As the sun sets on another busy day, the irresistible aroma of shrimp sizzling on the grill beckons from the kitchen. I can’t help but smile at how easy it is to create something delicious and satisfying. These Cilantro Shrimp Burgers are a delightful escape from mundane weeknight meals, offering a fresh twist on traditional burgers that the whole family will adore. With a burst of zesty lime and vibrant cilantro nestled in each juicy bite, you’ll want these in your dinner rotation.

Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply yearning for a quick, wholesome meal after a long day, this recipe has got you covered. Plus, you have the freedom to customize your toppings, whether you prefer a spicy kick from fresh jalapeño or a cool slice of avocado. Join me as we whip up these delectable shrimp burgers topped with creamy guacamole, transforming a simple dinner into a culinary delight that just might become your new favorite!

Why are Shrimp Burgers a Must-Try?

Irresistible Flavor: These shrimp burgers bring a burst of zesty flavor, with fresh cilantro and lime making every bite a delight.
Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, they come together in no time!
Family-Friendly: Guaranteed to please picky eaters, making it a great choice for everyone at the table.
Customizable: Enjoy the freedom to personalize toppings, whether you like it spicy or extra creamy.
Health-Conscious: Packed with protein and low in carbs if served without a bun, they’re a nutritious option that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Make sure to serve them alongside a side of sweet potato fries or a fresh salad to complete your meal!

Shrimp Burger Ingredients

• Let’s get everything you need to create perfect shrimp burgers with flavorful toppings!

For the Burger Patties

Raw Shrimp – The main protein source; make sure it’s peeled and deveined for easy preparation.
Breadcrumbs – Provides structure and binds the burger patties, gluten-free breadcrumbs are a great alternative.
Fresh Cilantro – Adds vibrant flavor; you can substitute parsley if you prefer a different herb.
Garlic – Adds depth; fresh minced garlic enhances the flavor beautifully.
Ground Cumin – Imparts warm, earthy tones; swap it with coriander for a milder flavor.
Paprika – Brings a lovely color and subtle smokiness; opt for smoked paprika for a punchier effect.
Salt and Pepper – Essential for flavor enhancement, adjust to your personal taste preference.
Egg – Acts as a binder for the patties; for a vegan option, use a flax egg instead.
Lime Juice – Provides acidity to balance flavors; freshly squeezed is always best.

For the Guacamole

Avocado – The creamy base for guacamole; ensure it’s ripe for the best mashing.
Red Onion – Adds a crunchy bite and sharpness, green onions can be used for a milder taste.
Jalapeño – Delivers heat; remove it if you want a milder guacamole.
Salt – Enhances the flavors of the guacamole; adjust to taste.

Burger Assembly

Burger Buns – Any type is suitable; brioche or whole grain works wonderfully.
Lettuce and Tomato – Fresh toppings that add a nice crunch; feel free to use any salad greens of your choice.

These ingredients come together beautifully to create delicious shrimp burgers that will surely impress!

How to Make Shrimp Burgers

Prepare the Shrimp: Pulse the raw shrimp in a food processor until coarsely chopped, ensuring it maintains a bit of texture for those delightful bites.
Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, combine shrimp with breadcrumbs, fresh cilantro, minced garlic, ground cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, egg, and lime juice. Mix well until evenly combined, about 2 minutes.
Form Patties: Shape the mixture into patties about 1 inch thick, ensuring they’re compact to hold together during cooking.
Heat Cooking Surface: Preheat a grill or skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it to prevent sticking, approximately 5 minutes.
Cook Patties: Grill or sauté the patties for 4-5 minutes per side until they are cooked through and have a light golden brown color.
Make Guacamole: While the shrimp burgers are cooking, mash avocado in a bowl with red onion, jalapeño (if using), lime juice, and salt until creamy.
Assemble Burgers: If desired, toast the buns slightly. Place a shrimp patty on each bun, generously topping it with the creamy guacamole.
Add Toppings: Garnish with fresh lettuce and tomato as desired for added crunch and flavor.
Serve: Enjoy your shrimp burgers immediately for the best flavor and texture, inviting your family to join in this delectable feast.

Optional: Serve alongside sweet potato fries for an extra treat!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Shrimp Burgers

Texture Matters: Ensure the shrimp is coarsely chopped, not puréed; this maintains the perfect juicy texture in your shrimp burgers.
Preheat Surface: Always preheat your grill or skillet for about 5 minutes before cooking. This helps avoid sticking and achieving a lovely golden crust.
Don’t Overcrowd: Cook patties in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the cooking surface can lead to steaming rather than grilling, affecting flavor and texture.
Customize with Care: Feel free to modify your shrimp burger toppings, but be cautious with strong flavors like jalapeño; taste as you go to find your perfect balance.
Serving Fresh: Serve your shrimp burgers hot off the grill for the best flavor and texture. They’re best enjoyed immediately, ensuring that juicy goodness.
Storage Tips: If making ahead, keep uncooked patties chilled for up to a day. Cooked patties can be stored in the fridge for two days for quick meals!

Make Ahead Options

These Cilantro Shrimp Burgers are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the shrimp patties and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. Simply follow the initial steps to pulse the shrimp and mix it with the other ingredients, then shape the mixture into patties. Place them on a parchment-lined tray and cover tightly with plastic wrap to maintain moisture and prevent any unwanted odors. When you’re ready to cook, just heat your grill or skillet and follow the cooking instructions for perfectly juicy shrimp burgers. Finish with your deliciously prepared guacamole and enjoy a tasty weeknight meal that feels effortless!

What to Serve with Cilantro Shrimp Burgers with Creamy Guacamole?

Creating a delightful dinner that complements your shrimp burgers will elevate your meal to a whole new level.

Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: These fries add a sweet, crunchy contrast that balances the tender shrimp burgers perfectly.
Zesty Coleslaw: A tangy slaw provides a refreshing crunch, enhancing each bite and adding vibrant color to your plate.
Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies, lightly charred, offer smoky flavors that pair beautifully with the lightness of shrimp.
Avocado Salad: With creamy avocado and a citrus dressing, this salad brings a refreshing note that echoes the creamy guacamole topping.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet, buttery corn brings a juicy, crisp element to the meal; serve it drizzled with lime for a punchy twist.
Mango Salsa: The sweetness of fresh mango salsa gives a fruity zing that complements the shrimp’s savory goodness.
Chilled White Wine: A glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio offers a light, breezy pairing, enhancing the overall experience of your meal.

Crafting a side dish to elevate your shrimp burgers makes dinner a delightful occasion everyone will look forward to!

Shrimp Burgers Variations

Get creative and make these shrimp burgers your own with these delicious twists!

Crab Cakes: Substitute shrimp with lump crab meat for a luxurious seafood alternative that’s equally irresistible.
Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños directly into the burger mix for an extra layer of heat that pairs wonderfully with guacamole.
Herb Boost: Swap cilantro for fresh dill or basil to give a whole new flavor profile that excites the taste buds.
Whole Grain: Use whole-grain bread crumbs instead of traditional breadcrumbs for added nutrition and a nuttier taste.
Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika into the patty mix for a rich, deep smokiness that complements the shrimp perfectly.
Lettuce Wraps: Replace burger buns with large leafy greens, like lettuce or collard greens, for a low-carb option that’s still satisfying.
Avocado Twist: Mix in diced avocado into the shrimp batter for an extra creamy texture that makes every bite lush.
Tropical Vibe: Add crushed pineapple to the guacamole for a sweet tropical twist that brightens up every serving.

Feel the freedom to tailor this recipe to your liking, and enjoy the delightful flavors that emerge from your kitchen!

How to Store and Freeze Shrimp Burgers

Fridge: Store uncooked shrimp burger patties in an airtight container for up to 1 day. If already cooked, keep them in the fridge, where they last for up to 2 days.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap uncooked shrimp burger patties individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating: Reheat cooked shrimp burgers in a skillet over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until warmed through. Enjoy them with your favorite toppings for a quick meal!

Shrimp Burgers with Cilantro and Guacamole Recipe FAQs

What kind of shrimp should I use for my burgers?
Absolutely! For the best results, use raw shrimp that is peeled and deveined. You want it fresh and firm; look for shrimp that is slightly translucent and has a mild ocean scent. Avoid shrimp that has dark spots all over, as this could indicate spoilage.

How should I store leftover shrimp burgers?
Very good question! If you have leftover cooked shrimp burgers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Uncooked shrimp patties can be kept for 1 day in the refrigerator. Always let your burgers cool before sealing them in for storage to maintain texture.

Can I freeze shrimp burger patties?
Absolutely! To freeze uncooked shrimp burger patties, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. This keeps them fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then grill or sauté as usual.

How can I prevent my shrimp burgers from falling apart?
Ah, the classic burger challenge! To keep your shrimp burgers intact, make sure you mix your ingredients thoroughly so that everything binds well, and don’t skip the egg, as it’s essential for binding. Ensure the patties are compact when shaping, about 1 inch thick. If you find they’re still falling apart, you can add a bit more breadcrumbs to help hold them together.

Are shrimp burgers a good option for those with seafood allergies?
It’s important to be cautious! If you or anyone you are serving has a seafood allergy, it’s best to avoid shrimp entirely. You might try using other protein options like ground chicken or turkey, but I recommend checking with your guests first to ensure their safety.

How can I customize the toppings for my shrimp burgers?
The more, the merrier! You can definitely personalize your toppings based on preference. If you like heat, add fresh jalapeños or a spicy chipotle mayo. For a milder touch, try creamy avocado and a dollop of sour cream. Feel free to play around with other toppings too, like pickled red onions or crunchy coleslaw for added texture!