Crispy Baked Popcorn Shrimp Delight
Baked Popcorn Shrimp Delight is a healthier alternative to traditional fried popcorn shrimp, perfect for those who want to enjoy delicious seafood without the overpowering smell of frying. This recipe features tender, succulent medium shrimp coated in a crispy, flavorful blend of seasoned breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. The addition of cayenne pepper gives a subtle kick, balancing the savory notes for a delightful bite. Easy to prepare and satisfying to eat, these shrimp make a perfect appetizer or main dish that your family and friends will love.
4
Servings
94
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
large egg
1 (beaten)
fat-free half-and-half
2 tablespoons (none)
seasoned bread crumbs
1/3 cup (none)
grated parmesan cheese
1/3 cup (none)
cayenne pepper
1/4 teaspoon (none)
medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 lb (peeled and deveined)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the egg and fat-free half-and-half until well combined.
3
In another bowl, mix together the seasoned breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and cayenne pepper until evenly distributed.
4
Dip each peeled and deveined shrimp into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off.
5
Next, coat the shrimp thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the coating adheres well.
6
Arrange the coated shrimp in a single layer on a foil-lined baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
7
Once all the shrimp are coated, discard any leftover egg mixture and breadcrumb mixture.
8
Bake the shrimp in the preheated oven for 7 to 9 minutes, or until they are pink and opaque, and the coating is golden and crispy.
9
Remove from the oven and serve immediately, with a side of your favorite dipping sauce if desired.
Nutrition Information
2g
Fat
7g
Carbs
13g
Protein
0.5g
Fiber
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Crispy Baked Popcorn Shrimp Delight?
It is a healthier, oven-baked alternative to traditional fried popcorn shrimp featuring a crispy breadcrumb and Parmesan coating.
Is this recipe healthy?
Yes, it is a low-fat seafood option with only 2g of fat and 94 calories per serving, making it a nutritious choice.
Is the shrimp fried or baked?
This shrimp is baked in the oven at 350°F to avoid the heavy oil and smell associated with traditional deep-frying.
At what temperature should I preheat the oven?
You should preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before baking the shrimp.
How long do the shrimp need to bake?
The shrimp bake for approximately 7 to 9 minutes until they are pink, opaque, and the coating is golden.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, but ensure they are completely thawed, peeled, and deveined before you begin the breading process.
Do I need to peel the shrimp?
Yes, the recipe specifies using 1 lb of medium shrimp that are already peeled and deveined.
What size shrimp are best for this recipe?
Medium-sized shrimp are ideal for achieving the perfect 'popcorn' style bite.
What ingredients are in the breading mixture?
The coating consists of a blend of seasoned breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and a 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper.
How do I get the coating to stick to the shrimp?
Dip the shrimp into a whisked mixture of egg and fat-free half-and-half before coating them with the breadcrumbs.
Does this recipe contain cheese?
Yes, it uses 1/3 cup of grated Parmesan cheese mixed into the breading for extra flavor and crunch.
Can I use fat-free half-and-half?
Yes, the recipe specifically calls for 2 tablespoons of fat-free half-and-half to be mixed with the egg.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 94 calories.
What is the protein content per serving?
There are 13 grams of protein in each serving of this shrimp dish.
How much fat is in this dish?
This recipe is very low in fat, containing only 2 grams per serving.
Is there any sugar in these shrimp?
Based on the nutritional data provided, this recipe contains no sugar.
How do I know when the shrimp are fully cooked?
The shrimp are cooked when they turn pink and opaque throughout and the outer coating is golden and crispy.
What gives this shrimp a spicy kick?
A 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper is added to the breading to provide a subtle, savory heat.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, it is tagged as kid-friendly and makes for a great bite-sized meal or snack that children enjoy.
Can this be served as a main dish?
Absolutely, these shrimp can be served as either a satisfying main course or as a popular appetizer.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to produce 4 servings.
Is this recipe considered Cajun style?
Yes, the combination of shrimp and cayenne pepper gives it a Cajun flavor profile.
What should I use to line my baking sheet?
The instructions recommend using a foil-lined baking sheet for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Can I prepare these in advance for a crowd?
Yes, they are tagged as a 'crowd-pleaser' and are quick to prepare, making them great for hosting.
How many total ingredients are required?
There are 6 total ingredients: egg, half-and-half, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, cayenne pepper, and shrimp.
Are these shrimp high in carbohydrates?
No, they are relatively low in carbs, containing only 7 grams per serving.
What preparation is needed for the egg?
One large egg should be beaten before being whisked with the fat-free half-and-half.
How should I arrange the shrimp on the baking sheet?
Arrange them in a single layer and ensure they are not overcrowded to allow them to crisp evenly.
Is there much fiber in this recipe?
There is a small amount of fiber, approximately 0.5 grams per serving.
Can I use this for a quick weeknight meal?
Yes, with a baking time of under 10 minutes, it is perfect for a fast and easy weeknight meal.