Description
This Easy Baked Coconut Shrimp recipe offers a delightful combination of crispy panko breadcrumbs and shredded coconut coating tender shrimp, baked to golden perfection. It’s a quick and simple dish that delivers a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, ideal for appetizers or a light meal.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 cup shredded coconut (unsweetened)
Wet Ingredients
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/3 cup butter (melted)
Main Ingredient
- 1 pound shrimp (large, peeled and deveined)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F to ensure it’s ready for baking the shrimp to a crispy finish.
- Prepare Breading Stations: Set up three shallow bowls: one with the flour and salt mixed, the second with the beaten egg and milk whisked together, and the third with the panko breadcrumbs combined with shredded coconut.
- Coat Shrimp with Flour Mixture: Dredge each shrimp thoroughly in the flour and salt mixture to help the egg mixture adhere well in the next step.
- Dip Shrimp in Egg Mixture: Dip the floured shrimp into the egg and milk mixture, ensuring they are well coated to bind the breadcrumbs and coconut.
- Coat with Panko Coconut Mixture: Press each shrimp firmly into the panko and coconut mixture, coating evenly to maximize the crunchy texture and tropical flavor.
- Arrange Shrimp on Baking Sheet: Place the coated shrimp on a lightly sprayed cookie sheet or baking pan arranged in a single layer for even baking.
- Drizzle with Butter: Evenly drizzle the melted butter over the shrimp to add richness and help the coating crisp up beautifully in the oven.
- Bake Shrimp: Bake for 10 to 15 minutes or until the shrimp turn pink and the coating becomes golden and firm, indicating that they are cooked through and perfectly crispy.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, you can broil the shrimp for the last 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Use large peeled and deveined shrimp for best results and easier eating.
- Unsweetened shredded coconut provides a pleasant balance; sweetened coconut may alter the flavor profile.
- Make sure to lightly spray or grease the baking sheet to prevent sticking.
- This recipe pairs wonderfully with a sweet chili dipping sauce or a fresh citrus aioli.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
