The moment I took the first bite of my chunky shrimp burger topped with avocado aioli, I knew I had discovered something special. This recipe blends the wholesome taste of seafood with the comfort of a classic burger, offering a vibrant and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. With quick prep and loads of flavor, these chunky shrimp burgers not only deliver on taste, but they also present a healthful alternative to fast food cravings. Made with fresh shrimp and creamy avocado, they’re a delightful way to impress family and friends alike. Are you ready to dive into a culinary adventure that will leave your taste buds dancing?

Why Are These Burgers So Exciting?

Flavor Explosion: Each bite of these chunky shrimp burgers is a wonderful blend of the ocean’s goodness, perfectly complemented by creamy avocado aioli.

Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time, making it an ideal weeknight dish.

Versatile Options: Feel free to experiment with spices or swap out the avocado aioli for Cilantro Lime Dressing if you’re looking for a fresh twist!

Health-Conscious Choice: Packed with protein and healthy fats, these burgers offer a heart-healthy alternative to fast food cravings without sacrificing flavor.

Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for impressing family and friends, these burgers are just as great for summer BBQs or cozy dinners at home.

Chunky Shrimp Burger Ingredients

For the Patties

Jumbo Shrimp – Provides the main protein; use fresh or frozen. Note: Ensure shrimp are thawed if using frozen.
Breadcrumbs – Adds structure and binds the burger patties together. Substitution: Use panko for extra crunch.
Garlic – Enhances flavor; finely minced for a stronger taste. Substitution: Garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
Green Onions – Adds freshness and texture; chopped. Substitution: Chives can be used if unavailable.
Egg – Acts as a binder; ensures burgers hold together. Substitution: Flax egg for a vegan option (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water).

For the Avocado Aioli

Avocado – Main component of the aioli; creamy texture and healthy fats. Note: Ensure avocados are ripe for the best flavor.
Lemon Juice – Brightens flavor in the aioli; freshly squeezed for maximum freshness. Substitution: Lime juice can be used as an alternative.
Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chunky Shrimp Burgers with Avocado Aioli Sauce

Step 1: Prep the Shrimp
Start by thawing the jumbo shrimp if they are frozen. Once thawed, chop the shrimp into small chunks, aiming for about 1/2-inch pieces to ensure even cooking in your chunky shrimp burgers. This will create a delightful mix of textures in your burger patties. Set aside while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped shrimp with breadcrumbs, finely minced garlic, chopped green onions, and the egg. Using your hands or a spatula, mix everything until well combined. The mixture should be slightly sticky but hold together; this binding is essential for your chunky shrimp burgers to maintain their shape while cooking.

Step 3: Form the Patties
With clean hands, shape the shrimp mixture into burger patties, roughly 3/4 inch thick. Place the formed patties on a plate or cutting board. Once shaped, cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling helps the patties firm up, making them easier to cook without falling apart.

Step 4: Make the Avocado Aioli
While the patties are chilling, prepare the creamy avocado aioli. In a small mixing bowl, mash a ripe avocado and mix it with freshly squeezed lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and well combined, creating a luscious, tangy sauce that will perfectly complement your chunky shrimp burgers.

Step 5: Cook the Patties
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a touch of oil to coat the bottom. Once hot, carefully add the chilled shrimp patties to the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. Ensure not to overcrowd the pan, allowing each patty to get that beautiful, crispy exterior.

Step 6: Assemble the Burgers
Once the chunky shrimp patties are golden brown and cooked, it’s time to put your burgers together. Toast some brioche buns for added texture and warmth. Place each cooked patty on the bottom half of the bun, generously topping it with your homemade avocado aioli. Finish with the top bun and prepare to serve these delicious burgers!

What to Serve with Chunky Shrimp Burgers with Avocado Aioli Sauce

Transform your meal into a culinary experience that excites the senses and satisfies every craving.

Sweet Potato Fries: These crispy, naturally sweet fries contrast beautifully with the savory shrimp burgers and add a delightful crunch.
Fresh Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a citrus vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance to the rich flavors of the burgers. The zesty dressing brightens each bite.
Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw adds a crunchy, tangy touch that complements the rich avocado aioli, enhancing the overall texture and flavor profile.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, charred corn provides fantastic summer vibes and an exciting contrast to the delicate shrimp flavor.
Cucumber Tomato Salad: The cool crunch of cucumbers and juicy tomatoes tossed in olive oil and herbs refreshes the palate, making it a perfect sidekick.
Lemonade or Iced Tea: A tall glass of lemonade or iced tea, with or without a hint of mint, serves as a refreshing and light beverage option to wash down the meal.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: A warm cookie with gooey chocolate chips for dessert provides a sweet ending to your meal, leaving everyone satisfied.

These pairings not only enhance the experience of your chunky shrimp burgers but also elevate the meal to a delightful feast, inviting friends and family to savor each delicious moment.

Chunky Shrimp Burgers with Avocado Aioli Variations

Feel free to get creative and personalize your chunky shrimp burgers with these exciting twists!

Spicy Kick: Add Cayenne Pepper to the shrimp mixture for a delightful heat that will tingle your taste buds. Just a pinch goes a long way in taking these burgers to the next level!
Crunchy Texture: Substitute Panko for regular breadcrumbs to provide extra crunch in your patties. The light, airy texture creates a golden crispy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the tender shrimp.
Alternative Aioli: Swap the Avocado Aioli for a tangy Cilantro Lime Dressing for a bright, zesty flavor profile. This fresh option pairs wonderfully with the shrimp, perfect for sunny days!
Different Seafood: Experiment with Crab Meat or Scallops instead of shrimp for a luxurious twist. Each seafood brings its own unique flavor, creating totally different but equally delicious burgers.
Herb Infusion: Mix in chopped Fresh Herbs like dill or parsley into the patty mixture for a burst of freshness. This enhances the overall flavor, making each bite smell as vibrant as it tastes!
Vegan Option: For a meatless version, replace shrimp with chopped Chickpeas and use a flax egg instead of a regular egg. You’ll enjoy a deliciously unique patty that doesn’t skimp on flavor!
Creamy Boost: Add Greek Yogurt to the avocado aioli for a thicker, creamy texture. Not only does this enrich the sauce, but it also enhances the tangy flavor.
Savory Spice Blend: Incorporate Smoked Paprika into the shrimp mixture for a depth of flavor that elevates your burgers. The smokiness adds an unexpected twist that complements the other ingredients perfectly.

As you dive into these variations, you’ll discover new flavors and combinations that might just become new family favorites. For another delightful twist on seafood, check out our Shrimp Boil Foil for an easy weeknight dinner!

Make Ahead Options

These Chunky Shrimp Burgers with Avocado Aioli Sauce are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts aiming to save time during busy weeknights! You can mix the shrimp patty ingredients and form the patties up to 24 hours in advance; just be sure to cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain freshness. Additionally, the creamy avocado aioli can be prepared a day ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge—this not only deepens the flavors but also prevents browning (add a small amount of lemon juice for extra protection). When you’re ready to serve, simply cook the patties in a skillet for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Enjoy deliciously quick and satisfying meals with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for Chunky Shrimp Burgers

Chilling is Key: Make sure to refrigerate the patties for at least one hour before cooking; this helps them hold together better during the cooking process.

Don’t Overcrowd: When cooking your chunky shrimp burgers, avoid cramming too many patties in the skillet at once. This ensures even cooking and a delightful crispy texture.

Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh ingredients, especially shrimp and avocado, as their quality greatly influences the overall taste of your burgers.

Adjust Seasonings: Taste your shrimp mixture before forming patties; adjust salt and pepper to your liking to ensure a flavorful bite every time.

Watch the Heat: Cook patties on medium heat to achieve that perfect golden brown color without burning. High heat can create a crispy exterior but leave the interior undercooked.

How to Store and Freeze Chunky Shrimp Burgers

Fridge: Store cooked chunky shrimp burgers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to let them cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze uncooked patties for up to a month. Place them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible.

Reheating: To reheat, gently pan-fry the frozen patties over medium heat for about 5-6 minutes on each side until heated through. Avoid using the microwave to maintain texture.

Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare chunky shrimp burgers ahead of time and keep them refrigerated for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Chunky Shrimp Burgers with Avocado Aioli Sauce Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe avocados for the aioli?
Absolutely! Look for avocados that are slightly soft when gently squeezed. They should yield just a bit without feeling mushy. Avoid avocados with dark spots all over, as that can indicate overripeness or spoilage. If you have hard avocados, you can let them ripen at room temperature for a few days before using them.

How should I store leftover shrimp burgers?
Very good question! Store cooked chunky shrimp burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to let them cool completely before sealing the container to keep the burgers nice and fresh.

Can I freeze the shrimp burger patties?
Absolutely! For freezing, place the uncooked shrimp patties on a baking sheet and freeze them until firm, about an hour. Once firm, transfer them to a zip-top bag and remove as much air as possible. You can freeze them for up to a month; when you’re ready to enjoy, simply cook them straight from frozen, increasing the cooking time slightly.

What should I do if my shrimp patties fall apart while cooking?
No one wants a messy burger! If your shrimp patties are falling apart, it’s likely due to a lack of binder or not chilling them long enough. Ensure you’ve added enough breadcrumbs and the egg to help them stick together. Also, chilling the patties for at least an hour is key to firming them up. If you’re still having issues, try adding an extra tablespoon of breadcrumbs to the mixture before shaping the patties.

Are chunky shrimp burgers safe for pets?
It’s best to avoid sharing these shrimp burgers with your furry friends. While shrimp itself is generally safe for dogs in small amounts (without seasonings), the aioli contains lemon juice and avocado, both of which can be harmful to pets. Always consult your vet regarding specific dietary concerns for your animals.

Can I make these burgers gluten-free?
Certainly! For a gluten-free version, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers in place of traditional breadcrumbs. This substitution will help maintain the burger’s structure while ensuring that everyone can enjoy these delicious chunky shrimp burgers!