Crispy Cheesy Garlic Shrimp Bombs – Crunchy, Melty Appetizer

Crispy Cheesy Garlic Shrimp Bombs are the ultimate appetizer when you want something crunchy on the outside and irresistibly melty on the inside. Each shrimp is stuffed with mozzarella cheese, coated in a seasoned Parmesan breadcrumb crust, and cooked until golden and crisp.

These shrimp bombs are perfect for parties, game nights, or as a bold starter before dinner. They deliver restaurant-quality flavor with surprisingly simple ingredients and a straightforward cooking method.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy exterior with a gooey cheese center
• Quick to prepare and cook
• Perfect for frying or air frying
• Ideal for parties and crowd-friendly platters

Ingredients (Serves 4)

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled, deveined, and butterflied
• 6 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Oil for frying (or spray oil for air fryer)
• Fresh chives or parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Crispy Cheesy Garlic Shrimp Bombs

Step 1: Stuff the Shrimp

Place a small cube of mozzarella cheese inside each butterflied shrimp. Gently close the shrimp around the cheese, pressing lightly so the filling stays inside during cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating Station

Set up three shallow bowls. Add flour to the first bowl. Add beaten eggs to the second bowl. In the third bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.

Step 3: Coat the Shrimp

Dredge each stuffed shrimp in flour, shaking off excess. Dip into the beaten eggs, then press firmly into the breadcrumb mixture to fully coat. This creates a thick, crunchy shell.

Step 4: Cook Until Golden

For frying: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp.

For air frying: Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray shrimp with oil and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and cooked through.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Transfer shrimp bombs to a paper towel-lined plate. Garnish with fresh chives or parsley and serve hot while the cheese is still melted inside.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with marinara sauce, garlic aioli, or sweet chili sauce
• Pair with a fresh green salad for balance
• Perfect as a starter or finger food platter

Tips for Best Results

• Use low-moisture mozzarella to prevent cheese leakage
• Press breadcrumbs firmly for extra crunch
• Do not overcrowd the pan or air fryer
• Serve immediately for best texture and cheese pull

Nutrition Information (Approximate)

• Calories: 460 per serving
• Protein: 32g per serving
• Servings: 4

Final Thoughts

Crispy Cheesy Garlic Shrimp Bombs are everything you want in an appetizer: crunchy, cheesy, savory, and incredibly satisfying. Whether fried or air fried, they bring bold flavor and texture that guests will keep reaching for. Once you serve these, they will quickly become a repeat favorite.