Looking for a snack or appetizer that combines golden crunch, creamy potato softness, and savory shrimp? Look no further. This recipe for Crispy but Soft Inside! Fried Potato Shrimp is about to steal the show at your next meal, gathering, or weekend indulgence. It’s a bite-sized flavor bomb where creamy mashed potatoes meet seasoned shrimp, all wrapped in a crispy golden breadcrumb shell.
A fusion between a Japanese croquette, a seafood nugget, and a classic comfort snack, this recipe creates an addictive texture contrast: crispy outside, fluffy inside, and a juicy burst from the shrimp in the center. Pair it with tomato sauce or spicy mayo, and you’ve got a snack worth repeating.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know about making this viral-worthy street food-inspired recipe at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Potato Mixture
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350 g potatoes, peeled and boiled
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40 g diced onion
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40 g diced carrot
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¼ tsp salt
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¼ tsp pepper powder
For the Shrimp Filling
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Some shrimp (small to medium, peeled and deveined)
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¼ tsp salt
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¼ tsp pepper powder
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¼ tsp garlic powder
For Frying (Breading Station)
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Wheat flour, for dredging
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4 eggs, beaten
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Bread crumbs, for coating
For Serving
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Tomato sauce (or your favorite dip)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Boil and Mash the Potatoes
Peel and cut the potatoes into even-sized chunks, then boil them in salted water until soft—about 15 minutes. Drain thoroughly and mash the potatoes until smooth and fluffy. Let them cool slightly before mixing.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
In a small pan, heat a little oil and lightly sauté the diced onion and carrot until just softened—about 3 to 4 minutes. Add them to the mashed potatoes.
3. Season the Potato Mixture
Mix the mashed potatoes with the sautéed vegetables. Season with ¼ tsp salt and ¼ tsp black pepper. Stir well until everything is evenly combined. The mixture should be moldable—if it’s too soft, chill in the fridge for 10–15 minutes to firm up.
4. Prepare the Shrimp
Peel and devein the shrimp (if not already done). Pat them dry with paper towels. Season them lightly with ¼ tsp salt, ¼ tsp pepper powder, and ¼ tsp garlic powder. Set aside while preparing the coating station.
5. Form the Potato Patties
Scoop about 1½ tablespoons of the seasoned potato mixture into your hand. Flatten slightly and place a shrimp in the center. Gently wrap the potato mixture around the shrimp and roll it into an oval or round shape. Repeat with all remaining mixture and shrimp.
6. Set Up Your Breading Station
You’ll need three bowls:
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One with wheat flour
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One with beaten eggs (about 4 eggs)
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One with breadcrumbs
Dip each potato-shrimp ball first into flour, then into beaten egg, and finally coat with breadcrumbs. Press gently to ensure even coating.
7. Fry Until Golden
Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to 170–180°C (340–355°F). Carefully place 3–4 pieces at a time into the hot oil, being cautious not to overcrowd. Fry for 3–5 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Turn occasionally for even cooking.
Transfer to a wire rack or paper towel-lined tray to drain excess oil.
8. Serve and Enjoy
Serve hot with tomato sauce, garlic aioli, spicy mayo, or your favorite dipping sauce. They’re best enjoyed freshly fried, but leftovers can be crisped up in the oven or air fryer.
What Makes This Recipe So Special?
Perfect Texture Combo
The outer breadcrumb layer crisps up beautifully while the inside stays soft thanks to the mashed potato. The shrimp adds a juicy, chewy bite that contrasts deliciously.
Kid-Friendly and Party-Ready
Kids love the crunchy coating and creamy center, and they’re the perfect size for sharing. Serve them up at parties, potlucks, or as a fun finger food for movie night.
Versatile & Customizable
You can switch up the filling with cheese, minced chicken, or even mushrooms for a vegetarian version. The base potato mixture also works well with herbs like parsley or a touch of chili flakes for spice.
Healthier Alternatives and Tips
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Air Frying Option: Spray with oil and air fry at 200°C (390°F) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
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Oven-Baked Version: Bake on a greased baking tray at 200°C (390°F) for 20–25 minutes.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.
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Extra Protein Boost: Add a teaspoon of grated Parmesan or a touch of nutritional yeast to the potato mixture for umami.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
These potato shrimp croquettes can be prepped in advance:
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Uncooked: After breading, freeze them on a tray until solid, then transfer to freezer bags. Fry straight from frozen—just increase cook time slightly.
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Cooked: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw, rinse, and pat dry thoroughly before seasoning.
How do I prevent them from falling apart?
Make sure your mashed potato mix is firm, not watery. Chill if needed before shaping.
Can I make these vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the shrimp with sautéed mushrooms, mozzarella cubes, or even mashed peas.
What oil should I use for frying?
A neutral oil like canola, sunflower, or vegetable oil works best due to their high smoke points.
Why are my patties soggy after frying?
Ensure your oil is hot enough (around 170–180°C). If it’s too cold, the patties will absorb oil.
Can I add cheese along with the shrimp?
Yes! A cube of mozzarella with the shrimp inside creates a molten surprise.
Do I have to use 4 eggs?
You can use fewer eggs if you’re making a smaller batch, but 4 ensures smooth coating for 8–10 patties.
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Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes. Bake at 200°C for 20–25 minutes until golden, turning once halfway.
What are the best sides to serve with this?
A crisp salad, pickles, or even fries or slaw. They also go great with rice or noodles for a fuller meal.
How spicy is this recipe?
It’s mild by default. Add chili flakes or cayenne for a kick.
Conclusion
These Crispy but Soft Inside Fried Potato Shrimp are more than just a snack—they’re a crave-worthy comfort food experience. Perfect for when you want something indulgent yet homemade, they combine familiar flavors in a new, exciting way. Each bite delivers crunch, creaminess, and savory depth thanks to the shrimp surprise in the middle.
Serve them hot, share them with loved ones, or keep a batch in your freezer for emergency cravings. One thing’s for sure: they’ll become your new favorite way to enjoy both potatoes and shrimp.