If you love appetizers that are crispy on the outside and soft, creamy, and flavorful on the inside, then these Portuguese Shrimp Croquettes will instantly become your new favorite. I adore this recipe because it combines simple pantry ingredients with rich shrimp flavor to create golden bites that are perfect for gatherings, snacks, or weekend treats. They’re crunchy, comforting, and incredibly satisfying.
Portuguese cuisine has a beautiful way of balancing seafood with warm spices, and these croquettes are a delicious example of that tradition.
Quick Facts
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Prep Time: 20 minutes
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Cooking Time: 20 minutes
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Chilling Time: 1 hour
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Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
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Servings: 18–22 croquettes
Why You’ll Love These Shrimp Croquettes
Here’s why this recipe stays on my rotation:
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Crispy outside, creamy inside
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Full of delicious shrimp flavor
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Perfect for parties or afternoon snacks
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Simple ingredients, easy method
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Can be made ahead and fried later
They taste like something from a seaside café—warm, savory, and irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Filling
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1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled & chopped
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2 tablespoons butter
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½ small onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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1 cup milk
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½ teaspoon paprika
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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Salt to taste
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2 tablespoons parsley, chopped
For Coating and Frying
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1 cup breadcrumbs
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2 eggs, beaten
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½ cup flour
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Oil for frying (vegetable or sunflower oil)
How to Make Portuguese Shrimp Croquettes
Step 1: Cook the Shrimp
Sauté chopped shrimp in a little butter until pink. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Base
In the same pan, melt remaining butter. Add onions and cook until soft.
Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Add flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
Step 3: Add Milk and Thicken
Slowly pour in milk while whisking. Cook until the mixture thickens into a soft dough-like consistency.
Step 4: Add Shrimp + Season
Return shrimp to the mixture.
Add paprika, pepper, salt, and parsley.
Mix well and cook 1–2 minutes.
Step 5: Chill the Mixture
Transfer the filling to a tray, cover, and refrigerate for 1 hour to firm up.
Step 6: Shape the Croquettes
Scoop small portions and shape into cylinders or ovals.
Step 7: Coat
Roll each croquette in flour → dip into beaten eggs → coat with breadcrumbs.
Step 8: Fry
Heat oil and fry until golden brown and crisp. Drain on paper towels.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve hot with garlic mayo
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Pair with lemon wedges
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Enjoy with spicy piri-piri dipping sauce
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Add to a tapas-style spread with olives, cheese, and bread
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Serve with a simple green salad for a light meal
These croquettes taste best when eaten fresh and warm.
Tips for Customization
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Spicy version: Add chili flakes or piri-piri seasoning.
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Cheesy twist: Stir in a handful of grated cheese into the filling.
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Lighter version: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes instead of frying.
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Add herbs: Cilantro or thyme work beautifully.
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More seafood: Add a little crab meat for an extra-rich croquette.
Nutritional Info (Approx. per croquette)
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Calories: 85
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Carbs: 8g
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Protein: 5g
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Fat: 4g
Nutritional values vary depending on frying and coating thickness.
FAQs
1. Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Yes! Chill the mixture up to 24 hours before shaping.
2. Can I freeze croquettes?
Absolutely—freeze before frying. Fry straight from frozen (add a few extra minutes).
3. My croquettes fell apart—what happened?
The filling may be too warm. Always chill it well before shaping.
4. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
Yes, but add them at the end so they don’t overcook.
5. What oil is best for frying?
Neutral oils like sunflower, vegetable, or canola.
Final Thoughts
These Portuguese Shrimp Croquettes are the kind of comfort food that never fails. Crispy, creamy, slightly smoky, and full of tender shrimp—they’re perfect for gatherings, weeknight cravings, or anytime you want something special. Try them once, and you’ll understand why they’re such a beloved Portuguese classic.
