Shrimp and Cream Cheese Wontons Recipe

If you’re craving a snack that’s crispy, creamy, and packed with irresistible flavor, Shrimp and Cream Cheese Wontons are the ultimate treat. Imagine biting into golden, crunchy wrappers filled with tender shrimp, silky cream cheese, and a hint of savory aromatics – every mouthful is a little celebration. Whether you’re hosting friends or treating yourself on a cozy night in, these wontons hit all the right notes and disappear in a flash. With a short list of easy-to-find ingredients and quick cooking time, you’ll be amazed by how special and addictive they taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to unlocking the magic of Shrimp and Cream Cheese Wontons. Each one plays a vital role: juicy shrimp bring fresh seafood sweetness, while cream cheese ensures a luxurious filling that contrasts with the wrapper’s crunch.

• Shrimp (12 large, peeled and deveined): For the ultimate filling, opt for fresh, plump shrimp—they add a delightful bite and subtle sweetness.
• Cream cheese (4 oz, softened): The heart of your wonton filling, it contributes a luscious creaminess and helps meld all the flavors together.
• Green onion (1, finely chopped): A pop of color and mild oniony flavor perks up each bite.
• Garlic (1 clove, minced): Just a hint enhances the savory quality of the filling without overpowering the shrimp’s delicate taste.
• Soy sauce (1 tsp): A dash ties everything together with its salty, umami depth.
• Sesame oil (1/2 tsp): Just a splash gives that deliciously toasty aroma essential to so many Asian-inspired snacks.
• Wonton wrappers (12): Look for these in your supermarket’s refrigerated section; they fry up perfectly crisp and hold the filling beautifully.
• Egg (1, beaten): Acts as your edible glue for easy wonton assembly and perfect sealing.
• Vegetable oil (for frying): Choose a neutral oil to let the flavors of your filling shine while delivering that classic fried wonton crunch.
• Sweet chili sauce or soy sauce (for dipping, optional): Serve these on the side for an extra punch of flavor and a fun finishing touch.

How to Make Shrimp and Cream Cheese Wontons

Step 1: Prep the Shrimp

Start by chopping the shrimp into small, bite-sized pieces. Smaller chunks ensure every wonton has an even distribution of juicy shrimp, so you get a little seafood goodness in every bite. Set the chopped shrimp aside while you make the rest of the filling.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, green onion, minced garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Stir it all together until the mixture looks smooth and the aromatics are well distributed. Add the chopped shrimp to this creamy base and gently mix until everything is fully incorporated – you want each wonton to capture the best of all worlds: creamy, savory, and bright.

Step 3: Fill the Wontons

Lay out the wonton wrappers on a clean surface and place a heaping teaspoon of the shrimp and cream cheese mixture right at the center of each. Don’t overstuff—this helps the wrapper close neatly and prevents any leaks while frying.

Step 4: Seal the Wontons

Brush the edges of each wrapper with the beaten egg. Fold them into triangles or gather the corners to create little pouches, pressing the seams firmly to seal. Take care sealing – a tight seal is key for keeping all that creamy filling inside during frying.

Step 5: Fry Until Golden

Pour vegetable oil into a deep pan and heat it over medium-high. Once it’s hot (you can test by dipping the edge of a wonton in – it should sizzle immediately), fry the wontons in small batches for two to three minutes per side. They’ll puff up and turn beautifully golden and crisp almost before your eyes.

Step 6: Drain and Serve

Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried wontons to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any extra oil. Serve Shrimp and Cream Cheese Wontons hot and crunchy alongside your chosen dipping sauce for instant appetizer perfection.

How to Serve Shrimp and Cream Cheese Wontons

Garnishes

Liven up your plate by topping the wontons with extra sliced green onion, a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, or even a few fresh cilantro leaves. A little garnish goes a long way in making Shrimp and Cream Cheese Wontons look and taste even more festive.

Side Dishes

Pair these delectable wontons with simple sides that balance their bold flavors – a crisp Asian slaw, steaming bowl of miso soup, or a refreshing cucumber salad all work beautifully. For a heartier spread, set the wontons alongside fried rice or a light noodle dish.

Creative Ways to Present

Transform Shrimp and Cream Cheese Wontons into a centerpiece by arranging them tower-style on a serving platter, circling them around a bowl of dipping sauce, or even skewering them as bite-sized party picks. Play with presentation for extra fun at gatherings and potlucks!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The wonton wrappers will soften a bit after sitting, but they’ll still be utterly delicious as a late-night snack.

Freezing

To freeze, assemble the uncooked wontons and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. You can fry them straight from the freezer; just add an extra minute or two to the cooking time for Shrimp and Cream Cheese Wontons that taste freshly made.

Reheating

To restore their signature crispy texture, reheat leftover wontons in a 350°F (175°C) oven or air fryer for several minutes until hot and golden. Microwaving is quicker, but may make them a little softer instead of crisp.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp for Shrimp and Cream Cheese Wontons?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked shrimp, but for the very best texture and flavor, raw shrimp is ideal since it cooks up tender and juicy inside the wrapper as you fry.

What are some dipping sauce ideas besides sweet chili or soy sauce?

Try garlic-soy dipping sauce, a spicy sriracha mayo, hoisin sauce, or even a tangy ponzu for different flavor profiles that all pair wonderfully with Shrimp and Cream Cheese Wontons.

Can I bake these wontons instead of frying?

Absolutely! Brush assembled wontons with a little oil and bake on a parchment-lined tray at 400°F (200°C) for about 10–12 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.

Do I have to use cream cheese, or can I substitute it?

Cream cheese is classic for a creamy filling, but you can substitute with whipped ricotta or mascarpone for a different twist, just be aware that the flavor and texture will change a bit.

How do I keep the wontons from bursting when frying?

Be sure to seal the wrappers tightly and avoid overfilling. Also, don’t crowd the pan when frying; frying in batches helps maintain consistent temperature and keeps the oil from cooling too much, both of which help the wontons stay intact.

Final Thoughts

There’s something undeniably joyful about sharing a platter of Shrimp and Cream Cheese Wontons with people you love. Whether you’re a beginner or avid home cook, these crispy treats bring wow-factor with minimal effort. Give them a try and let this crowd-pleasing recipe become your new go-to appetizer or party snack — you might be surprised at how quickly they vanish!