Name: Korean Style Shrimp Burger Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 4 Tbsp mayonnaise (Greek yogurt can be used); 1 Tbsp lemon juice; 2 Tbsp diced pickles (about 1/2 a pickle); 1 Tbsp dijon mustard; 1 Tbsp sugar; 20 medium-sized shrimps (size 41-50 per pound); 1 tsp salt; 1/2 egg; 1/2 Tbsp dried parsley flakes; 1/4 onion, diced; 1 Tbsp potato starch (corn starch can be substituted); 1/4 cup + 2 Tbsp Korean style breadcrumbs or Japanese panko; 1/2 cup additional Korean style breadcrumbs; 2 potato buns or preferred burger buns; Lettuce, cabbage, cheese, raw onions, tomato, peppers

If you’re ready to treat yourself to a crunchy, plump, and flavor-packed delight, look no further than this irresistible Korean Style Shrimp Burger. Picture juicy shrimp patties with a shatteringly crisp crust, topped with tangy, creamy sauce and nestled in soft potato buns — it’s comfort food with an Asian twist. Popular in Korea and Japan, this burger is a revelation whether you’re craving a weeknight dinner or planning a fun weekend lunch. Each layer brings something special, making the Korean Style Shrimp Burger a meal you’ll crave again and again.

Korean Style Shrimp Burger Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe relies on simple ingredients, but each one is chosen to pack flavor, color, and fantastic texture into every bite. From the briny sweetness of shrimp to the crunch of panko, every element has a delicious role to play in creating the perfect Korean Style Shrimp Burger.

Shrimp: Fresh or thawed medium shrimp provide juiciness and become deliciously plump and tender when fried.
Salt: Essential for seasoning the shrimp mixture and enhancing the natural flavors.
Egg: Acts as a binder to hold your shrimp patties together and keep them moist.
Dried Parsley Flakes: Adds freshness and a pop of green color to every bite.
Onion: Use diced onion for aromatic sweetness and a little extra crunch.
Potato Starch (or Corn Starch): Makes the patties tender and helps with binding.
Korean Style Breadcrumbs or Japanese Panko: These add the signature crunchy texture to the shrimp burger’s coating and give it irresistible crispiness.
Additional Breadcrumbs: For rolling the patties and cranking up the crunch factor even more before frying.
Hamburger Buns (preferably potato buns): Their pillowy softness is the perfect contrast to the crispy shrimp.
Lettuce, Cabbage, Cheese, Raw Onions, Tomato, or Peppers: Pick your favorites — lettuce and cheese bring freshness and creaminess, while cabbages and onions add a hint of bite.
Mayonnaise or Greek Yogurt: The creamy base for your homemade tartar-style sauce; Greek yogurt is a lighter option.
Lemon Juice: Brightens up the sauce and adds refreshing tang.
Pickles: Diced pickles provide vinegary crunch and classic tartar flavor.
Dijon Mustard: Offers gentle heat and complexity to the sauce.
Sugar: Just a touch to balance out the acidity and tang in the sauce.
Oil or Butter (for toasting buns): Adds richness and a golden finish to the bun’s inside.
Oil for Shallow Frying: Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point like canola or vegetable oil for crispy, golden patties.

How to Make Korean Style Shrimp Burger

Step 1: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

Start by making the tangy homemade sauce that sets the Korean Style Shrimp Burger apart. Mix together mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), lemon juice, diced pickles, Dijon mustard, and sugar in a small bowl. Stir until well combined and set aside — this luscious sauce will add just the right amount of zingy richness to your burger.

Step 2: Toast the Buns

Grab your potato buns (or your favorites) and lightly butter or oil a small fry pan. Toast the inner sides only, keeping the outsides soft and cushiony. This step is simple but important — it makes sure your buns stand up to the juicy shrimp patty and lots of sauce without getting soggy.

Step 3: Chop and Prep the Shrimp

For the best shrimp texture, chop about 15 shrimp into six pieces each, and the remaining five shrimp into two to three larger chunks each. You want most pieces small for easy patty forming, but those larger pieces ensure your Korean Style Shrimp Burger stays deliciously plump and juicy with unmistakable shrimp texture in every bite.

Step 4: Make the Shrimp Patty Mixture

In a medium bowl, add your chopped shrimp, salt, half an egg, dried parsley flakes, diced onion, starch, and 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons of breadcrumbs. Gently mix until everything is evenly incorporated but don’t overwork it — the key is to keep those shrimp pieces distinct! Shape into two evenly sized patties.

Step 5: Coat with Extra Crunch

Pour the remaining 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs onto a flat plate. Roll each shrimp patty in these breadcrumbs, pressing gently for a full and even coating. This coats each burger in a layer that will turn gorgeously crispy and golden when fried.

Step 6: Shallow Fry the Patties

Add enough oil to a fry pan for shallow frying (enough to reach halfway up the patties). Heat the oil until shimmering but not smoking. Carefully place the patties into the pan and fry for a few minutes on each side, turning once, until both sides are deep golden and crisp. Remove and let rest while you prepare the rest of the burger.

Step 7: Assemble the Korean Style Shrimp Burger

Time for assembly! If you’re using cheese, lay it on the bottom toasted bun first. Follow with greens like lettuce to protect the bun from the juicy patty. Place your crispy shrimp patty on top, then generously spoon over the homemade sauce. Finish with your favorite toppings, like tomatoes or onions, and crown it with the top bun. Your masterpiece is ready!

How to Serve Korean Style Shrimp Burger

Garnishes

Finish your Korean Style Shrimp Burger with a few classic garnishes: a handful of crisp lettuce, a slice of cheese, or a scatter of raw onions for extra bite. A sprinkle of sesame seeds or snipped chives on top adds a lovely burst of color and freshness.

Side Dishes

This burger shines alongside simple sides: think crispy sweet potato fries, a refreshing cucumber salad, or lightly pickled radishes. For a fun Asian twist, pair your Korean Style Shrimp Burger with kimchi or seaweed salad!

Creative Ways to Present

Amp up your presentation by serving your Korean Style Shrimp Burger open-face, sandwich-style, or even slider-sized for parties. Try skewering burgers with a toothpick and a mini pickle, or plate with a swirl of extra sauce for dipping. Let your imagination — and appetite — lead the way!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store shrimp patties and sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The patties will keep well for up to two days, and the sauce stays fresh for three to four days.

Freezing

To freeze, let the cooked shrimp patties cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and transfer to a freezer bag or container. They’ll happily hang out in your freezer for up to one month — perfect for those future cravings for a Korean Style Shrimp Burger!

Reheating

Reheat cold shrimp patties in a hot oven (375°F) or air fryer until thoroughly warmed and crispy, about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy. Warm your buns separately and sauce just before serving for the freshest flavor.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp for my Korean Style Shrimp Burger?

It’s best to use raw shrimp, as they cook up tender and juicy in the patty. Pre-cooked shrimp can become rubbery after frying, so for authentic texture and taste, stick with raw!

Is there a gluten-free option for the breadcrumb coating?

Absolutely! Swap the Korean or Japanese breadcrumbs for your favorite gluten-free breadcrumbs. Just make sure they’re coarse, like panko, so you still get that irresistible crunch.

What other sauces go well with this burger?

If you want to mix it up, try spicy gochujang mayo, sweet chili sauce, or even plain sriracha for extra heat. Each one gives your Korean Style Shrimp Burger a new, tasty spin.

How do I prevent the shrimp patties from falling apart?

Be gentle when mixing, and don’t skip the starch and egg. They’re what bind everything together! If your mixture seems too loose, sprinkle in a bit more breadcrumbs until it holds its shape easily.

Can I make the shrimp patties ahead of time?

Yes, you can shape the patties a few hours ahead and store them covered in the fridge. Coat with breadcrumbs and fry them just before you’re ready to eat for the best flavor and crunch.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Korean Style Shrimp Burger enough — it’s playful, vibrant, and guaranteed to become a repeat favorite at your table. If you’re craving something different from the usual burger night, give this recipe a go and see how quickly it wins everyone over!