls in beaten egg then coat thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs for a crunchy crust Heat vegetable oil to about 350 degrees Fahrenheit in a deep pan Fry rolls in batches for 3 to 4 minutes until golden brown and crisp Drain on paper towels carefully.
- Serve Hot with Sauce:
- Transfer the crispy golden rolls to a serving platter and serve immediately Offer dipping sauces like garlic aioli spicy mayo or ranch The combination of the hot melty filling with the crunchy exterior and flavorful sauce makes these irresistible.
Shrimp is my favorite addition for this recipe because it brings the perfect seafood sweetness without overpowering the cheese. One family night we made these together and seeing everyone’s delight enjoying the crispy rolls was unforgettable. The combination of textures and flavors sparked so much conversation and smiles around the table that it became a cherished tradition.
Storage Tips
Store leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat in a hot oven or air fryer to restore crispiness without making them soggy. Avoid microwaving as it softens the crunchy coating losing the delightful texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap mozzarella for provolone or Monterey Jack to introduce different melting properties and flavor notes. Cream cheese can be replaced with mascarpone for an even creamier filling. If egg roll wrappers are unavailable wonton wrappers work but expect a thinner crust which fries up more delicately.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these rolls with a fresh crisp green salad or lightly steamed vegetables to balance the richness. Offering a small selection of dipping sauces lets guests customize their bites and adds a fun interactive element to any gathering.
Serve these rolls hot for the best contrast of crunchy exterior and melty interior. They are great for parties and can be prepped ahead then fried when guests arrive.
Common Questions About the Recipe
- → What type of shrimp works best?
Large peeled and deveined shrimp offer the best texture and fresh seafood flavor, ensuring juicy bites inside the rolls.
- → Can I use different cheeses?
Yes, mozzarella and cream cheese provide a creamy base, but swapping in cheddar or Monterey Jack can add sharper flavor notes.
- → How do I get the rolls extra crispy?
Double coating the rolls in flour, egg wash, then panko breadcrumbs before frying creates a crunchy golden crust.
- → What oil is recommended for frying?
Vegetable oil or any neutral high-heat oil is ideal to fry at 350°F for an even, crisp finish without overpowering flavors.
- → Can these rolls be prepared ahead and frozen?
Yes, you can assemble and freeze them before frying. Fry straight from frozen to maintain crunch and flavor.