If you’re on the hunt for a standout appetizer that feels both indulgent and approachable, this Baked Shrimp Toast Recipe will become your new favorite. Golden, crispy baguette slices topped with a luscious blend of minced shrimp, cream cheese, and a touch of Cajun spice create a perfect harmony of textures and flavors. Every bite offers a delightful crunch followed by a rich, savory shrimp mixture that simply melts in your mouth. Whether you’re entertaining guests or craving something special for a cozy night in, this recipe delivers that wow factor without any fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, quality ingredients is the secret to making this Baked Shrimp Toast Recipe shine. Each component plays a vital role: the bread provides crunch, the shrimp adds fresh seafood sweetness, and the cheeses bring creaminess and depth of flavor.
- French baguette slices: The foundation that offers a crisp, sturdy base perfect for holding the shrimp mixture without getting soggy.
- Olive oil: Used to lightly brush the bread for a golden toast and subtle fruity aroma.
- Minced shrimp: The star protein, offering sweet, tender bites with a firm texture when cooked.
- Finely chopped onion: Adds subtle pungency and moisture that enhances the shrimp’s natural flavors.
- Celery: Provides a fresh crunch and bright contrast to the creamy topping.
- Minced garlic: A must for that savory, aromatic backbone.
- Cajun seasoning: Injects just the right amount of spicy warmth without overpowering the delicate seafood taste.
- Freshly cracked black pepper: For subtle heat and complexity.
- Cream cheese cubes: The creamy binder that softens the shrimp mixture and makes it irresistibly smooth.
- Shaved Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty finish that crisps beautifully when baked.
- Shaved Fontina cheese: Melts effortlessly, contributing a mild, buttery richness.
- Kosher salt: Enhances and balances all the flavors.
- Crushed red pepper flakes: To sprinkle on top for a lively kick and visual appeal.
- Thinly sliced green onion: Offers freshness and a pop of color as a final touch.
How to Make Baked Shrimp Toast Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Toasted Baguette Base
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) — this ensures the bread crisps up quickly and evenly. Arrange the ½-inch thick baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush both sides with olive oil. Toast them for 5 to 7 minutes until they reach a lovely golden color. This step is key because it creates the crunchy texture you’ll love when combined with the creamy shrimp topping.
Step 2: Mix the Shrimp Filling
In a bowl, combine the minced shrimp with finely chopped onion, celery, and garlic. Sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning and freshly cracked black pepper, then season with kosher salt to taste. This flavorful mix is bursting with fresh, aromatic notes, laying the foundation for the deliciousness ahead.
Step 3: Add Cream Cheese and Fold Gently
Drop in small cubes of cream cheese to the shrimp mixture and fold it gently, allowing the cheese to blend without overworking. The cream cheese is the element that transforms the mix into a luscious, creamy topping that holds beautifully without becoming soggy or greasy.
Step 4: Top the Toasted Bread
Spread the shrimp and cream cheese mixture evenly and generously over each toasted baguette slice. This step invites you to get generous because the flavor and texture depend on a good, even layer. Don’t be shy — every bite should taste like seafood heaven.
Step 5: Add Cheeses and Bake
Sprinkle the shaved Parmesan and Fontina cheeses on top of the shrimp mixture. These cheeses melt into gooey, flavorful blankets that complement the shrimp’s delicate texture perfectly. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until the cheese bubbles and turns lightly golden, and the shrimp mixture is cooked through.
Step 6: Final Touches Before Serving
Once out of the oven, sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes and thinly sliced green onions over the toasts. This final flourish adds a pinch of heat and a burst of fresh color, making your Baked Shrimp Toast Recipe not only tasty but visually inviting.
How to Serve Baked Shrimp Toast Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes elevate the shrimp toasts even further. A sprinkle of green onions adds crispness and a mild onion flavor, while crushed red pepper flakes bring a subtle heat that contrasts perfectly with the creamy cheeses. For an extra touch, a little fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the dish wonderfully.
Side Dishes
Pair your shrimp toast with simple sides such as a crisp green salad or a light cucumber and tomato salad dressed in vinaigrette to balance richness with freshness. Pickled vegetables also work well, cutting through the creamy, cheesy topping and cleansing the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Baked Shrimp Toast Recipe on a wooden platter lined with parchment paper for a rustic look that invites casual sharing. Alternatively, arrange the toasts on a large serving board garnished with fresh herbs and lemon wedges, turning it into an elegant appetizer centerpiece that will impress at any gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the baked shrimp toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should be consumed within 2 days to enjoy the best texture and flavor. Keep in mind that the bread may soften slightly, but reheating can help regain some crispiness.
Freezing
While freezing is an option, it’s best to freeze the shrimp mixture before assembling the toasts to preserve freshness. Spread the mixture in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to one month. Freeze the baguette slices separately to maintain their texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftover or prepared toasts in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8 to 10 minutes to restore their crisp exterior and warm the filling evenly. Avoid microwaving as it can make the bread soggy and the cheese rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp fully, pat them dry, and then mince. This will prevent excess moisture from making the topping too wet and will keep all the flavors concentrated.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the French baguette slices with gluten-free bread that holds up well to toasting. Just make sure to toast it thoroughly to get that perfect crunch.
Can I prepare the shrimp mixture ahead of time?
Definitely. The shrimp mixture can be prepared up to a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This makes assembly and baking quick and easy when you’re ready to serve.
What if I don’t have Fontina cheese?
No worries! You can swap Fontina for a mild melting cheese like mozzarella or Gouda, which will create a similar creamy, melty texture.
How spicy is this recipe?
The recipe has a gentle kick from the Cajun seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes, but it’s easy to adjust the spiciness to your taste. Simply reduce or omit these ingredients if you prefer a milder flavor.
Final Thoughts
Trying the Baked Shrimp Toast Recipe is like inviting comfort and elegance to your table in perfect harmony. Each crispy bite offers a luxurious blend of flavors that feel both familiar and exciting. Whether it’s a special occasion or a casual evening treat, this recipe is guaranteed to impress and satisfy. Give it a go—you might just find your new go-to appetizer that everyone will be asking for again and again!
Print
Baked Shrimp Toast Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delightfully crispy and creamy baked shrimp toast featuring a savory shrimp and cream cheese mixture spread on toasted baguette slices, topped with melted Parmesan and Fontina cheeses, and seasoned with Cajun spices and fresh herbs for a perfect appetizer or party snack.
Ingredients
Bread & Oil
- 1 small French baguette, cut into ½-inch thick slices
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Shrimp Mixture
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled, deveined, and minced
- ½ small onion, finely chopped
- 1 stalk celery, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ to ½ teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- Kosher salt, to taste
- 4 ounces cream cheese, cut into small cubes
Toppings & Garnishes
- ¼ cup shaved Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup shaved Fontina cheese
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 green onion, thinly sliced
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for toasting the bread and baking the shrimp toast.
- Toast Baguette Slices: Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush both sides lightly with olive oil. Toast in the oven for about 5 to 7 minutes until the bread is slightly golden and crisp. Remove from oven and set aside.
- Prepare Shrimp Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the minced shrimp, finely chopped onion, celery, minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, freshly cracked black pepper, and kosher salt to taste. Mix well to evenly distribute the flavors.
- Add Cream Cheese: Gently fold the cream cheese cubes into the shrimp mixture, creating a creamy and cohesive spread.
- Assemble on Baguette: Spread the shrimp and cream cheese mixture evenly over each toasted baguette slice.
- Add Cheese Toppings: Sprinkle the shaved Parmesan and Fontina cheeses evenly over the shrimp mixture on each slice.
- Bake: Place the assembled toasts back on the baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the shrimp mixture is fully cooked through.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the toasts from the oven and immediately sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes and thinly sliced green onions for a fresh, spicy finish. Serve warm.
Notes
- For a milder flavor, reduce or omit the Cajun seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes.
- Use fresh shrimp for best flavor and texture, but thawed frozen shrimp works well too.
- Ensure shrimp is finely minced to allow even distribution and easy spreading.
- To prep ahead, assemble the shrimp mixture and bread slices separately, then combine and bake just before serving.
- This recipe is perfect as a party appetizer or light snack and pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine or sparkling beverage.
