Name: Shrimp Burgers with Cilantro and Guacamole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound raw shrimp; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup chopped cilantro; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 egg, beaten; 1 tablespoon lime juice; 1 avocado, mashed; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1 small jalapeño, minced (optional); Salt, to taste; Lime juice, to taste; Burger buns; Lettuce and tomato

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Say hello to a burger that just might steal your heart (and your summer cookout)! Shrimp Burgers with Cilantro and Guacamole are packed with bright herbs, zippy lime, and juicy shrimp, all snuggled in a toasted bun with a seriously irresistible pile of homemade guacamole. Each bite is a flavor vacation: savory, creamy, a little bit spicy, and delightfully fresh. They’re fast, fun, and a glorious change from your usual burger routine. If you’re looking for a meal to impress and satisfy that doesn’t take all night, this is it!

Shrimp Burgers with Cilantro and Guacamole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Shrimp Burgers with Cilantro and Guacamole comes down to thoughtfully chosen ingredients that shine in every layer. Each one plays a unique role: the shrimp keep things juicy, cilantro boosts freshness, and avocados lend dreamy creaminess. Here’s exactly what you’ll need and why you shouldn’t skip a thing!

Shrimp (1 pound, raw): The star! Go for peeled and deveined for easy prep and maximum sweetness.
Breadcrumbs (1/2 cup): These bind the burgers together and help keep them tender instead of dense.
Cilantro (1/4 cup, chopped): Packs a burst of herby flavor and vibrant color throughout each bite.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Brings a gentle heat and savory backbone to the patties.
Ground cumin (1 teaspoon): Lends a warm, earthy depth that pairs perfectly with both shrimp and avocado.
Paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Adds color and a mild smokiness for that classic burger flavor twist.
Salt and pepper (to taste): Vital for seasoning every element just right—don’t skimp!
Egg (1, beaten): Helps hold everything together for patties that don’t fall apart on the stove.
Lime juice (1 tablespoon): Freshens things up and echoes the brightness in the guacamole.
Avocado (1, mashed): The creamy base of your guacamole, essential for topping your burgers.
Red onion (1/4 cup, finely chopped): Brings crunch and sharpness to the guacamole layer.
Jalapeño (1 small, minced; optional): For a little tingle of heat in your guac—add as much as you dare!
Salt (to taste, for guacamole): Balances the richness of the avocado and highlights the other flavors.
Lime juice (to taste, for guacamole): Keeps the avocado bright and helps the flavors meld.
Burger buns: Go classic or pick brioche for extra indulgence; toast them for even more magic.
Lettuce and tomato: Cool crisp lettuce and juicy tomato slices keep everything fresh and colorful.

How to Make

Step 1: Roughly Chop and Prep the Shrimp

Start by giving your shrimp a quick pulse in the food processor. You want chunks, not puree—think the texture of ground chicken, but slightly coarser. This is the foundation for the texture that sets Shrimp Burgers with Cilantro and Guacamole apart from ordinary seafood patties. No food processor? Just chop the shrimp by hand into little pieces; it’s a quick job!

Step 2: Mix the Patties

In a big mixing bowl, combine your shrimp with breadcrumbs, cilantro, minced garlic, ground cumin, paprika, a pinch of salt and pepper, one beaten egg, and a generous squeeze of lime juice. Stir everything together until it just holds together—don’t overmix! The mixture should be just moist enough to form gentle patties that hold their shape.

Step 3: Shape and Chill

Form your mixture into four even patties, pressing gently so they hold but aren’t packed too tight. Pop them on a plate, cover, and chill in the fridge for about 10 minutes. This step is a total game-changer for texture, giving the breadcrumbs time to hydrate and helping the patties stay firm and juicy during cooking.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp Burgers

Heat up a skillet or grill over medium-high heat (add a little oil if using a skillet). Cook the patties for 4 to 5 minutes per side—don’t move them too much, just let them develop that gorgeous golden crust. They’re done when firm to the touch and opaque all the way through. Resist the urge to overcook; shrimp cooks lightning fast!

Step 5: Make the Guacamole

While the burgers cook, mash your avocado with chopped red onion, jalapeño if using, a squeeze of lime juice, and a big pinch of salt. Taste and adjust the salt and lime to your liking. This guac is bold, chunky, and designed to sit proudly atop your Shrimp Burgers with Cilantro and Guacamole.

Step 6: Assemble and Serve

Now comes the best part—assembly! Toast your buns if you like them a little crisp. Pile on lettuce and tomato slices, nestle a hot shrimp burger on top, and spoon over a dreamy layer of guacamole. Press the bun lid on gently and prepare for the happiest, messiest bite!

How to Serve

Garnishes

A few garnishes go a long way here. Scatter extra cilantro leaves or a dusting of smoked paprika on the guacamole for a festive look. If you love a little extra zing, some thin red chili slices or pickled onions really take the Shrimp Burgers with Cilantro and Guacamole to the next level. Keep a wedge of lime handy for a fresh spritz before serving.

Side Dishes

Pairing your burgers with fresh, lively sides sets the meal apart. Try serving with crisp sweet potato fries, corn on the cob, or a simple cucumber salad tossed in lime juice. Anything cool and crunchy is a fabulous contrast to the rich and creamy personality of Shrimp Burgers with Cilantro and Guacamole.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn Shrimp Burgers with Cilantro and Guacamole into sliders on mini buns for a party platter, stack open-faced with a heap of guac for a fork-and-knife situation, or tuck them in lettuce wraps for a lighter spin. Play with colorful plates and fresh greens to make every serving feel special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover patties keep well for up to two days in an airtight container in the fridge. If possible, store the guacamole separately since its flavor and color are best fresh. Any extras make incredible next-day salads or wraps—just chop the patties and add fresh greens!

Freezing

You can freeze the uncooked patties (without guacamole) by placing them on a parchment-lined tray until solid, then transferring to a freezer bag. Let them thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking. I wouldn’t recommend freezing the guacamole; it’s best made fresh for the silkiest texture.

Reheating

Warm leftover shrimp burgers gently on the stove over medium heat or in a toaster oven until heated through. Microwaving works in a pinch, but the patties may lose some of their crispness. Always add fresh guacamole and toppings after reheating to keep everything tasting bright and lively.

FAQs

Can I make Shrimp Burgers with Cilantro and Guacamole gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pick gluten-free burger buns. The flavors and texture remain just as wonderful, and you won’t miss a thing.

What type of shrimp works best for these burgers?

Medium or large raw shrimp are ideal—look for peeled and deveined to save time. Frozen shrimp works beautifully too; just be sure to thaw and pat them dry before processing.

How spicy are these burgers?

They’re mild as written. If you like things spicy, add extra jalapeño to the guacamole or a pinch of chili flakes or hot sauce directly into the burger mix. You control the heat!

Can I grill the patties instead of using a skillet?

Yes! The patties hold together nicely, especially if you chill them first. Just be sure to oil the grill grates well and handle the burgers carefully with a spatula.

How do I keep my shrimp patties from falling apart?

Don’t skip the chilling step—it really helps! Also, avoid overmixing the shrimp and ingredients. A gentle hand when forming the patties and letting them cook undisturbed until they naturally release from the pan or grill makes all the difference.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend Shrimp Burgers with Cilantro and Guacamole enough—they’re crave-worthy, colorful, and easier than you’d ever expect. Give them a try and bring a fresh, coastal vibe to your table, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a sunny weekend gathering. Dig in and prepare to fall in love with your new favorite burger!