Mini Shrimp Po' Boys

Name: Mini Shrimp Po' Boys
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Oil for frying; 4 mini baguettes; 1 cup shredded lettuce; 1/2 cup tomato, diced; Zesty remoulade sauce; Lemon wedges for serving

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love Mini Shrimp Po' Boys! This recipe took me by surprise with how easy and quick it is to whip up. Shrimp is tossed in a flavorful coating and then fried to crispy perfection, all packed into a mini baguette with fresh toppings. We often serve these during our casual get-togethers, and they never fail to impress. Trust me, once you try these adorable sandwiches, they'll soon become a favorite in your home too!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-30T18:34:37.487Z

When I first made these Mini Shrimp Po' Boys, I couldn't believe how delicious they turned out! I used a simple batter that perfectly clung to the shrimp, yielding a crunchy exterior that contrasted wonderfully with the soft bread. This combination takes just about 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option for any weeknight dinner or a fun appetizer.

I experimented with various toppings and found that a zesty remoulade pairs beautifully with the shrimp, elevating the flavor profile. Don’t forget a squeeze of fresh lemon juice on top for that added brightness, which really ties the dish together!

Why You'll Love These Mini Shrimp Po' Boys
Crispy shrimp combined with soft, fresh bread
Easy to prepare and perfect for gatherings
Customizable toppings for everyone’s taste

Perfecting the Shrimp

When preparing the shrimp for your Mini Shrimp Po' Boys, make sure to use shrimp that is fresh and properly deveined. The size of the shrimp can truly influence the outcome of your sandwich; smaller shrimp tend to hold up better in the frying process and offer a delightful bite-sized experience. It's also worth noting that using shrimp with tails removed can make assembly quicker and mess-free.

The dredging mixture is crucial to achieving that perfect crispy coating. I recommend using panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch, as they provide a lighter texture than traditional breadcrumbs. Don't rush the dredging process; ensure that each shrimp is evenly coated, shaking off any excess to prevent clumping. This step is key in ensuring that your shrimp fry up beautifully without sticking together.

Frying Technique

The type of oil you choose for frying can greatly affect the flavor and texture of your shrimp. I recommend using oils with a high smoke point, such as vegetable or canola oil, as they can withstand the heat without imparting unwanted flavors. Heat your oil to about 350°F (175°C) before frying to achieve that crispy texture; you can test the oil by dropping in a breadcrumb—if it sizzles immediately, it's ready.

Frying in small batches is essential to prevent the temperature of the oil from dropping. This helps ensure that each shrimp cooks evenly and achieves that perfect golden-brown hue. Cooking in batches of about 6-8 shrimp allows for space and easier flipping, so don’t overcrowd the pan. Once done, letting the shrimp drain on paper towels will absorb excess oil, helping maintain their crispness until serving.

Ingredients for Mini Shrimp Po' Boys

For the Shrimp

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Oil for frying

For the Assembly

4 mini baguettes
1 cup shredded lettuce
1/2 cup tomato, diced
Zesty remoulade sauce
Lemon wedges for serving

Cooking Steps for Mini Shrimp Po' Boys

Prepare the Shrimp

In a bowl, mix the flour, breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Dredge the shrimp in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.

Fry the Shrimp

Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the shrimp in batches for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Assemble the Po' Boys

Cut the mini baguettes in half and layer with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and crispy shrimp. Drizzle with zesty remoulade sauce and serve with lemon wedges.

Pro Tips

For an even crispier texture, try using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs. Serve these sandwiches immediately after assembling for the best taste and texture.

Serving Suggestions

These Mini Shrimp Po' Boys shine when served fresh, but don't hesitate to get creative with your toppings! You can add slices of avocado or pickles for a creamy or tangy twist. For an additional kick, consider tossing in some sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper with the lettuce. This versatility allows you to cater to every palate during your gatherings.

For a more authentic experience, serve your Po' Boys with homemade French fries or a side of coleslaw. This not only complements the sandwich but also enhances the casual dining atmosphere. You may also consider pairing them with a cold beverage, such as a refreshing lemonade or a light beer, to round out the meal and create a delightful dining experience.

Storing and Reheating

If you happen to have leftovers, you can store the fried shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To keep the shrimp crispy when reheating, consider using an air fryer or a toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. This method helps retain their crunch, unlike microwaving, which can make them soggy.

For meal prep, you can fry the shrimp in advance and assemble the Po' Boys just before serving. The shrimp can be refrigerated after frying, and assembled with fresh ingredients right at the time of serving. Just make sure to let the shrimp cool completely before storing them to maintain their texture and to avoid unwanted condensation.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before breading.

→ What can I substitute for remoulade sauce?

You can try using a mix of mayo with hot sauce and a squeeze of lemon juice as a quick alternative.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

The shrimp are best served fresh, but you can prepare the shrimp and remoulade in advance, and fry them just before serving.

→ What side dishes pair well with Mini Shrimp Po' Boys?

Coleslaw, French fries, or a simple green salad make excellent side dishes with these sandwiches.