How to Make a Delicious Shrimp Roll: Step-by-Step Recipe

Did you know that shrimp is America’s most popular seafood, with the average American consuming over 4.6 pounds annually? Yet, when it comes to preparing the perfect shrimp roll, 68% of home cooks report feeling intimidated by the process. Your recipe for a delicious shrimp roll doesn’t need to be complicated or time-consuming.

In fact, crafting this coastal favorite at home can be surprisingly simple while delivering restaurant-quality results. This step-by-step guide will walk you through creating a mouth-watering shrimp roll that balances fresh seafood flavors with creamy, herbal notes – all served in a perfectly toasted bun.

Ingredients List

For the shrimp roll filling (serves 4):

• 1 pound (16 oz) medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tablespoons high-quality mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, minced
• 1 stalk celery, finely diced (about 1/4 cup)
• 1/4 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For serving:

• 4 New England-style split-top hot dog buns
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges

Ingredient substitutions:

• Greek yogurt or avocado mayo can replace traditional mayonnaise for a lighter option
• Brioche buns or ciabatta rolls work well if split-top buns aren’t available
• Dried herbs can substitute fresh ones at 1/3 the quantity (though fresh provides superior flavor)
• Cajun seasoning offers a spicier alternative to Old Bay

Timing

• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 10 minutes
• Total time: 25 minutes

This shrimp roll recipe comes together in just 25 minutes – approximately 40% faster than traditional lobster roll recipes while delivering equally impressive results. The quick preparation time makes this an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or last-minute entertaining.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Bring a medium pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes. Be vigilant during this step – overcooked shrimp become rubbery and tough. You’ll know they’re done when they form a loose “C” shape; if they curl into a tight “O,” they’ve cooked too long.

Immediately transfer the shrimp to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. This temperature shock preserves their tender texture and bright flavor. Once cooled (about 1 minute), drain thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels.

Step 2: Chop the Shrimp

Place the cooled shrimp on a cutting board and chop into bite-sized pieces – approximately 1/2-inch chunks. The ideal shrimp roll has varied textures, so aim for pieces that are substantial enough to provide a satisfying bite but small enough to blend with other ingredients.

For a more luxurious presentation, consider leaving 4-6 whole shrimp aside to garnish the tops of your finished rolls.

Step 3: Mix the Filling

In a medium bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, mayonnaise, lemon juice, dill, chives, diced celery, and Old Bay seasoning. Gently fold the ingredients together, being careful not to overmix or mash the shrimp pieces. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld – this brief resting period makes a noticeable difference in depth of flavor.

Step 4: Prepare the Buns

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Butter the outer sides of each split-top bun. Place the buns in the skillet, buttered sides down, and toast until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.

A properly toasted bun provides essential structural support for your shrimp filling while adding a rich, buttery contrast to the fresh seafood flavors. The slight crispness of the exterior also prevents the roll from becoming soggy.

Step 5: Assemble Your Shrimp Rolls

Remove the shrimp mixture from the refrigerator and give it a quick stir. Divide the filling evenly among the toasted buns. For an elegant presentation, place any reserved whole shrimp on top.

Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side. The final squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before eating adds a bright, zesty note that elevates the entire dish.

Nutritional Information

Per shrimp roll (1 serving):

• Calories: 325
• Protein: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 23g
• Fat: 15g (Saturated fat: 5g)
• Cholesterol: 185mg
• Sodium: 890mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g

Shrimp is an excellent lean protein source, providing approximately 24 grams per serving while remaining relatively low in calories. Compared to other seafood roll options, the shrimp roll contains about 30% fewer calories than a typical lobster roll and 25% less fat than most crab roll recipes.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Transform your shrimp roll into an even more nutritious meal with these simple modifications:

1. Lighter Dressing Base: Substitute half or all of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt to reduce fat content by up to 70% while adding protein and calcium.
2. Whole Grain Buns: Swap traditional white rolls for whole grain options to increase fiber content by approximately 3 grams per serving.
3. Vegetable Boost: Double the celery and add 1/4 cup diced cucumber or radish for extra crunch, fiber, and vitamins with minimal additional calories.
4. Avocado Addition: Replace 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise with mashed avocado to incorporate heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and potassium.
5. Herb Infusion: Increase fresh herbs to 2 tablespoons each of dill and chives to enhance flavor without additional calories while adding antioxidants and micronutrients.

These modifications can reduce the calorie count by up to 80 calories per serving while enhancing the nutritional profile.

Serving Suggestions

Elevate your shrimp roll experience with these complementary side dishes and presentation ideas:

• Classic Pairing: Serve alongside kettle-cooked potato chips and dill pickle spears for a traditional New England seafood shack experience.
• Refined Approach: Present with a light fennel and citrus slaw dressed in olive oil and white wine vinegar for a refreshing contrast.
• Summer Picnic: Package individual rolls in parchment paper tied with twine for an Instagram-worthy portable meal, perfect for beach outings.
• Appetizer Variation: Create mini shrimp rolls using dinner rolls or slider buns for an elegant party appetizer that serves 8-10 guests.
• Seasonal Adaptation: In warmer months, serve with watermelon, feta, and mint salad; in cooler weather, pair with a cup of New England clam chowder.

For an interactive dining experience, consider creating a “build-your-own” shrimp roll bar with various toppings like sliced avocado, microgreens, pickled red onions, and assorted herbs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced cooks can fall prey to these pitfalls when preparing shrimp rolls:

1. Overcooking the Shrimp: According to a survey of professional chefs, overcooking is the #1 mistake in seafood preparation. Cook shrimp just until opaque and immediately transfer to an ice bath.
2. Skipping the Drying Step: Failing to thoroughly pat the shrimp dry results in a watery filling that can make your bun soggy. Take the extra 60 seconds for this crucial step.
3. Over-mixing the Filling: Stirring too vigorously breaks down the shrimp texture and releases excess moisture. Fold gently for the best consistency.
4. Under-seasoning: Seafood salads require proper seasoning to shine. Taste before assembling and adjust accordingly.
5. Using Cold Buns: Toasting room-temperature (not refrigerated) buns ensures even browning and optimal texture contrast with the cool filling.
6. Preparing Too Far Ahead: The ideal serving window is within 30 minutes of assembly. Beyond that, the bun’s texture begins to deteriorate.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Maximize freshness and convenience with these storage strategies:

For prepared ingredients:

• Cooked Shrimp: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The texture is best within the first 24 hours.
• Shrimp Salad Filling: Can be prepared up to 8 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors actually improve after 1-2 hours of melding.
• Toasted Buns: Best prepared just before serving, but can be toasted up to 2 hours ahead and kept at room temperature in a paper bag (not plastic, which traps moisture).

For leftovers:

• Store assembled shrimp rolls wrapped individually in parchment paper, then in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
• For meal prep, store components separately: filling in an airtight container, buns at room temperature, and toast just before assembly.
• Freezing is not recommended as both the mayonnaise-based filling and the buns deteriorate significantly when thawed.

Conclusion

Creating the perfect shrimp roll combines simple techniques with quality ingredients for a delicious result. This versatile recipe balances fresh seafood with creamy dressing and herbs, all nestled in a buttery toasted bun – ready in just 25 minutes. The dish offers a satisfying taste of coastal cuisine that’s adaptable for various occasions and dietary preferences.

Have you tried making this shrimp roll recipe? We’d love to hear your feedback in the comments section below! Share your experience, any creative adaptations, or questions you might have. Don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for weekly recipe inspiration delivered straight to your inbox.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe? A: Absolutely! Thaw frozen shrimp overnight in the refrigerator or under cold running water if you’re short on time. Ensure they’re completely thawed before cooking, and pat them thoroughly dry to remove excess moisture.

Q: How can I tell when the shrimp are perfectly cooked? A: Perfectly cooked shrimp turn pink, become opaque, and form a loose “C” shape. If they curl into a tight “O” shape, they’re overcooked. For medium shrimp, this typically takes 2-3 minutes in boiling water.

Q: Can I prepare the shrimp filling a day ahead? A: Yes, the filling can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance. However, for optimal texture and flavor, it’s best enjoyed within 8 hours of preparation. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and give it a gentle stir before assembling.

Q: What’s the best substitute for mayonnaise in this recipe? A: Greek yogurt makes an excellent substitute, providing a tangy flavor and creamy texture with fewer calories. For a dairy-free option, avocado mayo or a high-quality olive oil-based mayo alternative works well.

Q: How can I make this recipe gluten-free? A: Simply substitute gluten-free hot dog buns or rolls for the traditional New England-style buns. Also, verify that your Old Bay seasoning (or alternative) is certified gluten-free, as some seasoning blends contain hidden gluten.

Q: What wine pairs well with shrimp rolls? A: A crisp, chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the delicate flavors of the shrimp roll beautifully. For beer lovers, a light pilsner or wheat beer makes a refreshing accompaniment.