Baked Shrimp Toast

The irresistible combination of creamy shrimp, zesty aromatics, and golden toasted bread makes Baked Shrimp Toast an instant crowd-pleaser. This dish is a take on the classic dim sum favorite but with a lighter twist — baked instead of deep-fried — for a crispy texture without the extra oil.

It’s quick to make and even quicker to disappear off the plate. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just want a savory snack that feels fancy, this recipe delivers. The creamy shrimp topping bakes into the bread, while the sesame seeds add that satisfying crunch. It’s fusion flavor at its finest — comforting, crunchy, and irresistibly savory.

Full Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1/2 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 3 tablespoons mayonnaise

• 2 teaspoons sesame oil

• 1 teaspoon soy sauce

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• 1 green onion, finely chopped

• 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper

• 1 teaspoon cornstarch

• 4 slices white sandwich bread

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (softened)

• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

• Optional garnish: extra green onions or chili flakes

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.

2. In a food processor, pulse the shrimp until finely chopped.

3. Transfer shrimp to a bowl and add mayonnaise, sesame oil, soy sauce, garlic, green onion, white pepper, and cornstarch. Mix until well combined.

4. Trim crusts from the bread slices and spread a thin layer of softened butter on one side of each slice.

5. Spread a generous layer of the shrimp mixture over the unbuttered side of each bread slice.

6. Sprinkle sesame seeds evenly over the top of the shrimp mixture.

7. Cut each slice into quarters (triangles or squares, as desired).

8. Place the pieces on the prepared baking tray, shrimp side up.

9. Bake for 12–15 minutes or until the shrimp topping is cooked through and the edges of the bread are golden.

10. Serve warm, garnished with green onions or chili flakes if desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 180 kcal per serving | Servings: 4 servings

Baked Shrimp Toast: A Crispy, Creamy Seafood Delight

Baked Shrimp Toast is a beloved Asian-inspired appetizer that combines the bold flavor of seasoned shrimp with the comforting crunch of toasted bread. Traditionally pan-fried or deep-fried in many East Asian cuisines, this version opts for a healthier twist—baking the shrimp toast to golden perfection. The result is a crispy, creamy, and utterly addictive snack or starter that works beautifully for parties, gatherings, or a flavorful evening snack.

This dish is especially popular in Chinese and Thai cuisine, often appearing on dim sum carts or as street food. Its fusion appeal has led to creative variations worldwide, but the core idea remains simple: shrimp paste spread on slices of bread, then cooked until golden, savory, and satisfying. This baked version retains all the goodness of the original but with less oil and mess, making it a more accessible and health-conscious option for home cooks.

What Makes Baked Shrimp Toast So Irresistible?

There’s something magical about the contrast in textures and flavors that shrimp toast offers. The creamy, savory shrimp mixture is rich with umami from soy sauce and sesame oil, perfectly balanced with the mild sweetness of fresh shrimp and a hint of garlic. Spread over soft white bread, the mixture bakes into the bread itself, becoming part of its structure while creating a crisp, golden crust on top.

The buttered bottom ensures that the bread toasts evenly and gains just the right amount of crunch, while the sesame seeds scattered on top offer both flavor and texture. Every bite delivers a delightful crunch, followed by a rich, creamy burst of flavor. It’s simple, but the flavor profile is deeply satisfying.

A Healthier Take on a Classic

While traditional shrimp toast is typically deep-fried, this baked version reduces the amount of oil needed without sacrificing taste or texture. By brushing or spreading a minimal amount of butter and baking in a hot oven, you achieve the desired crunch without the grease. This method not only makes it healthier but also easier to prepare and clean up afterward.

Moreover, baking offers the added benefit of allowing multiple slices to be cooked simultaneously. This makes it ideal when preparing for guests or large gatherings where timing and efficiency matter.

Perfect for Entertaining

If you’re looking for an appetizer that’s sure to impress without keeping you in the kitchen all night, Baked Shrimp Toast is your answer. You can prepare the shrimp mixture in advance, assemble the toast, and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. It comes together quickly, cooks in about 15 minutes, and is best served warm, straight from the oven.

Its bite-sized form also makes it perfect for buffets and party trays. Whether cut into triangles, squares, or even made using baguette rounds for smaller servings, shrimp toast is a dish that not only tastes amazing but looks impressive too. Garnish with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, or a touch of chili flakes for a beautiful finish that pops on the plate.

Versatility in Every Bite

One of the best things about Baked Shrimp Toast is how customizable it is. The shrimp base can be spiced up with chili sauce, seasoned with ginger for an extra aromatic lift, or made even richer with a dash of cream cheese for a smoother texture. The bread base is also flexible—white sandwich bread is classic, but French baguette slices or even sourdough work wonderfully for a different texture or flavor.

You can also explore different toppings. Try sprinkling shredded cheese for a fusion-style twist or swapping sesame seeds for chopped herbs or crushed nuts for added crunch and visual flair. Each adjustment brings something new while retaining the comfort-food soul of the original dish.

Why It’s Loved Across Cultures

Shrimp toast may have roots in Chinese cuisine, particularly Cantonese dim sum, but its popularity has traveled far beyond. In Thailand, it’s often served with a sweet chili dipping sauce. In Western kitchens, it’s evolved into everything from cocktail party fare to game-day finger food.

Its universal appeal lies in its simplicity and deliciousness. Shrimp is a globally loved protein, bread is a staple in nearly every cuisine, and the combination of crisp and creamy textures never fails to satisfy. Whether you’re serving it alongside a cucumber salad or offering it as a solo star appetizer, it never fails to win compliments.

Tips for the Best Baked Shrimp Toast

1. Use Fresh Shrimp:
Fresh or thawed raw shrimp yields the best flavor. Avoid pre-cooked shrimp, which can become rubbery when baked again.

2. Don’t Skip the Cornstarch:
Cornstarch helps bind the shrimp mixture and gives it a smooth, stable texture that holds up well on the bread.

3. Chill the Mixture:
Letting the shrimp spread chill for a bit before baking helps firm it up and improves how well it adheres to the bread.

4. Choose the Right Bread:
Soft white sandwich bread offers the best structure and toasts beautifully. Be sure to trim off the crusts for a more refined look.

5. Garnish After Baking:
Fresh herbs or chili flakes are best added after baking to keep their color and potency.

Serving Suggestions

Baked Shrimp Toast can be served in a variety of settings. Here are a few ideas:

• As a starter with a light salad or pickled vegetables.

• As finger food at a cocktail party or brunch spread.

• As part of a larger Asian-themed meal, paired with dumplings, spring rolls, or noodle dishes.

• With dipping sauces, such as sweet chili, garlic aioli, or spicy mayo, for added flavor.

If you’re hosting an event, arrange the shrimp toast bites on a platter with garnishes like lime wedges or sesame-crusted cucumbers for a beautifully curated look.

Nutritional Considerations

Shrimp is naturally low in fat and high in protein, making it a healthy choice when prepared without excessive oil. This baked recipe keeps calories lower while maintaining flavor. Additionally, the use of green onions and garlic adds not only a flavor punch but also beneficial antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.

Using whole grain or gluten-free bread can further tailor the recipe to specific dietary needs without sacrificing the essence of the dish. And thanks to its portion-friendly size, it’s easier to manage servings for those watching calorie intake.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

• Quick & Easy: Comes together fast, ideal for beginners or busy weeknights.

• Crowd Pleaser: Elegant enough for guests, comforting enough for casual nights.

• Customizable: Easily adapted to your favorite flavors or dietary needs.

• Healthy Alternative: Baked, not fried, with wholesome ingredients.

• Freezer-Friendly: You can assemble and freeze, then bake straight from frozen—perfect for meal prep or unexpected visitors.

Conclusion

Baked Shrimp Toast is a versatile, flavorful appetizer that bridges the gap between traditional comfort and modern health-conscious cooking. By taking a familiar recipe and baking it instead of frying, you retain all the wonderful textures and rich flavors while making it lighter and easier to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a weekend party, or a simple cozy night at home, this dish adds a burst of elegance and satisfaction with minimal effort.

Once you’ve tried it, you’ll see why it’s earned its place in the world of crowd-pleasing appetizers. It’s crisp on the outside, creamy inside, rich with umami, and endlessly customizable. A few simple ingredients transform into something magical, making Baked Shrimp Toast a staple you’ll come back to again and again.

Let the aroma of toasting sesame and savory shrimp fill your kitchen—and watch as the tray empties before your eyes.