Shrimp Cakes with Lemon Aioli

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Golden, crispy, and bursting with flavor, these Shrimp Cakes with Lemon Aioli are a seafood lover’s dream. Each bite delivers juicy shrimp, crunchy edges, and a tender, herbed interior that’s perfectly complemented by a cool, zesty aioli. This dish brings a gourmet restaurant vibe to your home kitchen, whether you’re planning a casual dinner or an elevated appetizer spread.

Perfectly seared until golden brown, these shrimp cakes are a fun twist on traditional crab cakes, but with an extra dose of boldness. The lemon aioli adds a creamy tang that balances the richness of the cakes, making them irresistible. Whether served as sliders, atop salads, or simply with a fork and that dreamy sauce—you’re in for a treat.

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What Kind of Shrimp Should I Use?

Fresh or frozen shrimp both work beautifully in this recipe. If using frozen, make sure to fully thaw and pat dry before chopping. Opt for medium to large shrimp for the best texture—they provide a meatier bite once chopped. Peeled and deveined shrimp save time, and a quick rough chop gives your cakes the right balance of texture and blend.

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Ingredients for the Shrimp Cakes with Lemon Aioli

• Shrimp: The star of the show. Provides sweet, savory seafood flavor with a juicy, tender texture.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: These ensure a light and crispy crust on the outside while keeping the inside moist.
• Egg: Acts as a binder to hold everything together.
• Mayonnaise: Adds moisture and richness.
• Dijon Mustard: A flavor booster that deepens the taste with subtle heat.
• Fresh Parsley: Brings freshness and a pop of green color.
• Green Onions: Offer a light oniony bite and bright contrast.
• Garlic Powder: Enhances the savory side of the cakes without overpowering.
• Lemon Zest & Juice: Adds brightness and pairs beautifully with the aioli.
• Salt & Pepper: To season and balance all the flavors.
• Olive Oil or Butter: For pan-frying to achieve a golden, crisp exterior.

And for the Lemon Aioli:

• Mayonnaise: Creamy base for the aioli.
• Garlic: For a punch of flavor.
• Fresh Lemon Juice: Adds tang and freshness.
• Parsley or Chives: To add color and a fresh herbal finish.

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How To Make the Shrimp Cakes with Lemon Aioli

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp Mixture

Chop the shrimp into small chunks—not too fine—you want texture. In a large bowl, combine shrimp, panko, egg, mayo, Dijon, lemon zest, green onion, garlic powder, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.

Step 2: Form the Cakes

Using your hands, scoop about 2 tablespoons of mixture and shape into small patties. You should get around 8-10 cakes. Place them on a plate and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to help them firm up.

Step 3: Pan-Fry to Perfection

Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the shrimp cakes in batches, about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Don’t overcrowd the pan.

Step 4: Make the Lemon Aioli

In a small bowl, whisk together mayo, minced garlic, lemon juice, and chopped parsley or chives. Adjust salt or lemon to taste.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the hot shrimp cakes over a generous smear of lemon aioli, with extra on the side for dipping.

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How to Serve and Store Shrimp Cakes with Lemon Aioli

Shrimp cakes are best served hot and fresh, right out of the pan. That’s when the edges are crispiest and the centers tender. If you’re serving a crowd, keep them warm in a low oven (about 200°F) until ready.

For leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet to revive that crispness, or pop them in an air fryer for a quicker option. The aioli can be stored separately for up to a week.

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What to Serve With Shrimp Cakes with Lemon Aioli?

Roasted Rosemary Sweet Potatoes

Their natural sweetness and crisp edges pair wonderfully with the citrusy aioli.

California Spaghetti Salad

A bright, chilled pasta salad balances the warm shrimp cakes.

Cajun Shrimp with Garlic Butter Sauce

If you’re all in for shrimp night, go big with this buttery, spicy sidekick.

Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup

Comforting and hearty, this soup rounds out the shrimp cakes for a filling meal.

Parmesan Baked Potatoes

Crispy and cheesy, these potatoes add comfort and crunch to your plate.

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Want More Seafood Ideas?

If you love these shrimp cakes, you’ll want to dive into these other seafood favorites:

• Cajun Shrimp with Garlic Butter Sauce for extra spice and indulgence.
• Shrimp Butter Spread Recipe to elevate your next appetizer board.
• Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta for a rich, island-inspired dinner.
• Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado Corn Salsa when you’re craving light but flavorful.
• Olive Garden Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara for that creamy Italian classic at home.

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Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe a touch of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen.com on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

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