The sizzling sound of shrimp patties on the grill brings back memories of sun-soaked summer evenings. This recipe for Shrimp Burgers with Cilantro and Guacamole is truly a game-changer, perfect for those busy weeknights when takeout just won’t do. In just under 30 minutes, you’ll whip up juicy, flavorful burgers that taste like a gourmet seaside retreat. The crispy outside and tender shrimp interior are beautifully complemented by a creamy guacamole that adds a delightful freshness. Not only are these burgers quick to make, but they also cater to gluten-free diets—just switch out the buns! Whether you’re hosting friends for a backyard barbecue or looking for a family-friendly meal that’s anything but boring, these shrimp burgers are sure to impress. What’s better than a delicious seafood dish during those warm summer nights? Let’s dive into this tasty adventure!

Why Are Shrimp Burgers a Must-Try?

Simplicity in Preparation: These shrimp burgers come together quickly, needing less than 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests!

Fresh Ingredients: The combination of juicy shrimp with zesty cilantro and creamy guacamole delivers a burst of freshness in every bite.

Versatile Flavor: Feel free to customize your burgers! Swap in crab or add spices for a personalized touch.

Perfect for Grilling: Ideal for summer cookouts, they provide a gourmet experience without the fuss of traditional seafood dishes.

Healthy and Delicious: Packed with protein and healthy fats, these burgers make for a satisfying meal everyone will love!

Pair them with sweet potato fries or a crisp salad for a complete feast that’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering!

Shrimp Burger Ingredients

• Dive into the world of delicious Shrimp Burgers with Cilantro and Guacamole!

For the Burger Patties

Raw Shrimp – Main protein; provides a sweet and briny flavor. Use fresh or frozen shrimp for best results.
Breadcrumbs – Adds structure and helps bind the shrimp patties. Substitute with gluten-free breadcrumbs if necessary.
Fresh Cilantro – Enhances freshness and aroma; complements the shrimp. Substitute with parsley for a different flavor.
Garlic – Adds depth and savory aroma. Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
Ground Cumin – Provides warm, earthy notes; essential for flavor complexity. No direct substitute, but coriander could be used.
Paprika – Adds a subtle smoky flavor and color. Swap with cayenne for added heat, if desired.
Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.
Large Egg – Binds the ingredients together. Can substitute with a flax egg for a vegan option.
Lime Juice – Brightens flavors; adds acidity. Key for ensuring freshness in guacamole.

For the Guacamole

Avocado – Base for guacamole; creamy texture. Use ripe avocados for optimal results.
Red Onion – Adds crunch and sharpness to the guacamole. Substitute with green onions for a milder flavor.
Jalapeño (optional) – Adds heat to the guacamole; adjust according to heat preference.

For Assembly

Burger Buns – The vessel for the shrimp burger. Choose whole grain or gluten-free buns based on dietary needs.
Lettuce and Tomato – Adds freshness and texture; optional toppings.

These ingredients promise to create a meal that’s bursting with flavor and utterly satisfying!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Shrimp Burgers with Cilantro and Guacamole

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Start by pulsing the raw shrimp in a food processor until they are coarsely chopped, achieving a chunky texture. This step should take about 30 seconds; be careful not to over-process. Once done, transfer the chopped shrimp to a mixing bowl, where the magic of flavor begins.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In the mixing bowl with the shrimp, add breadcrumbs, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, ground cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, a beaten egg, and lime juice. Mix everything together gently until just combined; this should take about 1-2 minutes. Avoid overmixing to keep the shrimp burgers tender.

Step 3: Form the Patties
With clean hands, divide the mixture into equal portions and shape them into 1-inch thick burger patties. You should have about 4-6 patties, depending on the size. Place each patty on a plate or cutting board, ensuring they are evenly shaped and not sticking together; this helps them cook evenly later.

Step 4: Heat the Cooking Surface
Preheat your grill or a skillet over medium heat, and lightly grease the surface with cooking oil to prevent sticking. This should take about 5 minutes. The ideal cooking temperature will allow the shrimp burgers to sizzle and brown beautifully, giving them a delicious crispy exterior.

Step 5: Cook the Patties
Carefully place the formed shrimp patties onto the heated grill or skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes on one side until they are golden brown and slightly firm to the touch. Flip the patties and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes on the other side, ensuring they are cooked through and opaque.

Step 6: Prepare the Guacamole
While the shrimp burgers are cooking, mash the ripe avocado in a mixing bowl using a fork or potato masher until smooth. Add finely chopped red onion, diced jalapeño (if using), salt, and lime juice, mixing until well blended and creamy. This refreshing guacamole complements the shrimp burgers perfectly.

Step 7: Assemble the Burgers
If desired, toast the burger buns on the grill for a minute until they are slightly crispy. Place a shrimp patty on the bottom half of each bun, generously topping it with a scoop of guacamole. The contrast of flavors will elevate your shrimp burgers with cilantro and guacamole.

Step 8: Add Toppings
Feel free to add fresh lettuce and tomato slices to each burger for an extra crunch and flavor burst. You can also customize with additional toppings of your choice, such as sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce, to suit your taste preferences.

Step 9: Serve Immediately
These shrimp burgers with cilantro and guacamole are best enjoyed immediately while they are still warm. Serve them alongside sweet potato fries or a refreshing salad for a complete meal that everyone will love, highlighting that wonderful seafood flavor and fresh ingredients.

Make Ahead Options

These Shrimp Burgers with Cilantro and Guacamole are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the shrimp mixture and form the patties up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the chopped shrimp, breadcrumbs, cilantro, garlic, spices, egg, and lime juice, then shape them into patties and refrigerate (cover tightly to maintain freshness). The guacamole can also be made up to 3 days in advance; just be sure to press plastic wrap onto the surface to prevent browning. When it’s time to serve, cook the patties as instructed and top them with the freshly made guacamole for that restaurant-quality experience with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Shrimp Burgers with Cilantro and Guacamole

Elevate your dining experience by pairing these mouthwatering shrimp burgers with delightful sides that enhance their fresh flavors.

Sweet Potato Fries: A crispy and slightly sweet contrast, these fries add a satisfying crunch while balancing the savory shrimp patties.
Crisp Green Salad: Toss together fresh greens, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing, palate-cleansing side that complements the rich guacamole beautifully.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled, the naturally sweet corn adds a pop of color and a burst of summer flavor, making it a great accompaniment to seafood.
Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw brings a crunch and tang that harmonizes with the flavors of the shrimp burgers, creating a well-rounded meal.
Chips and Salsa: Light and zesty, chips and salsa provide a fun and casual addition that invites sharing and laughter around the table.
Lemonade or Iced Tea: A chilled glass of lemonade or refreshing iced tea serves as the perfect beverage, enhancing the overall experience with a bright, citrusy contrast.

Expert Tips for Shrimp Burgers

Fresh Shrimp Matters: Ensure the shrimp is fresh and properly deveined to achieve the best flavor and texture in your burgers.

Avoid Overmixing: Mixing the shrimp mixture too much can lead to tough patties. Stir gently until just combined for maximum tenderness.

Cooking Time: Carefully watch the cooking time; shrimp patties should be opaque and firm to the touch but not overcooked.

Don’t Skip the Guac: The creamy guacamole adds essential freshness. Use ripe avocados for the best flavor and texture in your shrimp burgers with cilantro and guacamole.

Customize Your Burger: Feel free to swap shrimp with crab meat or add different spices for a unique twist; the possibilities are endless!

Shrimp Burgers with Cilantro and Guacamole Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine with these delightful twists for your shrimp burgers, enhancing flavors and textures!

Crab Delight: Substitute shrimp with crab meat for a sweet, tender alternative that adds a gourmet touch to your burgers.
Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the shrimp mixture for an extra layer of heat that packs a flavorful punch.
Herb Swap: If cilantro isn’t your favorite, try fresh parsley or dill for a different herbal note while keeping the freshness intact.
Vegan Version: Replace the shrimp with a combination of canned chickpeas and chopped vegetables, and swap the egg with a flax egg for a plant-based delight.
Zesty Twist: Mix in some lime zest with your patty mixture to amplify the citrus flavor, creating a refreshing burst in every bite.
Gourmet Aioli: Top your burgers with a homemade spicy aioli, made with mayo, garlic, and your favorite hot sauce, for a creamy and flavorful alternative to guacamole.
Sweet and Savory: Add a slice of grilled pineapple on top for a unique blend of sweet and savory flavors that will dance on your taste buds.
Mediterranean Style: Incorporate feta cheese and olives into the guacamole for a Mediterranean twist that’s rich and satisfying. Serve alongside tasty stuffed grape leaves!

Experimenting with these variations can take your shrimp burgers from delicious to unforgettable. If you love experimenting with seafood dishes, why not pair your burgers with some crispy Cajun Shrimp Sauce or try out mouthwatering Crack Burgers as well! Enjoy the delicious adventure!

Storage Tips for Shrimp Burgers with Cilantro and Guacamole

Fridge: Store any leftover cooked shrimp burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to retain their crispy texture.

Freezer: If you want to keep shrimp burgers longer, freeze uncooked patties separated by parchment paper in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Cook them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Reheating: For best results, reheat leftover cooked burgers in a skillet to crisp up the exterior. Avoid the microwave as it can make them soggy.

Thawing: Consider thawing frozen shrimp burgers in the fridge overnight before cooking; this ensures even cooking and delicious results.

Shrimp Burgers with Cilantro and Guacamole Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, opt for fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp. Look for shrimp that smell like the ocean—fresh and briny. Avoid any shrimp that has a strong fishy odor, and be sure the shells are intact and firm. If using frozen shrimp, ensure it’s properly thawed and deveined before starting your patties.

What’s the best way to store leftover shrimp burgers?
Very good question! Store any leftover shrimp burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, a skillet over medium heat works best, allowing the burgers to regain their crispy texture while warming them through. Microwaving can lead to sogginess and isn’t recommended for this dish.

Can I freeze shrimp burgers for later?
Absolutely! To freeze uncooked shrimp burgers, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze them until solid. Once firm, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be kept frozen for up to 3 months. Cook them directly from frozen, adding an extra 2-3 minutes of cooking time for the best results.

What if my shrimp mixture feels too wet?
Don’t worry—this can happen! If your shrimp mixture is too wet to hold together, you can add a bit of additional breadcrumbs, a tablespoon at a time, until you achieve the right consistency. You want the mixture to hold together well without being overly dry. Remember to handle it gently; overmixing can result in tough patties.

Are shrimp burgers safe for those with shellfish allergies?
It’s important to note that this recipe is not safe for individuals with shellfish allergies. However, if you’re looking for a seafood alternative, you might consider using a fish like salmon that can be cooked in a similar way. Be sure to check for allergies related to other ingredients like gluten in the buns and breadcrumbs as well!

Can I make these shrimp burgers gluten-free?
Yes, and it’s easy! Simply swap regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your burger buns are gluten-free as well. This way, you can enjoy all the delicious flavors of shrimp burgers with cilantro and guacamole without any dietary concerns!