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This crispy shrimp toast turns an ordinary baguette into a knockout starter that'll keep folks circling back for more. The mix of juicy shrimp and gooey cheese creates an irresistible topping for those crunchy, golden bread pieces that vanish minutes after hitting the table.
I whipped these up during a Christmas get-together when I suddenly needed another finger food option. They were such a smash that guests were asking how to make them before they even left, and now they're a regular at my parties.
Ingredients
- French baguette: Cut into chunky half-inch slices for that perfect crunchy foundation
- Shrimp: Brings a sweet ocean flavor and substantial bite when chopped right
- Onion and celery: Form the tasty base that adds richness
- Garlic: Gives that must-have tang that works wonders with seafood
- Cajun seasoning: Adds a bit of Louisiana magic with just enough kick
- Cream cheese: Delivers smoothness that holds everything in place
- Parmesan cheese: Offers savory nutty notes that boost the shrimp flavor
- Fontina cheese: Melts beautifully with its gentle buttery taste
- Crushed red pepper: Lets you dial the heat up or down
- Green onions: Top it off with bright color and mild zip
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Toast the Bread:
- Arrange baguette pieces on a cookie sheet and pop under low broil for 3 to 5 minutes until they turn slightly golden. Then flip each piece and broil the other side until equally toasted. This makes a firm base that'll hold your topping without going mushy.
- Prepare the Shrimp Mixture:
- Warm olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Toss in the chopped shrimp with diced onion and celery. Cook just one minute while constantly stirring to make sure everything cooks evenly without overcooking the shrimp. They should barely start turning pink.
- Add Aromatics and Seasonings:
- Throw in minced garlic plus Cajun seasoning and black pepper. Keep cooking another minute while stirring non-stop. Your garlic should smell wonderful but not brown, which would make things bitter.
- Create the Cheesy Base:
- Turn heat way down then add chunks of cream cheese with grated Parmesan and Fontina. Stir softly but don't stop until all cheese blends and mostly melts. Add a touch of kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Load the shrimp mix onto each toasted bread slice. Sprinkle some crushed red pepper on top based on how spicy you want it. Bake at 400 degrees for 10 minutes until everything's lightly browned with bubbly cheese.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Scatter freshly cut green onions over your hot toasts. Serve right away while warm for the best crunch and flavor.
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This dish always brings me back to my first time in New Orleans when I totally fell for their amazing seafood scene. The mix of Cajun spices with fresh shrimp takes me straight back to those balmy nights eating out on Bourbon Street. My own twist is adding a bit more garlic than called for because that smell with the shrimp is just too good to resist.
Make Ahead Options
You can get a jump on these shrimp toasts to make hosting simpler. Get the bread toasted and the shrimp mix ready up to a day before, keeping them apart in the fridge. When it's party time, just put them together and bake as directed, maybe adding an extra minute since the filling will be cold.
Easy Substitutions
Can't find Fontina? Just swap in Gruyère or mild provolone for the same meltiness. Frozen shrimp works just fine if you thaw and dry it properly. Want a different taste? Try Old Bay or Italian herbs instead of Cajun seasoning. Got gluten-free guests? Serve this mix on gluten-free crackers or cucumber slices instead of baguette.
Serving Suggestions
These shrimp toasts go great on an app table next to things like stuffed mushrooms and fresh veggies. For something heartier, pair them with a light green salad with lemon dressing. They're also fancy enough to kick off a seafood dinner when plated individually with a little herb garnish.
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These shrimp toasts will win over any crowd and quickly become your go-to party starter.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use shrimp that's already cooked?
You can! Just chop it into small pieces and gently warm it in a pan instead of fully cooking it again.
- → What's the best bread choice?
A baguette works great since it has a sturdy crust and soft inside, but any crunchy bread should do the trick.
- → Are different cheeses okay to use?
For sure! Mozzarella, Gruyère, or even cheddar can be swapped in if that's what you have on hand.
- → How can I keep leftovers fresh?
Pop leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to two days. For the best texture, heat them in the oven at 350°F until crispy again.
- → Can I prep things ahead of time?
You can make the shrimp topping a day early and stick it in the fridge. Just toast your bread and put it together before baking.
- → Is this dish spicy?
It can be! You control the heat by adjusting the amount of Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes. Start low and spice it up as you like.