Deep-Fried Shrimp Alfredo Burrito Bites

This is a fantastic and creative fusion idea. Here is a complete, detailed recipe for your Deep-Fried Shrimp Alfredo Burrito Bites, expanding on your ingredients with necessary additions and instructions.

Deep-Fried Shrimp Alfredo Burrito Bites 🍤🌯

A crispy, golden exterior gives way to a creamy, cheesy, and savory filling in these irresistible appetizer bites.

Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled, deveined, and tails removed, chopped into ½-inch pieces

• 1 cup Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• (Optional) ¼ tsp red pepper flakes for a kick

For Assembly:

• 4 large (10-inch) flour tortillas

• 1 cup all-purpose flour, placed in a shallow dish

• 2 large eggs, beaten with 1 tbsp water (egg wash)

• 2 cups Panko breadcrumbs (for the crispiest coating)

• Oil for deep frying (canola, vegetable, or peanut oil)

For Serving:

• Lemon wedges

• Extra warmed Alfredo sauce for dipping

• Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling:

• In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped shrimp and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes, just until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through. Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using).

• Transfer the shrimp to a mixing bowl and let it cool for a few minutes.

• To the bowl, add the Alfredo sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until everything is well combined. The cheese will help the filling hold together.

2. Assemble the Burrito Bites:

• Warm the tortillas: Microwave the tortillas between damp paper towels for 30 seconds to make them pliable and prevent cracking.

• Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spoon about ¾ cup of the shrimp Alfredo mixture onto the lower third of the tortilla, shaping it into a log.

• Fold tightly: Fold the bottom edge of the tortilla up and over the filling. Fold the two sides in towards the center. Roll tightly away from you to form a secure burrito. Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling.

• Chill: Place the rolled burritos seam-side down on a plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This crucial step helps them firm up and makes them much easier to cut and fry without falling apart.

3. Bread the Burritos:

• After chilling, use a sharp serrated knife to slice each burrito into 4-6 even “bites.”

• Set up a breading station with three dishes: one with flour, one with the egg wash, and one with Panko breadcrumbs.

• Dredge each burrito bite in flour, shaking off the excess. Then dip it fully into the egg wash, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, roll it in the Panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure they adhere completely.

4. Deep Frying:

• In a heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). It’s important to use a thermometer for accuracy.

• Carefully lower 4-5 bites into the hot oil at a time using a slotted spoon or spider strainer. Do not overcrowd the pot, as it will lower the oil temperature.

• Fry for 2-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy.

• Remove the bites from the oil and drain on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. This keeps them crispy instead of getting soggy on a paper towel.

5. Serve Immediately:

• Serve the bites hot and crispy, garnished with chopped parsley and with lemon wedges and extra warmed Alfredo sauce on the side for dipping.

Chef’s Notes & Tips:

• Make-Ahead: You can assemble and bread the bites a few hours ahead of time. Keep them refrigerated on a parchment-lined tray until you’re ready to fry.

• Baking Option: For a slightly lighter version, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the breaded bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spray generously with cooking spray, and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and heated through. (They won’t be as uniformly crispy as deep-fried but are still delicious).

• Air Frying Option: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the breaded bites in a single layer in the basket (work in batches). Spray generously with oil and air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.

• Filling Variations: Feel free to add finely chopped cooked spinach or mushrooms to the filling for an extra flavor dimension.

Enjoy your delicious, innovative creation