When my friends come over for game night, there’s always a buzz of excitement in the air—and it usually centers around the food. This time, I wanted something that would tantalize our taste buds without keeping me in the kitchen all night. Enter my crispy Shrimp and Cream Cheese Wontons.
As soon as you bite into these little delights, the crunch gives way to a warm, creamy filling that perfectly balances the sweet shrimp and rich cream cheese, all mingling with a hint of garlic. You won’t believe how quickly they come together—just 30 minutes from start to finish, making them an irresistible option for any casual gathering or a satisfying evening snack.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or someone looking to elevate your weeknight meals, these wontons are an easy and delicious distraction from the mundane. Trust me; once you serve these at your next get-together, they will vanish faster than you can say, “Who wants another?” So let’s jump into this delightful recipe that’s bound to become your new go-to!
Why Will You Love Shrimp and Cream Cheese Wontons?
Quick Preparation: In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a batch of these crispy delights, perfect for unexpected guests or late-night cravings.
Irresistible Flavor: The symphony of flavors from sweet shrimp, creamy cheese, and savory garlic will leave your palate dancing.
Versatile Treat: Great for any occasion—be it a game night, festive party, or simple snack—these wontons will please any crowd.
Easy to Customize: Add your twist with spicy sriracha for heat or fresh herbs for zing, making each batch uniquely yours.
Satisfying Crunch: The crispy exterior delivers a delightful contrast to the warm, rich filling, ensuring every bite is a treat.
Fun to Make: Involve friends or family in the assembly process—it’s a great way to bond while cooking! Enjoy this amazing recipe and discover even more delicious options with our quick and easy snacks!
Shrimp and Cream Cheese Wonton Ingredients
For the Wontons
• Wonton Wrappers – Perfect for a crispy outer layer; if unavailable, egg roll wrappers work too!
• Cooked Shrimp – Sweet and briny; consider imitation crab for a different taste.
• Cream Cheese – Rich and creamy texture; a dairy-free alternative can be used for variations.
For the Flavoring
• Minced Garlic – Adds depth of flavor; fresh garlic yields the best results.
• Green Onions (optional) – Brightens the taste with freshness; feel free to swap with scallions if desired.
• Soy Sauce or Sesame Oil – Infuses umami; adjust according to your flavor preference.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential seasoning; don’t forget to taste and adjust as needed!
For Sealing and Frying
• Egg (for sealing) – Acts as an adhesive to keep wontons securely closed during frying.
• Vegetable Oil or Canola Oil – Ideal for frying, achieving that light, crispy finish.
These Shrimp and Cream Cheese Wontons are just waiting to become the star of your appetizer spread!
How to Make Shrimp and Cream Cheese Wontons
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Prepare Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, cooked shrimp, minced garlic, chopped green onions (if using), and a splash of soy sauce or sesame oil. Season with salt and pepper until everything is well blended.
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Assemble Wontons: Lay out the wonton wrappers on a clean surface. Place a small spoonful of the filling in the center of each wrapper. Brush the edges with beaten egg, then fold into a triangle or gather the corners to form a “money bag,” ensuring you seal tightly to remove any air pockets.
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Fry Wontons: Pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet, heating it over medium-high heat. Fry the wontons in batches until they turn golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Use a slotted spoon to safely remove them, letting them drain on paper towels.
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Serve Hot: Present your crispy wontons with an assortment of dipping sauces, such as sweet chili, soy sauce, or spicy mayo for added flavor.
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top for an elegant touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Shrimp and Cream Cheese Wontons
Room Temperature: Serve your crispy wontons fresh for the best texture; if left out, consume within 2 hours.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to regain crispiness without losing the creamy filling.
Freezer: Freeze un-fried wontons on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Fry directly from frozen, adding 2-3 minutes to cooking time.
Reheating: For warm, crispy results, reheat fried wontons in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. Enjoy your Shrimp and Cream Cheese Wontons at their best!
What to Serve with Shrimp and Cream Cheese Wontons?
Elevate your appetizer game and create a feast that dances on your palate with these delightful pairings!
- Sweet Chili Sauce: This sticky, slightly spicy sauce enhances the creaminess of the wontons, adding a sweet kick. Perfect for dipping!
- Soy Sauce with Ginger: A splash of soy sauce combined with fresh ginger brightens the flavors and adds a savory depth to each bite.
- Crispy Vegetable Spring Rolls: The crunchy texture and freshness of spring rolls create a delightful contrast, making your appetizer spread more enticing.
- Sesame Noodles: Serve these alongside for a satisfying, Asian-inspired pairing; the nuttiness complements the shrimp while offering a different texture.
- Garden Salad: Light and refreshing, a mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the wontons and adds a fresh crunch to your plate.
- Roasted Edamame: These savory, crunchy bites are a protein-packed addition that pairs well with the rich flavors of shrimp and cream cheese.
- Sparkling Water with Lime: Keep it simple and refreshing; sparkling water elevates the meal with a hint of citrus, cleansing the palate with every bite.
- Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet treat offers a luscious, creamy contrast; the flavors of mango and coconut weave together beautifully after savory bites.
- Coconut Milkshake: Rich and creamy, this shake provides a delightful indulgence while cooling down the heat from any spicy elements in your meal.
Expert Tips for Shrimp and Cream Cheese Wontons
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Filling Precision: Always fill wontons with just the right amount of filling—too much can cause them to burst while frying!
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Sealing Securely: Ensure edges are well-sealed to avoid leaks. Use the egg wash generously and press firmly to keep air out.
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Wonton Wrapper Care: Keep unused wrappers covered with a damp cloth to prevent drying out. This ensures they remain pliable for wrapping.
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Freezing Tip: Prepare and freeze wontons ahead of time. Fry them straight from frozen, adding a couple of minutes to your cooking time.
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Air Fryer Alternative: For a healthier option, lightly spray wontons with oil and air fry at 375°F for about 8-10 minutes for golden, crispy results.
Shrimp and Cream Cheese Wonton Variations
Give your cooking adventure a personal touch and delight your taste buds with these enticing options!
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Spicy Kick: Add sriracha or red pepper flakes to the filling for a fiery twist that ignites your palate. Your guests will be asking for the recipe!
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Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for a bright, aromatic flavor that elevates each bite. It’s a fresh take that feels like a garden party in your mouth.
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Crab Delight: Swap shrimp for lump crab meat for a rich, sweet flavor profile that brings a gourmet feel to your wontons. Each bite will feel like ocean luxury!
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Vegetarian Twist: Replace shrimp with finely chopped mushrooms or zucchini to create a delicious vegetarian option that’s just as satisfying. This twist proves that less can be more when done right.
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Cheesy Variation: Add a blend of cheeses, like mozzarella or cheddar, into the filling for an indulgent, melted surprise. It’s perfect for cheese lovers seeking a gooey delight.
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Sweet Encounter: Incorporate a dab of cream cheese frosting alongside the shrimp for a surprising sweet-savory combination that will keep everyone guessing. It’s dessert and appetizer all in one!
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Nutty Essence: Toss in crushed peanuts or sesame seeds to the filling for a delightful crunch and added depth of flavor. This nutty twist brings a delightful texture that’s absolutely mouthwatering.
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Smoky Flavor: Introduce smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke to the filling for a barbecue-inspired taste that adds warmth and complexity. It’s the perfect way to cozy up on chilly evenings!
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Shrimp and Cream Cheese Wontons are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling—combining softened cream cheese, shrimp, garlic, and green onions—up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Assemble the wontons and freeze them for up to 3 months, laying them flat on a baking sheet first to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy, fry them straight from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to cooking time for that restaurant-quality crunch. This way, you’ll save time during busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor!
Shrimp and Cream Cheese Wontons Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe shrimp?
When selecting shrimp, look for ones that are firm, translucent, and have a mild ocean scent. Avoid shrimp with dark spots or strong ammonia odor, as they may be past their prime.
How should I store leftover shrimp and cream cheese wontons?
Store your wontons in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to bring back their delightful crispiness.
Can I freeze shrimp and cream cheese wontons?
Absolutely! To freeze, arrange un-fried wontons on a baking sheet in a single layer until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag, where they can be stored for up to 2 months. Fry them straight from frozen, adding about 2-3 minutes to the cooking time.
My wontons are bursting while frying. What should I do?
To prevent bursting, be cautious not to overfill your wontons. Make sure to seal them tightly—press out any air pockets and ensure the edges are well-coated with egg wash to maintain a secure seal.
Are these shrimp and cream cheese wontons suitable for people with allergies?
Be mindful that this recipe contains shrimp and cream cheese, which are common allergens. For a safe alternative, consider using imitation crab or dairy-free cream cheese to accommodate different dietary needs. Always check with guests regarding their allergies before preparing.
How long can the wonton wrappers last in the fridge?
Wonton wrappers can usually last about a week in the fridge when kept sealed and unopened. Once opened, it’s best to use them within 2-3 days—keep any unused wrappers covered with a damp cloth to prevent drying out.
Crispy Shrimp and Cream Cheese Wontons in 30 Minutes Flat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, cooked shrimp, minced garlic, chopped green onions, and a splash of soy sauce or sesame oil. Season with salt and pepper until well blended.
- Assemble Wontons: Lay out the wonton wrappers. Place a small spoonful of the filling in the center of each. Brush the edges with beaten egg and fold into a triangle or gather the corners to form a 'money bag'. Seal tightly.
- Fry Wontons: Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Fry wontons in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Serve Hot: Present wontons with dipping sauces like sweet chili or soy sauce.