Description
Succulent Mediterranean-inspired cheesy shrimp squares deliver Mediterranean coastal flavors in one delightful bite. Crisp appetizer perfection brings seafood and cheese together, promising a quick crowd-pleasing starter you cannot resist.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cream cheese
Baking Base:
- 2 sheets puff pastry
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Seasoning and Herbs:
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Thaw puff pastry sheets at room temperature for approximately 30 minutes until pliable and easy to handle.
- Preheat oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Pat shrimp completely dry using paper towels to ensure proper seasoning adherence and prevent excess moisture.
- Combine garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl, then generously season the shrimp with the spice mixture.
- Dust work surface with flour and gently roll out each puff pastry sheet to create a slightly thinner, more even surface.
- Spread cream cheese evenly across one pastry sheet, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Arrange seasoned shrimp in a single layer over the cream cheese, ensuring even distribution.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and chopped parsley uniformly across the shrimp.
- Carefully place the second pastry sheet on top, pressing edges to seal and create a cohesive square.
- Brush the top pastry layer with olive oil to promote golden, crispy browning.
- Cut the pastry into equal-sized squares using a sharp knife.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes until pastry turns golden brown and cheese melts completely.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow filling to set.
- Slice into individual squares and serve warm as an appetizer or light meal.
Notes
- Always ensure shrimp are thoroughly patted dry to prevent soggy pastry and enhance seasoning absorption.
- Experiment with different cheese variations like gouda or pepper jack for unique flavor profiles that complement the shrimp.
- For gluten-free alternatives, substitute puff pastry with almond flour-based pastry or gluten-free phyllo dough.
- Prepare ahead by assembling squares and refrigerating up to 4 hours before baking, which can intensify flavor development.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 18-22 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 345
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 420 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 21 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 14 g
- Cholesterol: 150 mg