Easy Shrimp Cakes with Lemon Aioli

Name: Easy Shrimp Cakes with Lemon Aioli
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup green onions, chopped; 1 egg, beaten; 1 tablespoon mayo; 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Vegetable oil for frying; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 1 garlic clove, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Elevate your dinner game with these Easy Shrimp Cakes paired with a zesty Lemon Aioli. Perfectly seasoned and pan-fried to golden perfection, these shrimp cakes are a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will impress your family and friends. Quick to prepare and served with a refreshing dipping sauce, this recipe makes for a quick weeknight meal or a fabulous appetizer for your next gathering.

Created by

Maya Richardson

Last updated on 2025-12-13T09:53:09.817Z

The Perfect Quick Meal

In today’s fast-paced world, finding a meal that’s both quick to prepare and delicious can be a challenge. These Easy Shrimp Cakes with Lemon Aioli bring together the best of both worlds. With only a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a wholesome dinner on the table in under 30 minutes. This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something satisfying that doesn’t require extensive cooking skills.

The shrimp cakes are not only quick to make, but they are also versatile. Feel free to adjust the ingredients to suit your preference or whatever you have on hand. Want a spicier kick? Add in some chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. Looking to sneak in some veggies? Finely diced bell peppers or carrots can easily be mixed in. These cakes can adapt to your taste, making them a staple in your recipe repertoire.

Cooking Tips for Success

While the recipe is straightforward, there are a few tips to ensure your shrimp cakes turn out perfectly every time. Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture, and make sure they are well-drained after peeling and deveining. When pulsing the shrimp in the food processor, aim for a coarse chop—too fine, and you’ll lose that delightful texture that makes these cakes so appealing.

Another important factor is the frying process. Make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the cakes; this helps to achieve that golden crust. If your cakes are browning too quickly, lower the heat slightly to prevent burning. Lastly, do not overcrowd the pan; give each cake enough room to cook evenly for the best results.

Serving Suggestions

These shrimp cakes are fantastic on their own with the zesty lemon aioli, but you can elevate your presentation by serving them with a fresh salad or a side of steamed vegetables. A light cucumber or avocado salad pairs beautifully, enhancing the dish's fresh and vibrant flavors. You can also serve the cakes as a fun appetizer for gatherings—just stack them on a platter and serve with toothpicks for easy eating.

For a complete meal experience, try serving the shrimp cakes in a taco style. Place them in soft tortillas, topped with slaw and additional aioli, offering a fun twist that your guests will love. This versatility makes the shrimp cakes a wonderful option for both weeknight dinners and entertaining.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp Cakes

1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
1 egg, beaten
1 tablespoon mayo
1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetable oil for frying

For the Lemon Aioli

1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 garlic clove, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

How to Make Shrimp Cakes

Prepare the Shrimp Cakes

In a food processor, pulse the shrimp until coarsely chopped. In a mixing bowl, combine chopped shrimp, breadcrumbs, green onions, beaten egg, mayo, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Form the mixture into patties.

Cook the Cakes

Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the shrimp cakes for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.

Make the Lemon Aioli

In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.

Serve and Enjoy

Nutritional Benefits of Shrimp

Shrimp is not just a delicious seafood option; it also comes packed with numerous health benefits. It is a low-calorie protein source, making it a great choice for those looking to maintain a healthy weight while enjoying flavorful dishes. Rich in essential nutrients like selenium and vitamin B12, shrimp can contribute to overall health, supporting immune function and energy levels.

Moreover, shrimp contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. Incorporating shrimp into your diet can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. Pairing them with wholesome ingredients found in this shrimp cake recipe ensures you not only enjoy a tasty meal but also nourish your body.

Customizing the Lemon Aioli

The lemon aioli is what truly sets this recipe apart. It’s easy to customize so you can create a dipping sauce that matches your taste. If you love spice, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a kick. Fresh herbs like dill or parsley can also bring a refreshing twist.

For a creamier texture, substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. This not only lightens the sauce but also adds a tangy flavor that complements the shrimp cakes beautifully. Experimenting with different flavors in the aioli keeps this dish exciting and can easily transform it from a weeknight meal into something special for gatherings.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, you can easily store the shrimp cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in a pan over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until warmed through. This method helps retain their texture and prevents them from becoming soggy compared to using a microwave.

For longer storage, you can freeze the uncooked shrimp cakes before frying them. To do this, arrange the formed patties on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to cook them, you can fry straight from the freezer, just be sure to extend the cooking time by a few minutes. This makes it easy to have a quick and delicious meal whenever the craving hits.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain them well before using.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.