If you’re craving something bursting with bold flavors and the perfect touch of heat, this Spicy Baked Shrimp Balls with Sweet Chili Sauce Recipe is going to become your new favorite. These little bites are a symphony of tender shrimp, fragrant Thai chili peppers, zesty lime, and fresh herbs all baked to golden perfection. Paired with the sticky sweetness of the chili sauce, every bite delivers a mouthwatering contrast that’s impossible to resist. Whether you’re entertaining friends or just treating yourself, these shrimp balls offer an impressive yet easy appetizer that feels fancy without any fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the secret to making these shrimp balls shine. Each component adds its own magic—whether it’s the plump shrimp for a juicy bite, the Panko for a delicate crunch, or the lime juice for a bright zing. Here’s everything you’ll want to have on hand to create this delicious dish:
- 1 ½ pounds shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star of the show, providing sweet and tender seafood flavor.
- 1 tablespoon canola oil: Perfect for lightly sautéing the aromatics and enhancing their fragrance.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Adds a savory depth that complements the shrimp beautifully.
- 2 shallots, chopped: Offers a mild onion flavor with a touch of sweetness.
- 3 Thai chili peppers, seeded and chopped: Brings in the signature spicy kick without overpowering.
- Juice of one lime: Fresh acidity that balances the dish and brightens flavors.
- 2 egg whites: Acts as the perfect binder to keep the shrimp balls together without heaviness.
- ½ cup Panko bread crumbs: Adds just enough texture while keeping the balls light.
- 2 green onions, chopped (green parts only): A burst of color and gentle onion flavor.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro: Lends a fresh, herbal lift to the mixture.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon pepper: Provides a subtle warmth and rounds out the seasoning.
- Cooking spray: Helps achieve that perfect golden crust while baking.
- Sweet chili sauce: The irresistible companion that brings sticky sweet heat to each bite.
How to Make Spicy Baked Shrimp Balls with Sweet Chili Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by setting your oven to 350℉ so it’s ready when your shrimp balls are formed and seasoned. This ensures even cooking and a lovely, golden finish.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp Mixture
Pulse the shrimp in a food processor until finely chopped but not pureed—think chunky paste that still has texture. Transfer to a bowl and mix in egg whites, Panko, green onions, cilantro, salt, and freshly squeezed lime juice. This combination keeps the shrimp balls tender yet firm enough to hold together during baking.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
In a skillet, warm the canola oil and sauté the minced garlic, chopped shallots, and Thai chilies until the shallots become translucent and fragrant. This simple step transforms raw ingredients into an aromatic powerhouse that will infuse the shrimp balls with complex layers of flavor. Let this mixture cool slightly before adding it to your shrimp blend.
Step 4: Combine and Shape
Add the sautéed aromatics into the shrimp mixture and stir to combine evenly. Now comes the fun part—shape the mixture into 1-inch balls using your hands. The mixture should be sticky enough to hold without crumbling. Place each one gently onto a baking sheet lined with cooking spray or parchment paper.
Step 5: Bake and Broil to Perfection
Pop your tray into the oven and bake for 15 to 17 minutes. When the time is up, switch to broil for an additional 2 minutes to achieve that irresistible golden-brown crust. Keep a close eye here; you want a crisp exterior without drying out the tender shrimp inside.
How to Serve Spicy Baked Shrimp Balls with Sweet Chili Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can elevate this dish from delicious to dazzling. Sprinkle extra chopped cilantro and green onions on top for a burst of fresh green color and flavor. For a bit of crunch, crushed peanuts or toasted sesame seeds work beautifully. Don’t forget an extra drizzle of sweet chili sauce alongside for dipping—it’s the perfect finishing touch.
Side Dishes
These shrimp balls pair wonderfully with light and crisp sides. Think a simple Asian slaw tossed with lime and a touch of sesame oil or steamed jasmine rice to soak up the sauce. Crisp cucumber slices or a fresh mango salad also complement the spicy sweetness while keeping things bright and refreshing.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Serve your shrimp balls on bamboo skewers for easy finger food at a party. Alternatively, arrange them atop individual lettuce leaves with a dollop of sweet chili sauce for a fresh, handheld bite. Even placing them over a bed of vermicelli noodles or rice paper rolls can turn this humble snack into a gorgeous main event.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers (though they rarely last!), keep the shrimp balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. This ensures they remain tender without getting soggy or losing their vibrant flavor.
Freezing
These shrimp balls freeze wonderfully. Arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. This way, they won’t stick together, and you can pull out just the amount you need. They stay good for up to 3 months frozen.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Warm gently in the oven at 325℉ for about 8-10 minutes to retain that crispy exterior. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the original delightful crunch and texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw and pat the shrimp dry before chopping to avoid excess moisture in the mixture, which can affect the texture of your shrimp balls.
What if I don’t like spicy food? Can I omit the Thai chilies?
You can reduce or skip the chili peppers altogether if you’re sensitive to heat. The shrimp balls will still be delicious and flavorful thanks to the garlic, shallots, and lime juice.
Is it possible to make these shrimp balls gluten-free?
Yes! Just swap out the Panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to keep that lovely texture without gluten.
Can I use a different dipping sauce instead of sweet chili sauce?
Definitely! While sweet chili sauce is classic with this dish, you can experiment with other sauces like spicy mayo, garlic aioli, or even a tangy tamarind dip.
How can I make these shrimp balls ahead for a party?
You can prepare the mixture and shape the balls a day in advance, storing them covered in the fridge. Just bake right before serving for the freshest taste and crispy exterior.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try this Spicy Baked Shrimp Balls with Sweet Chili Sauce Recipe, you’ll be hooked on the incredible combination of flavors and textures. It’s a recipe that’s approachable, uses straightforward ingredients, yet delivers plenty of wow factor. So go ahead and make them for your next gathering or cozy night in—you’ll be glad you did!
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Spicy Baked Shrimp Balls with Sweet Chili Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
This Spicy Baked Shrimp Balls recipe features tender shrimp combined with aromatic garlic, shallots, and Thai chili peppers, baked to golden perfection. These flavorful shrimp balls are paired perfectly with a sweet chili sauce, making them a delightful appetizer or snack that’s easy to prepare in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Shrimp Balls
- 1 ½ pounds shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon canola oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 shallots, chopped
- 3 Thai chili peppers, seeded and chopped
- Juice of one lime
- 2 egg whites
- ½ cup Panko bread crumbs
- 2 green onions, chopped (green parts only)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- Cooking spray
- Sweet chili sauce (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350℉ (175℃) to prepare for baking the shrimp balls.
- Prepare Shrimp Mixture: Finely chop the peeled and deveined shrimp using a food processor until finely minced. Transfer the shrimp to a bowl and mix in the egg whites, Panko bread crumbs, chopped green onions, fresh cilantro, salt, and lime juice to create a cohesive mixture.
- Sauté Aromatics (Optional): Heat canola oil in a small pan over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic, chopped shallots, and seeded chopped Thai chili peppers until the shallots become translucent and the mixture is fragrant. Allow this mixture to cool slightly before using.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooled sautéed garlic, shallots, and chili peppers to the shrimp mixture. Stir thoroughly to evenly distribute the aromatics throughout the mixture.
- Form Shrimp Balls: Using your hands or a small scoop, shape the shrimp mixture into 1-inch diameter balls. Arrange the formed balls onto a baking sheet lined with cooking spray or parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Bake Shrimp Balls: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the shrimp balls for 15 to 17 minutes until they are cooked through and firm to the touch.
- Broil for Color: For a golden-brown finish, set your oven to broil and cook the shrimp balls for an additional 2 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Serve: Remove the shrimp balls from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve warm with sweet chili sauce on the side as a dipping sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, leave the seeds in the Thai chili peppers or add extra chili according to taste.
- Using fresh shrimp is best for flavor and texture, but frozen shrimp that is thoroughly thawed can be used.
- Ensure the shrimp mixture is not too wet; if it is, add a bit more Panko bread crumbs to help bind it.
- These shrimp balls can be made ahead and refrigerated for a few hours before baking.
- Serve as an appetizer, snack, or part of a main seafood meal.
