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This baked shrimp toast transforms a humble baguette into a show-stopping appetizer that will have your guests hovering around the serving tray. The combination of succulent shrimp and melty cheese creates the perfect topping for crisp, golden bread slices that disappear within minutes at every gathering.
I first made these for a holiday cocktail party as a last minute addition when I realized I needed one more appetizer. They were such a hit that several guests asked for the recipe before leaving and now they make frequent appearances at my gatherings.
Ingredients
- French baguette: Sliced into half inch thick pieces provide the perfect crispy base
- Shrimp: Deliver sweet seafood flavor and meaty texture when minced properly
- Onion and celery: Create the aromatic foundation that builds depth
- Garlic: Adds essential pungency that pairs beautifully with seafood
- Cajun seasoning: Brings a touch of Louisiana flair with balanced heat
- Cream cheese: Provides creaminess that binds everything together
- Parmesan cheese: Contributes nutty salty notes that enhance the shrimp
- Fontina cheese: Adds meltability and mild buttery flavor
- Crushed red pepper: Allows for customizable heat level
- Green onions: Finish the dish with fresh color and mild onion flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Toast the Bread:
- Place baguette slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and broil on low for 3 to 5 minutes until lightly golden. Flip each slice and broil the second side until equally golden. This creates a sturdy base that can hold the topping without becoming soggy.
- Prepare the Shrimp Mixture:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced shrimp along with diced onion and celery. Cook for exactly one minute while stirring frequently to ensure even cooking without overdoing the shrimp. The seafood should just begin to turn pink.
- Add Aromatics and Seasonings:
- Incorporate minced garlic along with Cajun seasoning and black pepper. Continue cooking for one more minute while stirring constantly. The garlic should become fragrant but not brown which would create bitterness.
- Create the Cheesy Base:
- Reduce heat to very low then add cubed cream cheese along with shaved Parmesan and Fontina. Stir gently but continuously until all cheeses are blended and nearly melted completely. Season carefully with kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Spoon the shrimp mixture generously onto each toasted baguette slice. Sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes according to your heat preference. Bake in a 400 degree oven for 10 minutes until the tops are lightly browned and bubbly with cheese.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle freshly sliced green onions over the hot toasts. Serve immediately while still warm for the best texture and flavor experience.
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This recipe reminds me of my first trip to New Orleans where I fell in love with the magnificent seafood culture. The blend of Cajun spices with fresh shrimp takes me right back to those warm evenings dining on Bourbon Street. My personal touch is adding a touch more garlic than the recipe calls for because the aromatic combination with the shrimp is absolutely irresistible.
Make Ahead Options
These shrimp toasts can be partially prepped ahead of time to make entertaining easier. Toast the bread and prepare the shrimp mixture up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply assemble and bake as directed, adding just a minute or two to the baking time to account for the chilled filling.
Easy Substitutions
If Fontina cheese is unavailable, substitute with Gruyère or mild provolone for similar meltability. Frozen shrimp work perfectly fine when properly thawed and patted dry. For a different flavor profile, swap the Cajun seasoning with Old Bay or Italian herb blend. Gluten sensitive guests will appreciate this mixture served on gluten free crackers or cucumber rounds instead of baguette.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these shrimp toasts as part of an appetizer spread alongside complementary items like stuffed mushrooms and a fresh vegetable platter. For a more substantial offering, pair with a light mixed green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. These toasts also make an outstanding first course for a seafood focused dinner party when presented on individual plates with a small herb garnish.
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These shrimp toasts are the ultimate crowd-pleaser and will quickly become a favorite in your appetizer rotation.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use pre-cooked shrimp for this dish?
Yes, pre-cooked shrimp can be used, but ensure to chop them finely and add them to the skillet just to warm through, rather than fully cooking them again.
- → What type of bread works best?
A French baguette is ideal due to its firm crust and soft interior, but any crusty bread with a similar texture will work well.
- → Can I substitute the cheeses?
Absolutely! You can use other meltable cheeses like mozzarella, Gruyère, or cheddar if you prefer.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through and crispy.
- → Can this dish be made ahead of time?
You can prepare the shrimp mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Toast the baguette slices and assemble just before baking.
- → How spicy is this dish?
The level of spiciness can be adjusted by the amount of Cajun seasoning and crushed red pepper you use. Start with smaller amounts and adjust to taste.