Shrimp Balls in Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe
Get ready to wow your taste buds and your dinner guests with Shrimp Balls in Garlic Butter Sauce, a dish that’s equal parts elegant and comforting. These savory little seafood bites are packed with juicy shrimp, aromatic green onions, and a whisper of soy and sesame, all crowned with a glossy, irresistible garlic butter drizzle. Whether you’re serving these as a spectacular appetizer or making them the star of your meal atop a bowl of rice or noodles, Shrimp Balls in Garlic Butter Sauce is that feel-good recipe you’ll want to serve again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Shrimp Balls in Garlic Butter Sauce lies in the simplicity of its ingredients—each one plays an important role in flavor or texture. From the sweetness of shrimp to the freshness of green onions and richness of real butter, quality is key to making this dish unforgettable.
- Raw shrimp (1 pound, peeled, deveined, finely chopped): The star ingredient, providing that natural seafood sweetness and signature bouncy texture.
- Egg (1): Acts as a binder, bringing all the elements together for perfectly cohesive shrimp balls.
- Panko breadcrumbs (1/4 cup): These ensure a lighter, crisp bite and help soak up all the tasty juices.
- Green onions (2, finely chopped): Add freshness, crunch, and a pop of color that makes each bite extra lively.
- Garlic cloves (2, minced): Bring sharp, aromatic undertones that pair beautifully with shrimp.
- Soy sauce (1 tablespoon): Provides crucial umami depth and a touch of saltiness.
- Sesame oil (1 teaspoon): Just a drizzle infuses warm, toasty notes and that classic Asian-inspired flair.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances and enhances all the other flavors—don’t skip it!
- White pepper (1/4 teaspoon): More subtle than black pepper but with a gentle heat that won’t overpower the shrimp.
- Oil for pan-frying: Use a neutral oil like vegetable or canola for golden, crispy results without overpowering the delicate flavors.
- Unsalted butter (3 tablespoons): Gives the sauce its silky richness; unsalted means you can control the saltiness.
- Garlic cloves (3, minced for the sauce): Loads the butter with garlicky goodness that soaks right into the shrimp balls.
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Brightens and balances the sauce with a splash of acidity.
- Chopped parsley (1 tablespoon): Brings a pop of color and herby freshness to the final dish.
- Pinch of salt (for the sauce): Just enough to heighten the flavors in that buttery drizzle.
How to Make Shrimp Balls in Garlic Butter Sauce
Step 1: Mix the Shrimp Ball Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine your finely chopped shrimp, egg, panko breadcrumbs, green onions, minced garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and white pepper. Stir everything together with a spatula or your hands until the mixture is well combined and just a little sticky. This even blend ensures each shrimp ball has the perfect balance of flavor in every bite.
Step 2: Shape and Chill the Shrimp Balls
Scoop out about a tablespoon of the mixture at a time and gently roll it between your palms to form small, firm shrimp balls. Place each one on a parchment-lined tray or plate. Once you’ve shaped all the balls, slide the tray into the fridge and chill them for 15 to 20 minutes. This quick rest helps the shrimp balls firm up so they’ll hold their shape when you cook them.
Step 3: Pan-Fry to Golden Perfection
Set a skillet over medium heat and pour in just enough oil to coat the bottom. Once the oil shimmers, add your chilled shrimp balls in batches (don’t overcrowd the pan!). Fry for 2 to 3 minutes per side, turning gently until they are golden brown and cooked through. When done, transfer the cooked shrimp balls to a plate lined with paper towels to drain off excess oil.
Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce
In a small saucepan, melt your unsalted butter over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly so the garlic softens and the kitchen fills with its fragrant aroma. Turn off the heat, then quickly stir in the lemon juice, chopped parsley, and a generous pinch of salt. This sauce is liquid gold—pour it over the shrimp balls straight away!
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Arrange your golden shrimp balls on a serving plate or in a shallow bowl. Pour the warm garlic butter sauce over the top and make sure every shrimp ball is kissed with that buttery goodness. Serve immediately while they’re still piping hot and the flavors are at their most vibrant.
How to Serve Shrimp Balls in Garlic Butter Sauce
Garnishes
A sprinkling of extra chopped parsley instantly makes Shrimp Balls in Garlic Butter Sauce look restaurant-ready. For a hint of heat, try a dash of chili flakes. A few lemon wedges on the side let guests customize the zing to their tastes, while a light scattering of finely sliced green onions adds a bit more crunch and color.
Side Dishes
These shrimp balls shine alongside steamed rice or buttery garlic noodles—perfect for sopping up any remaining sauce. A simple cucumber salad or lightly sautéed greens balances out the rich flavors, while a crisp white wine or chilled sparkling water rounds out the meal beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
From party platters to bistro-style bowls, get playful with presentation! Thread cooked shrimp balls onto skewers for an elegant appetizer, or nestle them into lettuce cups as a light, hand-held bite. Don’t be afraid to serve Shrimp Balls in Garlic Butter Sauce over rice or even inside a warm baguette for a clever seafood sandwich.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Shrimp Balls in Garlic Butter Sauce can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store the sauce separately if possible to maintain the shrimp balls’ crispness, drizzling it over just before reheating.
Freezing
Want to prep ahead? After shaping the raw shrimp balls, arrange them on a tray and freeze until firm. Transfer the frozen balls to a zip-top bag, storing them for up to 2 months. Cook directly from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the fry time. For the sauce, it’s best made fresh but you can freeze leftovers in an ice cube tray for quick flavor boosts.
Reheating
To reheat shrimp balls, pop them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8 to 10 minutes or warm gently in a skillet to restore their crisp exterior. Gently reheat the garlic butter sauce in a saucepan or microwave, then pour over hot shrimp balls for best results.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
For the best texture and flavor, raw shrimp is the way to go—it binds beautifully and gives that characteristic springiness. Pre-cooked shrimp won’t hold together as well and may turn rubbery after frying.
Is there a gluten-free option for Shrimp Balls in Garlic Butter Sauce?
Absolutely! Swap the panko breadcrumbs for your favorite gluten-free alternative or even crushed rice crackers. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, just be sure your soy sauce is as well.
Can Shrimp Balls in Garlic Butter Sauce be baked instead of fried?
Yes, you can bake them! Place the chilled shrimp balls on a lined baking sheet, spritz with a little oil, then bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12 to 15 minutes, turning once for even browning. They’ll be slightly less crispy but still delicious.
What can I use instead of parsley in the garlic butter sauce?
If you’re out of parsley, try finely chopped cilantro for a fresh twist, or chives for a mild onion flavor. Even a touch of basil or dill can be lovely with these shrimp balls.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
You sure can! Simply swap the butter with your favorite plant-based alternative. The result is still savory, rich, and perfect for anyone avoiding dairy.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a dish that brings together fun, flavor, and that little touch of luxury, Shrimp Balls in Garlic Butter Sauce is definitely the one to try next. Whether you’re new to making shrimp balls or a seasoned seafood fan, these bites are sure to delight. Don’t wait—gather your ingredients, invite some friends, and share the joy of Shrimp Balls in Garlic Butter Sauce at your next meal!
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Shrimp Balls in Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These delectable shrimp balls in a flavorful garlic butter sauce are a perfect blend of crunchy exteriors and tender, juicy shrimp inside. A delightful appetizer or main dish, they are easy to make and bursting with savory Asian-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp Balls:
- 1 pound raw shrimp (peeled, deveined, finely chopped)
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 green onions (finely chopped)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
- Oil for pan-frying
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp Balls: In a bowl, mix together chopped shrimp, egg, panko, green onions, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and white pepper. Form the mixture into small balls and chill in the fridge.
- Cook the Shrimp Balls: Pan-fry the shrimp balls until golden and cooked through.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: Melt butter, sauté garlic, then add lemon juice, parsley, and salt. Pour over the cooked shrimp balls.
Notes
- These shrimp balls are versatile and can be served as an appetizer or as a main dish over rice or noodles.
- For a lighter option, you can air-fry or bake the shrimp balls instead of pan-frying them.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Pan-Frying
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4–5 shrimp balls
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
