Easy Shrimp Roll Recipe for Seafood Lovers

Introduction

Shrimp roll recipe is a classic seafood delight that bring together the perfect balance of tender shrimp, creamy dressing, and a buttery, toasted bun. Originating from the coastal regions of New England, shrimp rolls are often seen as a close relative to the famous lobster roll. However, they offer a more affordable and equally delicious alternative, making them a favorite among seafood lovers.

What makes shrimp rolls so special? It’s the combination of fresh shrimp, a rich yet refreshing dressing, and a bun that’s crispy on the outside but soft and fluffy inside. Whether you prefer them served warm with butter or chilled with a mayonnaise-based dressing, shrimp rolls can be customized to suit any taste.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to create the perfect shrimp roll at home, from choosing the right shrimp to crafting a flavorful filling and selecting the best bun. Plus, you’ll discover variations, side dish pairings, and expert tips to avoid common mistakes. By the end of this article, you’ll have all the knowledge you need to make restaurant-quality shrimp rolls in your own kitchen.

What to Expect in This Recipe

A step-by-step guide to making shrimp rolls from scratch.
Tips on selecting the best shrimp, seasonings, and buns for the perfect flavor and texture.
Variations for spicy, Asian-inspired, and healthy shrimp rolls.
Recommended side dishes and drinks to pair with your shrimp rolls.
Expert solutions to common mistakes, ensuring a flawless shrimp roll experience every time.

Are you ready to make the ultimate shrimp roll? Let’s dive into the ingredients and preparation process!

Ingredients for a Perfect Shrimp Roll

The secret to an irresistible shrimp roll lies in the quality of ingredients. From fresh, juicy shrimp to the perfect bun, every component plays a crucial role in delivering the ultimate flavor and texture. Below, we’ll go over the essential ingredients you’ll need and how to choose the best options.

Choosing the Best Shrimp

Shrimp is the star of this dish, so selecting the right type is crucial. Here’s what to consider:

Fresh vs. Frozen Shrimp

Fresh Shrimp: If you have access to fresh shrimp, always go for them. Look for firm, translucent flesh with a mild ocean-like scent. Avoid shrimp that smell overly fishy or have a slimy texture.
Frozen Shrimp: High-quality frozen shrimp can be just as good as fresh. Opt for wild-caught shrimp when possible and make sure they are individually quick frozen (IQF) to preserve their texture and flavor.

What Size Shrimp is Best?

Medium to Large Shrimp (31/40 count per pound) are ideal because they offer a meaty texture without being overwhelming in the roll.
Jumbo Shrimp (16/20 count per pound) can also work, but they may need extra chopping to fit into the bun neatly.

Should You Use Peeled or Unpeeled Shrimp?

Peeled and Deveined: Saves time and effort.
Shell-On Shrimp: Often more flavorful but requires extra prep.
Tail-On vs. Tail-Off: Since shrimp rolls require chopping the shrimp into bite-sized pieces, tail-off shrimp are the best option.

How to Devein Shrimp Properly

If your shrimp haven’t been deveined, follow these simple steps:

Use a sharp paring knife to make a shallow cut along the back of the shrimp.
Remove the dark vein using the tip of the knife or rinse it under cold water.
Pat the shrimp dry before cooking to ensure the best texture.

Essential Ingredients for the Filling

A great shrimp roll features a creamy, well-seasoned filling that enhances the shrimp without overpowering it. Here are the must-have ingredients:

Mayonnaise – Adds creaminess and binds the filling together. Use high-quality mayo for the best flavor.
Unsalted Butter – Essential for toasting the buns and adding a rich, buttery flavor.
Lemon Juice – Brightens the filling and balances the richness of the mayo.
Celery – Provides a refreshing crunch that complements the tender shrimp.
Fresh Herbs – Chopped chives, parsley, or dill add freshness and depth.
Salt and Black Pepper – Enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp.
Old Bay Seasoning (Optional) – A classic seafood seasoning blend that adds a subtle spice.
Garlic Powder (Optional) – A small amount can boost the umami flavor without overwhelming the dish.

Selecting the Right Bun

A great bun is just as important as the filling. The best shrimp roll buns are soft yet sturdy, slightly sweet, and easy to toast.

Best Bun Options

New England-Style Split-Top Hot Dog Buns – The classic choice! These buns have flat, exposed sides that toast beautifully in butter.
Brioche Buns – Slightly richer and more delicate, perfect for a gourmet touch.
Hoagie Rolls – A good alternative if you prefer a more substantial roll.

How to Toast the Bun for Maximum Flavor

Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.
Place the buns cut-side down and toast for 1–2 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
Remove from heat and let them cool slightly before adding the filling.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Shrimp Roll

Now that we have gathered the perfect ingredients, it’s time to prepare, cook, and assemble the shrimp roll. Follow these detailed steps to ensure your shrimp roll is flavorful, juicy, and perfectly balanced.

Prepping the Shrimp

The way you cook shrimp greatly impacts its texture and flavor. Shrimp should be tender, slightly firm, and not rubbery. Here are the best methods for preparing shrimp:

1. Boiling Shrimp (Quick and Easy)

Boiling is a simple and efficient method that keeps shrimp tender.

Fill a pot with salted water and bring it to a rolling boil.
Add the shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque.
Immediately remove the shrimp and place them in an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
Drain and pat dry before chopping them into bite-sized pieces.

2. Sautéing Shrimp (Best for Maximum Flavor)

Sautéing adds extra richness and a slight crisp to the shrimp.

Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a pan over medium heat.
Add the shrimp in a single layer and season with salt, pepper, and optional Old Bay seasoning.
Cook for 1–2 minutes per side until they turn pink and slightly golden.
Remove from heat and let them rest before chopping.

3. Grilling Shrimp (For a Smoky Twist)

Grilling adds a light charred flavor that pairs well with fresh herbs and lemon.

Preheat a grill to medium-high heat.
Skewer the shrimp or place them on a grill pan.
Brush with olive oil and season lightly.
Grill for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and slightly charred.
Let them cool before chopping into small pieces.

Making the Flavorful Filling

Now that the shrimp are perfectly cooked, it’s time to create a creamy, balanced filling.

Chop the shrimp into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they’re not too large or too finely minced.
In a mixing bowl, combine:
- ½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a healthier version)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ¼ cup finely diced celery for crunch
- 1 tablespoon chopped chives or parsley for freshness
- ¼ teaspoon salt and black pepper (adjust to taste)
- Optional: ½ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a mild spice
Gently fold in the shrimp, making sure everything is evenly coated but not overmixed.
Cover the bowl and chill for 10–15 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

Toasting and Preparing the Bun

A well-toasted bun adds a buttery crunch that elevates the entire dish.

Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a pan over medium heat.
Place the split-top hot dog buns or brioche buns cut-side down in the pan.
Toast for 1–2 minutes per side until golden brown and slightly crispy.
Remove from heat and let them cool slightly before assembling.

Assembling the Shrimp Roll

Now for the best part—putting everything together!

Lightly spread butter or mayo inside the toasted bun for extra richness.
Generously fill the bun with the chilled shrimp mixture, ensuring an even distribution.
Garnish with extra chives or parsley, a squeeze of lemon juice, or a dash of Old Bay seasoning.
Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.

Variations and Creative Twists

While the classic shrimp roll is delicious on its own, there are plenty of ways to customize it based on your personal taste. Whether you love a spicy kick, an Asian-inspired flavor, or a healthier twist, these variations will take your shrimp roll to the next level.

Spicy Shrimp Roll

If you enjoy a little heat in your seafood, try adding bold spices and sauces to your shrimp roll.

Ingredients for a Spicy Shrimp Roll

½ teaspoon Cajun seasoning or Old Bay
½ teaspoon paprika (for smoky depth)
½ teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon hot sauce (Sriracha, Tabasco, or your favorite)
1 teaspoon chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)

How to Make It

Season the shrimp with Cajun seasoning, paprika, and garlic powder before cooking.
Sauté or grill the shrimp in butter until slightly crispy.
Mix the shrimp with the classic filling ingredients and add hot sauce for an extra kick.
Assemble the shrimp roll as usual and top with chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.

🔥 Pro Tip: Pair with a cooling side dish like coleslaw or cucumber salad to balance the heat.

Asian-Inspired Shrimp Roll

This variation infuses savory umami flavors with ingredients like soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger.

Ingredients for an Asian Shrimp Roll

1 teaspoon soy sauce
½ teaspoon sesame oil
½ teaspoon grated ginger
½ teaspoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon chopped scallions
1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)

How to Make It

Sauté the shrimp with sesame oil and grated ginger.
Instead of mayonnaise, mix the filling with soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a small amount of sesame oil.
Garnish with chopped scallions and sesame seeds before serving.
Serve with a side of pickled vegetables or a light Asian slaw.

🍜 Pro Tip: This variation pairs perfectly with an iced green tea or a light, citrusy white wine.

Healthy Shrimp Roll Option

Looking for a lighter version of the classic shrimp roll? This recipe uses Greek yogurt instead of mayo and a whole-grain bun for added fiber.

Healthy Ingredient Swaps

Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a protein boost.
Use a whole-wheat or gluten-free bun instead of white bread.
Add extra veggies like diced cucumbers or shredded lettuce for freshness.
Reduce butter usage by lightly spraying the bun with olive oil instead of pan-frying in butter.

How to Make It

Cook the shrimp using the boiling method to keep it lean.
Mix the shrimp with Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and fresh herbs.
Assemble the roll using a whole-wheat bun and extra veggies.
Serve with a side of fresh fruit salad or a quinoa-based dish.

🥗 Pro Tip: This version is great for meal prepping—store the shrimp mixture separately and assemble the roll just before eating.

Side Dishes and Pairings

A shrimp roll is a satisfying meal on its own, but pairing it with the right side dishes and drinks can elevate the experience. Whether you prefer something crispy, fresh, or indulgent, these accompaniments will perfectly complement the flavors of your shrimp roll.

Best Side Dishes for a Shrimp Roll

1. Classic Coleslaw

A light, crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and texture to balance the creamy shrimp filling.

Best Dressing: A tangy vinegar-based slaw works best, but a light mayo slaw is also a good option.
Ingredients: Shredded cabbage, carrots, apple cider vinegar, a touch of honey, and Dijon mustard.

🥗 Pro Tip: Let the coleslaw sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.

2. Crispy French Fries or Potato Chips

Golden, crispy fries or kettle-cooked potato chips provide a satisfying crunch alongside the soft shrimp roll.

Best Choice: Old Bay seasoned fries or sweet potato fries for an extra flavor boost.
Dipping Sauce Idea: Try a side of garlic aioli or spicy ketchup for a gourmet touch.

🍟 Pro Tip: If you want a healthier option, opt for baked or air-fried sweet potato fries.

3. Corn on the Cob

Corn on the cob pairs beautifully with seafood, especially when it’s grilled and topped with butter and fresh herbs.

Best Preparation: Brush corn with garlic butter and grill for a smoky flavor.
Alternative Option: Try Mexican-style elote with cotija cheese, lime, and chili powder.

🌽 Pro Tip: If fresh corn isn’t in season, a corn and black bean salad makes a great alternative.

4. Light Garden Salad

A fresh salad with citrus vinaigrette helps cut through the richness of the shrimp roll.

Best Ingredients: Mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, avocado, cucumber, and a lemony dressing.
Topping Idea: Add toasted almonds or sunflower seeds for extra crunch.

🥗 Pro Tip: A simple arugula salad with shaved Parmesan and lemon pairs exceptionally well with seafood.

5. Clam Chowder or Seafood Bisque

For a heartier meal, serve your shrimp roll with a warm bowl of New England clam chowder or a creamy lobster bisque.

Best Choice: A light seafood broth-based soup works well if you don’t want anything too heavy.
Alternative Option: A chilled gazpacho is perfect for warm-weather dining.

🥣 Pro Tip: If you’re short on time, a quick corn and shrimp chowder is an easy homemade alternative.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even though making a shrimp roll is simple, a few common mistakes can affect the flavor, texture, and overall experience. Here’s how to avoid them and ensure your shrimp roll turns out perfect every time.

1. Overcooking the Shrimp

One of the biggest mistakes people make is overcooking the shrimp, which leads to a tough, rubbery texture. Shrimp cook very quickly, and even a minute too long can make them chewy.

How to Avoid It:

Watch for color change – Shrimp should turn opaque and pink. This usually takes 2–3 minutes in boiling water or 1–2 minutes per side when sautéing or grilling.
Use an ice bath – If boiling shrimp, immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
Check for doneness – Properly cooked shrimp will have a slight C-shape; if they curl into an O-shape, they are overcooked.

2. Choosing the Wrong Bun

The bun is just as important as the filling. A bad bun can either be too dense or too soft, making the shrimp roll feel off-balance.

How to Avoid It:

Use a split-top hot dog bun – These buns have a soft inside but a slightly crisp crust, making them ideal for shrimp rolls.
Toast the bun properly – Butter and toast the bun lightly in a pan for a golden, crispy texture that won’t overpower the filling.
Avoid overly thick buns – Too much bread can dry out the dish and take away from the shrimp’s flavor.

3. Overpowering the Shrimp Flavor

Shrimp have a naturally sweet, delicate flavor, so using too much mayonnaise, seasoning, or extra ingredients can mask their taste.

How to Avoid It:

Use just enough mayo – About ½ cup of mayo per pound of shrimp is enough for creaminess without overwhelming the seafood.
Balance the seasoning – A touch of lemon juice, salt, pepper, and fresh herbs enhances the shrimp rather than covering it.
Keep it simple – Avoid adding too many strong flavors like heavy spices, garlic, or mustard unless making a specific variation.

4. Using Low-Quality Shrimp

Shrimp quality makes a huge difference in flavor and texture. Poor-quality shrimp can taste bland, mushy, or overly fishy.

How to Avoid It:

Use wild-caught shrimp – They have better texture and flavor compared to farmed shrimp.
Check for freshness – Fresh shrimp should be firm, translucent, and have a mild ocean smell (not overly fishy).
Buy frozen shrimp wisely – Choose individually quick frozen (IQF) shrimp to avoid freezer-burned or clumped shrimp.

5. Skipping the Chilling Step

Many people skip chilling the shrimp mixture before assembling the roll, which can affect the flavor.

How to Avoid It:

If serving a warm shrimp roll, make sure the shrimp is not too hot, as this can cause the bun to become soggy.

Let the shrimp mixture sit in the refrigerator for 10–15 minutes before assembling.

Chilling helps the flavors blend together, making the filling more cohesive.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is the shrimp in a shrimp roll cooked?

Yes, the shrimp in a shrimp roll is always cooked before being mixed with the dressing. The most common cooking methods include boiling, sautéing, or grilling to achieve a tender texture. Some variations serve the shrimp warm with butter, while others use chilled shrimp with a creamy dressing.

2. How to make shrimp very tender?

To ensure tender and juicy shrimp, follow these tips:

Do not overcook – Shrimp should be pink and opaque but still slightly firm. Overcooking makes them rubbery.
Use an ice bath – After boiling, immediately transfer shrimp to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
Marinate briefly – A quick marinade with lemon juice or olive oil can help enhance tenderness.

3. Are shrimp rolls good for you?

Yes, shrimp rolls can be a healthy meal if made with lean ingredients. Shrimp is high in protein, low in calories, and rich in omega-3 fatty acids. However, the calorie content increases with butter, mayonnaise, and the bun. For a healthier option, use:

Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise
Whole-wheat or lettuce wraps instead of a traditional bun
Less butter for toasting

4. Do I rinse shrimp after soaking in milk?

Soaking shrimp in milk can help remove any fishy odor and improve the texture. If you use this method:

Soak shrimp in cold milk for 10–15 minutes.
Rinse lightly with cold water before patting dry.
Proceed with cooking as usual.

5. What is the secret to juicy shrimp?

The secret to juicy, flavorful shrimp lies in cooking it quickly and correctly:

Cook on high heat for a short time – This keeps the shrimp tender and prevents drying out.
Use fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp – Older shrimp tend to lose moisture and become tough.
Add a bit of butter or olive oil at the end – This enhances moisture and flavor.

Conclusion

Shrimp rolls are a delicious, easy-to-make seafood dish that can be customized to suit any taste. Whether you enjoy them classic with mayo, spicy with Cajun seasoning, or light and healthy with Greek yogurt, there’s a shrimp roll recipe for everyone.

By following the step-by-step guide, choosing the best ingredients, and avoiding common mistakes, you can create restaurant-quality shrimp rolls at home. Pair them with crispy fries, a refreshing salad, or a cold drink for the perfect meal.

Now that you have all the knowledge you need, it’s time to get cooking and enjoy a fresh, flavorful shrimp roll!