Save These vibrant toasts combine crispy baguette slices with a zesty shrimp mixture featuring Cajun seasoning, Sriracha, and aromatic Vietnamese ingredients. The shrimp is finely chopped and blended with mayonnaise, garlic, shallots, and fish sauce, then spread on buttered bread and baked until golden. Each toast delivers a satisfying crunch with spicy, savory notes balanced by fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime.
Last summer, my friend Linh brought over a jar of homemade Cajun seasoning and we spent the entire afternoon experimenting with fusion recipes. We ended up putting it on everything, but these shrimp toasts were the revelation that made us stop and actually take notes. The way the spicy shrimp mixture caramelizes on the bread while the edges get perfectly crunchy is something I still dream about.
I made these for a small dinner gathering when I was short on time but still wanted to serve something impressive. Everyone gathered around the kitchen island, picking at them straight from the baking sheet, and the conversation completely shifted to debating whether they were more Vietnamese or Cajun. The platter was empty within minutes, and my friend actually asked if there was more hiding in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- Raw shrimp: Fresh shrimp gives the best texture, but frozen works perfectly if you thaw and pat them completely dry before chopping
- Mayonnaise: This binds everything together and helps the topping achieve that gorgeous golden brown crust
- Sriracha sauce: Adjust this based on your heat tolerance but the combination with Cajun seasoning is magic
- Cajun seasoning: The paprika and garlic powder in the blend complement the fish sauce beautifully
- Fish sauce: Just one teaspoon adds that authentic Vietnamese depth without making the dish taste fishy
- Baguette: Use a day old baguette for better structure, it will hold up to the shrimp mixture without getting soggy
- Butter: Softening it to room temperature makes spreading so much easier and prevents tearing the bread
Instructions
- Prep the oven and baking sheet:
- Preheat your oven to 400F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup later
- Chop the shrimp:
- Pat the shrimp very dry with paper towels, then finely chop them into small pieces so they distribute evenly across the bread
- Mix the shrimp filling:
- Combine all the shrimp mixture ingredients in a bowl and mix until everything is well incorporated and fragrant
- Prepare the bread:
- Spread a thin layer of softened butter on each baguette slice and arrange them on your prepared baking sheet
- Top and bake:
- Spoon the shrimp mixture onto each slice and bake for 8 to 10 minutes until golden and bubbling
Save These have become my go to appetizer for unexpected guests because they look fancy but come together so quickly. I love watching people take that first bite and immediately reach for another, the combination of flavors and textures just works.
Make It Your Own
Swap the shrimp for crab meat if you want something more decadent for a special occasion.
Perfect Pairings
A crisp white wine cuts through the richness while a cold beer balances the spice perfectly.
Serving Suggestions
These toasts shine at any gathering from casual game nights to dinner parties. Arrange them on a platter with extra lime wedges on the side for squeezing.
- Keep the shrimp mixture in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking
- Broil for the last minute if you want extra char on top
- Make double the recipe because they disappear fast
Save These toasts are proof that the best flavor combinations often come from unexpected places.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I prepare the shrimp mixture ahead of time?
-
Yes, mix the shrimp topping up to 4 hours before baking and store it refrigerated in an airtight container. Assemble and bake just before serving for the crispiest texture.
- → What type of bread works best?
-
A French baguette is ideal for its crispy crust and sturdy interior. Slicing diagonally creates more surface area for the topping and an elegant presentation.
- → How can I adjust the spice level?
-
Reduce the Sriracha to half for a milder version, or add diced fresh chili peppers and extra Cajun seasoning for more heat. Taste the mixture before baking to adjust.
- → Can I use precooked shrimp?
-
Fresh raw shrimp works best as it releases juices during baking that blend with the other ingredients. If using cooked shrimp, reduce baking time to 5–6 minutes to avoid drying.
- → What can I serve alongside these toasts?
-
Crisp white wine, light beer, or sparkling water complement the spicy flavors. A simple green salad or fresh spring rolls make excellent accompaniments for a light appetizer spread.
- → How should I store leftovers?
-
Best enjoyed fresh from the oven. If needed, store cooled toasts in the refrigerator for up to 1 day and reheat at 350°F for 5 minutes to recrisp the bread.
