Irresistibly Cheesy Shrimp Squares Recipe for Family Dinner Fun

Crispy golden cheesy shrimp squares deliver a delightful burst of ocean-inspired flavors that will make your taste buds dance.

Seafood enthusiasts appreciate how quickly these appetizers come together in a home kitchen.

Melted cheese creates a rich, creamy backdrop for succulent shrimp pieces nestled within each perfect bite.

Delicate and satisfying, these squares work beautifully as party snacks or elegant finger food for casual gatherings.

Guests always marvel at the combination of textures and robust maritime notes packed into each compact morsel.

Marinades and careful seasoning make these squares stand out from typical seafood appetizers.

You should definitely give this recipe a whirl for an impressive culinary adventure that promises to surprise and delight everyone at the table.

Why Cheesy Shrimp Squares Are Full of Flavor

• Boost Flavor in Minutes: Packed with zesty garlic and rich cheese, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet appetizer that pops with deliciousness.
• Crowd-Pleasing Potential: Perfect for gatherings, potlucks, and parties where guests crave something beyond ordinary finger foods with its elegant yet approachable presentation.
• Quick Culinary Magic: Minimal prep steps and straightforward technique make this recipe accessible for home cooks of all skill levels, delivering restaurant-quality results without complex techniques.
• Versatile Dining Delight: Adaptable for different occasions from casual game day snacks to sophisticated cocktail parties, offering flexibility for various entertaining scenarios.

Everything You Need for Cheesy Shrimp Squares

• Shrimp: Succulent seafood that provides the primary protein and delicate flavor for the dish.

• Cream Cheese, Cheddar Cheese: Creamy ingredients that create a rich, tangy base and contribute to the overall cheesy texture.

• Puff Pastry: Delicate and flaky base that serves as the foundation for the appetizer.
• Breadcrumbs: Adds a subtle crunch and helps absorb moisture from the filling.
• Butter: Provides richness and helps develop golden color during baking.

• Garlic, Salt, Black Pepper, Paprika: Aromatic spices that enhance the overall flavor profile of the shrimp and cheese mixture.
• Parsley: Fresh herb that adds a bright, herbal note to the filling.

How to Bake Cheesy Shrimp Squares Simply

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Preheat the oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and non-stick surface.

Step 2: Soften the Pastry

Let the puff pastry sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes until it becomes soft and easy to work with.

Step 3: Sizzle the Garlic

Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until it becomes fragrant and turns light golden.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

• Salt
• Black pepper
• Paprika

Cook for 2-3 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and start to curl.

Step 5: Prepare the Shrimp

Remove shrimp from heat and let cool slightly. Chop into bite-sized pieces to ensure even distribution in the final dish.

Step 6: Create the Cheese Blend

• Cream cheese
• Shredded cheddar

Blend until smooth and well combined.

Step 7: Combine Filling

Gently fold the cooked shrimp and chopped parsley into the cheese mixture, creating a rich and flavorful filling.

Step 8: Prepare the Pastry Base

Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Sprinkle breadcrumbs across the entire sheet to create a crisp, textured base.

Step 9: Spread the Filling

Spread the shrimp and cheese mixture evenly over the pastry, leaving a small border around the edges.

Step 10: Shape the Edges

Carefully roll or fold the pastry edges to create a rustic border that will help contain the filling during baking.

Step 11: Bake to Golden Perfection

Transfer the prepared square to the baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the pastry turns golden brown and becomes crisp and flaky.

Step 12: Cool and Serve

Let the cheesy shrimp square cool for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps the filling set and makes cutting easier.

Tips for Great Cheesy Shrimp Squares

• Select Fresh Ingredients: Choose plump, high-quality shrimp and use freshly grated cheese for maximum flavor and creamy texture.
• Prevent Soggy Pastry: Sprinkle breadcrumbs underneath the filling to absorb excess moisture and maintain a crisp bottom crust.
• Control Shrimp Cooking: Remove shrimp from heat immediately when they turn pink to prevent overcooking and maintain tender, juicy texture.
• Enhance Flavor Depth: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of white wine to the shrimp for an extra layer of complexity and taste.
• Master Pastry Handling: Let puff pastry thaw completely but keep it cool to ensure it rises properly and creates a beautifully flaky texture.

Try These Fun Variations on Cheesy Shrimp Squares

• Mediterranean Seafood Squares: Replace shrimp with a mix of feta cheese, diced kalamata olives, and chopped spinach for a Greek-inspired variation.
• Spicy Cajun Squares: Add cayenne pepper, diced bell peppers, and andouille sausage to create a zesty New Orleans-style appetizer with extra heat.
• Asian Fusion Squares: Incorporate ginger, green onions, soy sauce, and swap cheddar for cream cheese with a touch of sesame oil for an eastern flavor profile.
• Smoked Salmon Squares: Substitute shrimp with flaked smoked salmon, dill, and replace cheddar with cream cheese and a sprinkle of capers for an elegant option.

What to Serve With Cheesy Shrimp Squares

• Pair with Crisp White Wine: Select a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to complement the rich, creamy shrimp and cheese flavors, cutting through the richness with bright, refreshing acidity.
• Create Zesty Side Salad: Toss together a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette, cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced cucumber to balance the richness of the cheesy shrimp squares and provide a fresh, tangy contrast.
• Match with Herbed Aioli Dip: Whip up a quick garlic-herb aioli using mayonnaise, fresh chopped parsley, minced garlic, and a squeeze of lemon juice to serve alongside the squares, enhancing the seafood's delicate flavors and adding a creamy, zesty dimension.

Cheesy Shrimp Squares Storage Tips That Work

• Store leftover cheesy shrimp squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking and maintain texture.
• Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 1 month to preserve flavor and quality. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Warm squares in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwave reheating, which can make the pastry soggy and compromise the delicate texture.
• Let squares sit at room temperature for no more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth.

Answers to Your Cheesy Shrimp Squares Questions

• Are puff pastry and breadcrumbs essential for this recipe?

Yes, puff pastry provides a flaky, light base while breadcrumbs add a crispy texture that enhances the overall dish’s crunch and flavor profile.

• Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just ensure the shrimp are completely thawed and pat them dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture that could make the pastry soggy.

• What type of cheese works best for the filling?

Cream cheese and cheddar create a perfect balance of creamy and sharp flavors, but you can also experiment with mozzarella or monterey jack for different taste variations.

• How do I prevent the filling from leaking during baking?

Leave a small border around the pastry edges and gently fold or roll them up to create a natural barrier that helps contain the shrimp and cheese mixture.

Cheesy Shrimp Squares Recipe

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4.6 from 25 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Creamy, golden Cheesy Shrimp Squares bring coastal comfort straight to your dinner table with a delightful blend of succulent seafood and melted cheese. Crisp edges and a rich, savory filling promise a quick, satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 package cream cheese

Pastry and Base:

• 1 sheet puff pastry
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Seasonings and Aromatics:

• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 tsp paprika

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and non-stick surface.
2. Thaw the puff pastry at room temperature for about 30 minutes until it becomes pliable and easy to handle.
3. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat, then add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and lightly golden, releasing its aromatic essence.
4. Add shrimp to the skillet, seasoning with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and begin to curl, ensuring they remain tender and succulent.
5. Remove shrimp from heat and let cool slightly, then roughly chop into bite-sized pieces to distribute evenly in the final dish.
6. In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese and shredded cheddar, blending until smooth and well-integrated.
7. Gently fold the cooked shrimp and chopped parsley into the cheese mixture, creating a rich and flavorful filling.
8. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface, then sprinkle breadcrumbs across the entire sheet to create a crisp, textured base.
9. Spread the shrimp and cheese mixture evenly over the pastry, leaving a small border around the edges.
10. Carefully roll or fold the pastry edges to create a rustic border, which will help contain the filling during baking.
11. Transfer the prepared square to the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until the pastry turns golden brown and becomes crisp and flaky.
12. Allow the cheesy shrimp square to cool for 5 minutes before slicing, which helps the filling set and makes cutting easier.

Notes

• Swap regular butter with plant-based butter for a dairy-free alternative that maintains rich flavor and creamy texture.
• Choose gluten-free puff pastry if managing celiac or gluten sensitivity to make the recipe fully accessible.
• Customize spice levels by adding red pepper flakes or reducing paprika for personalized heat preferences.
• Opt for smaller shrimp to ensure even distribution and easier bite-sized pieces throughout the pastry.

• Prep Time: 40 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 500 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 12 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 15 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 10 g
• Cholesterol: 80 mg