If you’re looking for an irresistible appetizer that combines crispy toasted bread, creamy cheese, and flavorful shrimp with just the right amount of spice, Baked Shrimp Toast is the perfect dish. Each bite is packed with bold flavors, from the Cajun-seasoned shrimp to the rich blend of melted cheeses. Whether you’re serving it at a party, as a game-day snack, or as an indulgent treat for yourself, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit.
One of the best things about shrimp toast is its versatility. You can customize the ingredients to suit your preferences, adjust the spice level, or even prepare it ahead of time for an easy, stress-free appetizer. Serve it alongside a crisp salad, a bowl of soup, or with a dipping sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make – Quick prep and simple ingredients make this an ideal appetizer.
- Bursting with Flavor – Cajun seasoning adds the perfect kick, balanced by the creamy cheese.
- Perfect for Entertaining – Great for parties, family gatherings, or casual dinners.
- Crunchy & Creamy – Toasted bread adds a satisfying crunch to the rich shrimp topping.
What to Serve with Baked Shrimp Toast
This shrimp toast pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and dips:
- Classic Cocktail Sauce – A tangy dip that enhances the shrimp’s flavor.
- Garlic Aioli – Creamy and garlicky, perfect for dipping.
- Fresh Salad – A light arugula or mixed greens salad balances the richness.
- Soup Pairing – Serve alongside a bowl of tomato bisque or clam chowder for a cozy meal.
- Roasted Vegetables – A side of asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini adds extra nutrition.
Baked Shrimp Toast Recipe
Servings: 12 toasts
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
For the Shrimp Toast:
- 1 small French baguette, cut into ½-inch thick slices
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled, deveined, and minced
- ½ small onion, finely chopped
- 1 stalk celery, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼-½ teaspoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 4 ounces cream cheese, cut into small cubes
- ¼ cup shaved Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup shaved Fontina cheese
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for extra spice)
- 1 green onion, thinly sliced for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Toast the Bread
- Preheat the broiler to low. Arrange the baguette slices in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Place under the broiler for 3-5 minutes, or until the tops are lightly golden.
- Flip the slices and broil the other side for another 3-5 minutes until evenly toasted. Remove from the oven and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp Mixture
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the minced shrimp, chopped onion, and celery. Cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently.
- Add the minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, and black pepper. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly.
- Reduce the heat to low and add the cream cheese, Parmesan, and Fontina.
- Stir continuously until the cheeses are almost fully melted and well incorporated. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 3: Assemble the Toasts
- Evenly spread the shrimp mixture over the toasted baguette slices.
- Sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick, if desired.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the topped bread slices back onto the baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle with thinly sliced green onions for a fresh finishing touch.
Recipe Tips & Variations
- Control the Spice Level – Use more or less Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes based on your preference.
- Make It Extra Cheesy – Add a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella for an extra gooey texture.
- Use Good-Quality Shrimp – Fresh or wild-caught shrimp enhances the flavor. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them thoroughly before cooking.
- Toast Carefully – Broilers can be unpredictable, so keep a close eye on the bread to prevent burning.
- Try Different Breads – Use ciabatta, sourdough, or even mini pita rounds for a unique twist.
- Add Fresh Herbs – Chopped parsley or chives make a great garnish for added freshness.
How to Store & Reheat
- Refrigerate: Store leftover shrimp toast in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Freeze: You can freeze the shrimp mixture separately and assemble fresh toasts when needed.
- Reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread soggy.
How to Prepare Shrimp for Cooking
- Peeling the Shrimp: Grab the legs and pull gently to remove the shell.
- Deveining: Make a shallow cut down the back of the shrimp and remove the dark vein under cold running water.
- Chopping: Use a sharp knife to mince the shrimp finely for even distribution in the mixture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the shrimp mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, spread it onto toasted bread and bake as directed.
Can I Use Pre-Cooked Shrimp?
While fresh shrimp works best, you can use pre-cooked shrimp. Just chop them finely and sauté them briefly with the onions and celery to help infuse the flavors.
What Other Cheeses Can I Use?
If you don’t have Fontina, try using Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or white cheddar. Each cheese brings a slightly different flavor and texture to the dish.
Nutrition Information (Per Toast)
- Calories: 143 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Protein: 13g
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 299mg
- Fiber: 1g
Final Thoughts
This Baked Shrimp Toast is an elegant yet easy-to-make appetizer that delivers bold flavors and a satisfying crunch. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion, a casual gathering, or simply treating yourself to something delicious, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress.
Give it a try and let me know how it turns out. Enjoy! In the facebook post.