Name: Shrimp and Cream Cheese Wontons Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 green onion, finely chopped; 1 garlic clove, minced; 1 tsp soy sauce; 1/2 tsp sesame oil; 12 wonton wrappers; 1 egg, beaten (for sealing); Vegetable oil, for frying; Sweet chili sauce or soy sauce

Jump to Recipe· 4.8 from 10 reviews

Shrimp and Cream Cheese Wontons are an irresistible blend of crispy, golden shells filled with creamy, savory goodness and tender shrimp. Each bite bursts with flavor and crunch, making them the star of any appetizer platter or dinner party spread. These wontons bring the perfect mix of textures, and their playful size guarantees you’ll keep reaching for just one more. Let’s dive into the world of homemade deliciousness with this joyful recipe!

Shrimp and Cream Cheese Wontons Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed at how just a handful of essential ingredients can come together to create Shrimp and Cream Cheese Wontons that taste like a restaurant treat. Every component in this line-up adds something special to balance out flavors and textures—you truly don’t want to skip any!

Large shrimp: These provide sweet, meaty bites of protein and make every wonton luxuriously satisfying.
Cream cheese: The creamy base that holds everything together and brings a rich, velvety texture to every filling.
Green onion: Fresh scallion brightens up the filling with color and a pop of gentle, herbal sharpness.
Garlic: Just a clove, but it infuses the mixture with a layer of warmth and aromatic depth.
Soy sauce: A small amount packs enough savory umami to round out the flavors perfectly.
Sesame oil: For that whisper of toasty flavor that instantly elevates the entire bite.
Wonton wrappers: These delicate sheets fry up beautifully crisp, holding the filling safely inside.
Egg: The classic “edible glue” for sealing all your wonton edges shut, no spillage allowed!
Vegetable oil: Chosen for its high smoke point and neutral flavor—ideal for crisping up wontons in minutes.
Sweet chili sauce or soy sauce (for dipping): Offering a cool, tangy or savory finish to every bite.

How to Make Shrimp and Cream Cheese Wontons

Step 1: Prep the Shrimp

Start by making sure your shrimp are peeled, deveined, and patted dry (no soggy filling here!). Dice them into small, bite-sized chunks; you want the shrimp to nestle into the creamy filling without overwhelming each wonton. This ensures every wonton delivers perfectly balanced bites.

Step 2: Create the Creamy Mixture

In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped green onion, minced garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Stir everything together until fully blended and smooth without any lumps—this is your flavor-packed base. Once mixed, gently fold in those chopped shrimp bits until evenly distributed.

Step 3: Assemble the Wontons

Lay out your wonton wrappers on a clean, dry surface and cover them with a damp towel to prevent drying. Place a small spoonful of your shrimp and cream cheese mixture right in the center of each wrapper. Next, brush the wrapper edges with beaten egg, then fold each one into a neat triangle or gather the corners into a cute pouch—press to seal tightly.

Step 4: Fry Until Crispy

Heat a generous glug of vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat. When the oil reaches about 350°F (or when a tiny piece of wrapper sizzles instantly), add your wontons in batches, making sure not to overcrowd. Fry for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp. Use a slotted spoon to transfer your beauties to a plate lined with paper towels.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once they’re drained, your Shrimp and Cream Cheese Wontons are officially ready for the spotlight! Pile them high on a serving platter and offer a small bowl of sweet chili sauce or soy sauce for dipping. Serve warm to enjoy the irresistible mix of creamy filling and crunchy shell at its best.

How to Serve Shrimp and Cream Cheese Wontons

Garnishes

A sprinkle of thinly sliced green onions or fresh cilantro instantly adds brightness and color, making your Shrimp and Cream Cheese Wontons look irresistible. If you want a pop of heat, scatter a few sliced red chilies on top. For extra crunch, add toasted sesame seeds—they pair beautifully with the subtle sesame flavor in the filling.

Side Dishes

Balance the creamy, savory richness of these wontons with a crisp Asian slaw or a refreshing cucumber salad. For a more filling meal, serve them with steamed jasmine rice and stir-fried vegetables. And don’t forget a dipping sauce bar: sweet chili, tangy soy, or even a zesty ponzu!

Creative Ways to Present

Go beyond the usual plate! Stack the Shrimp and Cream Cheese Wontons in a bamboo steamer basket for a takeout-inspired feel. Arrange them upright on a tray for easy grazing at parties, or thread a few onto skewers for a fun, portable appetizer presentation that makes mingling a breeze.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Shrimp and Cream Cheese Wontons in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To help maintain their crunch, line the container with a paper towel to absorb any excess moisture.

Freezing

To make these ahead, assemble the wontons and arrange them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Frozen wontons can be fried straight from the freezer—just add a minute or two to the cook time.

Reheating

For the crispiest results, reheat Shrimp and Cream Cheese Wontons in a 350°F oven or air fryer for 5–7 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the wrappers chewy instead of crisp.

FAQs

Can I bake Shrimp and Cream Cheese Wontons instead of frying?

Absolutely! Arrange the assembled wontons on a parchment-lined baking sheet, brush lightly with oil, and bake at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.

What else can I add to the filling?

Feel free to add finely chopped water chestnuts for extra crunch, a dash of Sriracha for heat, or some shredded carrot for a touch of sweetness and color. Make it your own!

Can I use wonton wrappers from the freezer?

Yes! Just thaw the wrappers in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for about an hour before using them. Cover with a damp towel to prevent drying as you work.

What dipping sauces pair well with these wontons?

Sweet chili sauce, classic soy sauce, or even a homemade garlic-lime dipping sauce all work beautifully with Shrimp and Cream Cheese Wontons. Don’t be afraid to offer a mix for variety!

Are Shrimp and Cream Cheese Wontons kid-friendly?

Kids tend to love these crispy bites, especially with the mild filling. If you’re worried about spice, simply omit hot sauces or spicy garnishes from the mix.

Final Thoughts

Few things delight a crowd or satisfy a craving quite like Shrimp and Cream Cheese Wontons. Whether you’re hosting friends, looking for the perfect party appetizer, or treating yourself at home, this recipe is a must-try. Gather your ingredients and experience the magic for yourself—these won’t last long once they hit the table!