Shrimp Cakes with Lemon Aioli
Shrimp Cakes with Lemon Aioli are a delicious and crispy seafood dish made from finely chopped shrimp mixed with herbs, breadcrumbs, and seasonings. They’re shaped into small patties, pan fried until golden brown, and served with a creamy lemon aioli dipping sauce. The lemon aioli adds a tangy, zesty flavor that perfectly complements the savory taste of the shrimp cakes.

These shrimp cakes are light, crispy, and bursting with fresh flavor great for dinner, parties, or even a quick snack. They can be served on their own, in sandwiches, or alongside your favorite sides like salad, fries, or roasted veggies.
You Should Try the Shrimp Cakes with Lemon Aioli
You should definitely try Shrimp Cakes with Lemon Aioli because they’re easy to make, fun to eat, and absolutely delicious! This recipe turns simple shrimp into something fancy but simple enough for anyone to make at home. The golden crust on the shrimp cakes gives a nice crunch, while the inside stays juicy and flavorful. The lemon aioli makes them extra special, adding a creamy and tangy twist that kids and adults both love.
If you’ve ever had crab cakes before, shrimp cakes are a lighter and more affordable version. Plus, they’re packed with protein, easy to store, and reheat well making them perfect for busy days or meal prep.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Shrimp Cakes with Lemon Aioli
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this Shrimp Cakes with Lemon Aioli
For the Shrimp Cakes
- 1 pound raw shrimp peeled, deveined, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs plain or panko
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons green onions chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for frying
For the Lemon Aioli
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 small garlic clove minced
- A pinch of salt and pepper
How to Make Shrimp Cakes with Lemon Aioli
Step One
The first thing you need to do is prepare the shrimp: Start by cleaning and finely chopping them. You can also pulse them several times in a food processor if you prefer a smoother texture.
Step Two
Now, combine the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, eggs, green onions, parsley, mustard, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.

Step Three
Then form the cakes: Using your hands, form the mixture into small discs, about 2-3 inches wide. Place them on a plate and refrigerate for 10-15 minutes to firm up.
Step Four
Now, it’s time to cook the shrimp cakes: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the shrimp cakes in batches don’t crowd the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden and crispy.
Step Five
To prepare the lemon aioli: While the shrimp cakes are cooking, combine the mayonnaise, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Stir until smooth and creamy.

Step Sixe
Finally, serve: Place the shrimp cakes on a serving platter and drizzle with the lemon aioli, or serve them with the dish. Add a few lemon slices or fresh herbs for a delicious finishing touch.
Kitchen Equipment Needed :
Before you start cooking, gather the tools you’ll need:
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Frying pan or skillet
- Spatula
- Mixing spoon
- Paper towels
- Small bowl for aioli
Tips for Perfect Shrimp Cakes
Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor.
Chill the patties before frying so they hold their shape.
Don’t overmix it can make the cakes tough.
Use a nonstick skillet to prevent sticking.
Serving Suggestion
I like to serve this shrimp with a green salad, French fries, or sweet potatoes. As for drinks, I like to serve it with fruit juice or lemonade.

Frequently Asked Question
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe ?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before chopping or mixing. Too much moisture can make the cakes fall apart.
Can I freeze shrimp cakes ?
Definitely! Freeze cooked or uncooked shrimp cakes by placing them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months.
What can I use instead of breadcrumbs ?
You can use crushed crackers, panko, almond flour, or even oatmeal for a gluten-free version.
Can I use lime instead of lemon for the aioli ?
Yes! Lime adds a slightly different but equally delicious tangy flavor.
Shrimp Cakes with Lemon Aioli
Course: Main Course, AppetizersCuisine: American, SeafoodDifficulty: Easy4
servings20
minutes10
minutes280
kcal30
minutesThese Shrimp Cakes with Lemon Aioli are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with fresh shrimp flavor. Paired with a zesty homemade lemon aioli, they make the perfect easy weeknight dinner or party appetizer. Quick to make, kid-friendly, and bursting with tangy, savory goodness!
Ingredients
1 pound raw shrimp peeled, deveined, finely chopped
1/2 cup breadcrumbs plain or panko
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 large egg
2 tablespoons green onions chopped
1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil for frying
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon lemon juice freshly squeezed
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 small garlic clove minced
A pinch of salt and pepper
Directions
- The first thing you need to do is prepare the shrimp: Start by cleaning and finely chopping them. You can also pulse them several times in a food processor if you prefer a smoother texture.
- Now, combine the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, eggs, green onions, parsley, mustard, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.
- Then form the cakes: Using your hands, form the mixture into small discs, about 2-3 inches wide. Place them on a plate and refrigerate for 10-15 minutes to firm up.
- Now, it's time to cook the shrimp cakes: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the shrimp cakes in batches don't crowd the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden and crispy.
- To prepare the lemon aioli: While the shrimp cakes are cooking, combine the mayonnaise, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Stir until smooth and creamy.
- Finally, serve: Place the shrimp cakes on a serving platter and drizzle with the lemon aioli, or serve them with the dish. Add a few lemon slices or fresh herbs for a delicious finishing touch.
Notes
- Pat shrimp dry Before chopping, remove extra moisture with a paper towel to keep the mixture firm.
- Season well Shrimp have a mild flavor, so add enough salt, pepper, and spices.
- Drain on paper towels After frying, rest the cakes on paper towels to remove extra oil.
- Customize the aioli Add honey, garlic, or herbs to the lemon aioli for extra flavor.
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