There’s something undeniably satisfying about the crunch of a perfectly fried wonton, especially when it’s filled with a luscious mix of cream cheese and shrimp. I discovered this delightful Shrimp Rangoon recipe during a casual weeknight cooking session, and now it has become a staple in my home—one that consistently wows guests and family alike. The rich, creamy filling, balanced with the freshness of green onions and a hint of umami from soy sauce, creates a flavor explosion that dances on your taste buds.
As I bring out the fryer, I can already imagine the aroma enveloping my kitchen, tempting anyone nearby to come take a peek. Whether you’re throwing a gathering, celebrating a special occasion, or just indulging on a quiet night in, these crispy treats are the perfect crowd-pleaser. Plus, they’re quick to whip up, proving that you don’t have to spend hours in the kitchen for something delicious. So grab your ingredients, and let’s create some unforgettable Shrimp Rangoon that will keep everyone coming back for more!
Why will you love this Shrimp Rangoon recipe?
Crispiness at Its Peak: The quick frying process results in golden, crunchy wontons that are impossible to resist.
Indulgent Filling: Each piece bursts with a rich cream cheese and shrimp mixture, satisfying even the pickiest eaters.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both seasoned cooks and kitchen newbies.
Versatile & Customizable: Feel free to substitute shrimp with crab or add spices for a unique twist!
Perfect for Any Occasion: From casual dinners to festive gatherings, these dumplings are a guaranteed hit—your guests will rave about them!
Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep the wontons in advance for stress-free entertaining; just fry and serve when you’re ready!
Enjoy making these delightful appetizers that bring smiles and satisfaction to every table!
Shrimp Rangoon Ingredients
• Discover all you need to create these crispy delights!
For the Filling
- Cream Cheese – Adds that luxurious creaminess essential for Shrimp Rangoon.
- Cooked Shrimp – Chopped for ample flavor and protein distribution.
- Green Onions – Offers a fresh crunch; finely chopped to blend seamlessly.
- Garlic Powder – Enhances overall flavor; substitute with fresh minced garlic for added zest.
- Soy Sauce – Introduces umami and saltiness; tamari serves as a gluten-free alternative.
- Worcestershire Sauce (Optional) – Adds depth to the filling’s flavor profile.
For the Wrappers
- Wonton Wrappers – The crispy shell; opt for egg roll wrappers to make larger treats.
For Frying
- Oil for Frying – Canola or vegetable oil works best for achieving that perfect crunch.
For Dipping
- Sweet Chili Sauce – A delicious accompaniment; feel free to switch it up with your favorite dipping sauce!
How to Make Shrimp Rangoon
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Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, chopped shrimp, finely chopped green onions, garlic powder, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce if using. Mix until everything is well-blended, creating a creamy filling.
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Assemble the Wontons: Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the filling in the center. Moisten the edges with water, fold the wrapper over the filling to create a triangle, and press to seal tightly.
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Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). This temperature ensures a crispy exterior as you fry your Rangoon.
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Fry the Wontons: Carefully add a few wontons to the hot oil. Fry for 3-4 minutes until they turn golden brown, then remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to keep them crisp.
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Serve: Arrange your crispy Shrimp Rangoon on a platter and serve immediately with sweet chili sauce or your favorite dipping sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
Optional: Garnish with fresh chopped green onions for a pop of color and flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Shrimp Rangoon are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling and assemble the wontons up to 24 hours ahead of time. Simply combine the cream cheese, shrimp, green onions, garlic powder, and soy sauce to form the filling, then assemble the wontons as directed. Once assembled, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. This method helps maintain their quality, ensuring they are just as delicious when fried. When you’re ready to enjoy your Shrimp Rangoon, simply heat the oil and fry them until golden brown for a fresh, crispy treat that saves time without sacrificing flavor!
How to Store and Freeze Shrimp Rangoon
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Fridge: Store leftover cooked Shrimp Rangoon in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to maintain crispiness.
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Freezer: Freeze uncooked assembled wontons in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer bag and store for up to 2 months.
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Reheating: For frozen Shrimp Rangoon, fry them straight from the freezer, adding an extra 1-2 minutes to the frying time until golden and crispy.
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Make-Ahead Tip: Preparing the wontons in advance allows for easy entertaining. Just assemble, refrigerate, or freeze, and fry when needed!
Shrimp Rangoon Variations
Customize your Shrimp Rangoon experience with these delicious twists and substitutions that will inspire your culinary creativity!
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Crab Swap: Replace shrimp with lump crab meat for a luxurious seafood option that brings a delightful sweetness.
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Vegan Delight: Use a plant-based cream cheese alternative and replace shrimp with cooked mushrooms or tofu for a vegan-friendly version.
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a spoonful of sriracha to the filling mix for a mouthwatering burst of heat that spice lovers will adore.
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Herb-Infused: Toss in fresh herbs like cilantro or basil to your filling to elevate flavors and create a fresh aroma with every bite.
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Cheesy Boost: For extra richness, mix in shredded mozzarella or cheddar to the cream cheese filling, making it ooey-gooey and utterly indulgent.
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Zesty Citrus: Incorporate a splash of lemon or lime juice into your filling for a bright, citrusy flavor twist that complements the creaminess beautifully.
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Texture Variation: Try adding crushed water chestnuts to the filling mixture for a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creaminess.
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Sweet & Savory: Drizzle a touch of honey or maple syrup into the filling for a surprising blend of flavors that adds depth to each crunchy bite.
Expert Tips for Shrimp Rangoon
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Perfectly Cooked Shrimp: Ensure shrimp are fully cooked and chopped to avoid any raw taste in your filling.
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Oil Temperature: Always check that your oil reaches 350°F (175°C) before frying to prevent soggy wontons; a deep-fry thermometer is your best friend!
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Sealing Wontons: Moistened edges are key for a secure seal; if not sealed well, the filling may leak during frying.
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Batch Frying: Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature, resulting in crispy Shrimp Rangoon without overloading the fryer.
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Make Ahead: Assemble wontons ahead of time and refrigerate for up to a day; this convenience allows stress-free entertaining when guests arrive!
What to Serve with Crispy Shrimp Rangoon?
Looking to elevate your Shrimp Rangoon experience? These delightful appetizers pair beautifully with a variety of side dishes and drinks to create a memorable meal.
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Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful medley of bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots adds freshness and crunch, balancing the creamy filling of the Rangoon.
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Fried Rice: This classic side offers heartiness and flavor, infusing your meal with savory soy sauce notes that complement the Rangoon perfectly.
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Sesame Noodles: Chilled sesame noodles tossed in a light soy and sesame dressing present a cool, slightly nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with crispy shrimp bites.
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Asian Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and tangy, this salad provides a crisp contrast to the rich cheese filling. Its lightness is a delightful counterbalance to fried treats.
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Spring Rolls: Another crispy appetizer, spring rolls filled with veggies or shrimp, enhance the Asian theme of your meal while delighting guests with added crunch.
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Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup can be a comforting addition, providing a light, savory broth that sets the stage for your crispy appetizers.
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Cocktails: A light, citrusy cocktail like a gin fizz or a refreshing mojito can accentuate the flavors of your Rangoon, making for a spirited dining experience.
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Green Tea: Serving a hot cup of green tea not only complements the dish’s flavors but also adds a soothing element, making your meal feel more wholesome.
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Chocolate Cake: For dessert, a rich chocolate cake offers a sweet ending, contrasting wonderfully with the savory starters and leaving your guests blissfully satisfied.
Shrimp Rangoon Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp should I use?
Absolutely go for cooked shrimp! I recommend using small to medium-sized shrimp, as they chop easily and distribute well throughout the filling. Fresh shrimp adds a lovely texture, or you can use frozen shrimp that’s been thawed. Just ensure they are fully cooked before mixing them into your filling.
How should I store leftover Shrimp Rangoon?
To store cooked Shrimp Rangoon, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When ready to enjoy again, reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes. This method helps retain their crispiness, so you don’t end up with sad, soggy treats!
Can I freeze uncooked Shrimp Rangoon?
Yes! Freezing is a fantastic option for meal prep. Lay the assembled wontons in a single layer on a baking sheet, and freeze until they’re solid. Then, transfer them into a freezer bag, sealing well to avoid air exposure. They’ll keep nicely for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to fry, just drop them directly into hot oil without thawing—add an extra minute or two to the frying time.
What if my wontons start to leak while frying?
To prevent leaks, make sure the edges of your wontons are well-moistened and tightly sealed. If you notice a leak during frying, don’t worry! Simply reduce the heat slightly and allow them to finish cooking—this helps prevent further leaking and keeps the filling intact. Always remember to fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature for the best results.
Can I adjust the ingredients for dietary preferences?
Very! This Shrimp Rangoon recipe is versatile. For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce, and make sure your wonton wrappers are gluten-free. If someone has a seafood allergy, you can substitute the shrimp with cooked and chopped chicken or even a combination of veggies for a delightful vegetarian version. The more, the merrier!
Crispy Shrimp Rangoon Recipe for Irresistible Appetizers
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, chopped shrimp, finely chopped green onions, garlic powder, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce if using. Mix until well-blended.
- Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the filling in the center. Moisten edges with water, fold the wrapper over the filling to create a triangle, and press to seal tightly.
- In a deep skillet, heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully add a few wontons to the hot oil. Fry for 3-4 minutes until golden brown, then remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Arrange your crispy Shrimp Rangoon on a platter and serve immediately with sweet chili sauce or your favorite dipping sauce.
