Shrimp and Cream Cheese Wontons Recipe
If you’re craving a crispy, flavorful snack with a little bit of indulgence, this Shrimp and Cream Cheese Wontons Recipe is your new best friend. These golden bites combine the delicate sweetness of shrimp with the creamy richness of cream cheese, all wrapped in perfectly fried wonton skins. They are irresistibly crunchy on the outside and silky on the inside, making them the perfect appetizer or party treat that everyone will rave about. Whether you’re making them for a casual get-together or a cozy night in, these shrimp and cream cheese wontons bring together simplicity and sophistication in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll create an unforgettable combination of textures and flavors. Each element plays a key role, from the softness of the cream cheese to the brightness of the green onions and the warmth of the ginger, making this recipe a breeze yet packed with personality.
- Cream cheese (4 ounces, softened): Provides a smooth, creamy base that balances the shrimp’s flavor perfectly.
- Cooked shrimp (1/2 cup, finely chopped): Adds bite-sized bursts of tender seafood taste.
- Green onions (2, finely sliced): Bring a fresh, mild sharpness and a pop of color.
- Soy sauce (1 teaspoon): Enhances umami depth and adds a savory punch.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Offers a gentle hint of garlicky warmth without overpowering.
- Ground ginger (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a subtle spicy brightness to the filling.
- Wonton wrappers (20–24): Essential for holding everything together with that irresistible crunchy shell.
- Water (for sealing): Helps create a perfect seal to keep your filling inside while frying.
- Vegetable oil (for frying): Must be neutral and hot enough to achieve a crisp, golden exterior.
How to Make Shrimp and Cream Cheese Wontons Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Start by mixing the softened cream cheese with finely chopped cooked shrimp, sliced green onions, soy sauce, garlic powder, and ground ginger in a medium bowl. This blend creates a rich, flavorful filling with the perfect balance of creamy and savory notes that will shine through once fried.
Step 2: Assemble the Wontons
Lay a wonton wrapper flat on a clean surface. Place about one teaspoon of the filling at the center. Dip your finger in water and lightly moisten the edges of the wrapper. Fold it into a triangle or bring all four corners together for a cute little purse shape, pressing firmly to seal each wonton completely. The water helps the wrapper stick, ensuring the filling won’t escape during frying.
Step 3: Fry Until Golden
Heat approximately two inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or saucepan over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the wontons in the hot oil in batches, frying each for about two to three minutes per side. They should puff slightly and turn a glorious golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and drain on paper towels to keep them crisp and oil-free.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your shrimp and cream cheese wontons hot with your favorite dipping sauces such as sweet chili or classic soy sauce. This step brings everything together, offering the ideal balance of crispy, creamy, and savory flavors that everyone will love.
How to Serve Shrimp and Cream Cheese Wontons Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle finely chopped fresh cilantro or extra green onions on top of the wontons to add a fresh, herbal note and a burst of color. A light squeeze of lime juice over the warm wontons can also brighten the flavors beautifully without overwhelming the rich filling.
Side Dishes
Complement these shrimp and cream cheese wontons with simple sides like steamed jasmine rice, a crunchy Asian slaw, or spicy cucumber salad. These sides add texture and freshness to the meal, balancing the deep-fried deliciousness of the wontons perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, consider serving the wontons in mini bamboo steamers or on decorative platters lined with banana leaves for a tropical touch. You can also arrange them on skewers with alternating slices of bell pepper or cucumber for easy finger food that looks as good as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooked, store any leftover shrimp and cream cheese wontons in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To keep them from getting soggy, place a paper towel at the bottom of the container to absorb excess moisture.
Freezing
You can freeze the assembled but uncooked wontons by placing them on a parchment-lined tray, freezing until solid, then transferring them to a freezer bag or container. This method locks in freshness and lets you fry them straight from the freezer whenever you want, no thawing required.
Reheating
For reheating, avoid the microwave as it can make the wontons soggy. Instead, use an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes until they are heated through and re-crisped beautifully.
FAQs
Can I use raw shrimp for this recipe?
It’s best to use pre-cooked shrimp to ensure the filling is safe and ready to eat. If you only have raw shrimp, make sure to cook it thoroughly and chop it finely before mixing with the other ingredients.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
A similar soft cheese like ricotta or mascarpone can work as alternatives, though they may alter the texture slightly. Cream cheese provides the signature smoothness and richness that pairs perfectly with shrimp.
How do I prevent wontons from bursting in the oil?
Make sure to seal the edges well using water and avoid overfilling. Frying at the correct temperature (around 350°F) is also vital to cook them quickly and create a crisp shell before the filling expands too much.
Can these be baked instead of fried?
Baking is possible for a lighter version, but they won’t be as crispy. Arrange the wontons on a baking sheet, brush lightly with oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
What sauces pair best with shrimp and cream cheese wontons?
Sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, or a tangy ponzu are fantastic options. You could also try a spicy mayo or a garlic-ginger dipping sauce to complement the flavors of the wontons nicely.
Final Thoughts
This Shrimp and Cream Cheese Wontons Recipe is a joyful delight that’s easy to make yet full of flavor and texture. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or treating yourself, they bring a bit of crunchy, creamy magic to any table. Give these little bites a try – I promise they’ll become a beloved go-to appetizer in your kitchen soon!
Print
Shrimp and Cream Cheese Wontons Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 20–24 wontons 1x
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
Crispy, golden fried shrimp and cream cheese wontons make for an irresistible Asian-inspired appetizer. These bite-sized treats combine soft cream cheese, flavorful chopped shrimp, and aromatic green onions, all wrapped in delicate wonton wrappers and fried to perfection. Perfect for parties or a delicious snack, served with your favorite dipping sauce.
Ingredients
Filling
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup cooked shrimp (finely chopped)
- 2 green onions (finely sliced)
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
Wontons
- 20–24 wonton wrappers
- Water (for sealing)
- Vegetable oil for frying (about 2 inches deep)
Instructions
- Prepare the filling: In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, finely chopped cooked shrimp, green onions, soy sauce, garlic powder, and ground ginger. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well blended and the filling is smooth.
- Assemble the wontons: Lay a wonton wrapper flat on a clean surface. Place approximately 1 teaspoon of the shrimp and cream cheese filling in the center. Dip a finger in water and moisten the edges of the wrapper to help seal. Fold the wrapper into a triangle or bring all four corners together to form a purse shape. Press firmly to ensure a tight seal. Repeat this process with the remaining wrappers and filling.
- Heat the oil: In a deep skillet or saucepan, pour vegetable oil to a depth of about 2 inches. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a kitchen thermometer for accuracy.
- Fry the wontons: Carefully add the wontons to the hot oil in batches, avoiding overcrowding. Fry each batch for about 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until the wontons are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the cooked wontons and drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Serve: Serve the hot, crispy shrimp and cream cheese wontons immediately with sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, or your preferred dipping sauce.
Notes
- For make-ahead convenience, assemble and freeze the wontons before frying. Ensure the edges are sealed tightly to prevent filling leakage during cooking.
- Use fresh vegetable oil and maintain the correct temperature to achieve crispiness without absorbing excess oil.
- Try different dipping sauces such as spicy mayo, hoisin sauce, or plum sauce for variety.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
