Shrimp and Cream Cheese Wontons Recipe – Crispy, Creamy, and Irresistible

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Introduction

If you’re on the hunt for the perfect appetizer or snack that’s crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and loaded with flavor, Shrimp and Cream Cheese Wontons are about to become your new favorite treat. These bite-sized, golden-brown pockets are filled with succulent shrimp, smooth cream cheese, aromatic garlic, and green onion, all wrapped in a delicate wonton shell and fried to perfection. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a family snack, or adding a savory side to your meal, this recipe delivers indulgence with a crunch.

And the best part? They’re versatile—great for frying, air frying, or even freezing for later. Let’s explore everything you need to know about making shrimp and cream cheese wontons from scratch, including the recipe’s background, full ingredients and instructions, pairing ideas, variations, and more.

Overview of the Recipe

  • Recipe Name: Shrimp and Cream Cheese Wontons

  • Category: Appetizer / Snack

  • Cuisine: Asian-Inspired

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes

  • Cook Time: 10 minutes

  • Total Time: 30 minutes

  • Servings: 20–25 wontons

  • Skill Level: Easy to Moderate

  • Cooking Method: Deep-Frying or Air-Frying

This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, holiday gatherings, or whenever you’re craving something crunchy and creamy.

History and Origin

Wontons are a classic staple in Chinese cuisine, with a history that dates back over a thousand years. Traditionally, wontons were served in broth or soup, but as Chinese cuisine evolved and spread globally, these versatile wrappers found new life as fried appetizers in fusion dishes.

The addition of cream cheese to wontons is more common in American-Chinese cuisine and is closely related to the famous “Crab Rangoon,” which was believed to be popularized in the United States in the mid-20th century. While traditional wontons lean heavily on savory fillings, the cream cheese twist introduces a rich, velvety component that pairs beautifully with seafood like shrimp.

This modern adaptation merges Eastern technique with Western flavor, offering a creamy-crispy treat that’s both nostalgic and novel.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to create these irresistible shrimp and cream cheese wontons:

For the Filling:

  • 4 oz (1/2 cup) cream cheese, softened

  • 1 green onion, finely chopped

  • 1 garlic clove, minced

  • 1/2 lb raw shrimp, peeled, deveined, finely chopped

  • 1/2 teaspoon soy sauce

  • 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil (optional, for added aroma)

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Wrapping & Cooking:

  • 20–25 wonton wrappers

  • 1 egg, beaten (used for sealing edges)

  • Vegetable oil, for deep frying

Instructions

Follow these detailed step-by-step instructions to make your shrimp and cream cheese wontons perfect every time:

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

  1. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, finely chopped shrimp, green onion, minced garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil (if using).

  2. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly with a spoon or spatula until the ingredients are evenly distributed and well blended.

  3. Chill the mixture for 10 minutes in the refrigerator if it feels too soft to handle. This makes wrapping easier.

Step 2: Assemble the Wontons

  1. Lay out a few wonton wrappers at a time on a clean, dry surface. Keep the remaining wrappers covered with a damp towel to prevent drying out.

  2. Place about 1 teaspoon of the filling into the center of each wrapper.

  3. Dip your finger or a small pastry brush in the beaten egg and lightly brush the edges of the wonton wrapper.

  4. Fold the wrapper into a triangle (corner to opposite corner) or bring all four corners together to create a “pouch.” Press the edges firmly to seal, making sure there are no air pockets.

  5. Repeat the process until all the filling is used.

Step 3: Fry the Wontons

  1. In a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot, heat 2 to 3 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a cooking thermometer for accurate temperature control.

  2. Carefully lower a few wontons into the hot oil at a time—do not overcrowd the pan.

  3. Fry for 2–3 minutes, turning once halfway through, until golden brown and crispy on all sides.

  4. Remove the wontons using a slotted spoon and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Serve

  • Arrange the wontons on a serving plate.

  • Serve hot with dipping sauces like sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, or spicy mayo.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions

Shrimp and Cream Cheese Wontons pair beautifully with:

  • Sweet Chili Sauce: For a sweet and spicy kick.

  • Spicy Mayo: Mix mayonnaise with a dash of sriracha or chili paste.

  • Soy Sauce with Sesame Seeds: A simple, savory dip.

  • Asian Slaw or Cucumber Salad: Adds a refreshing crunch and balance.

  • Jasmine or Fried Rice: Turn it into a full meal with a side of rice.

  • Green Tea or Iced Jasmine Tea: Light, floral teas cut through the richness of the filling.

Variations of the Recipe

There are several fun ways to tweak this recipe to suit your taste:

  1. Air Fryer Wontons: Lighten it up by air frying at 375°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway. Spray the wontons lightly with oil for even crispiness.

  2. Spicy Version: Add a dash of sriracha or crushed red pepper flakes to the filling.

  3. Add Veggies: Mix in finely chopped water chestnuts, spinach, or carrots for crunch and nutrition.

  4. Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free wonton wrappers and tamari in place of soy sauce.

  5. Cheesy Upgrade: Blend in a little shredded mozzarella or cheddar for an extra gooey center.

Health Benefits Notes

While these wontons are a treat food, they also offer a few nutritional perks when consumed in moderation:

  • Shrimp: Low in calories and high in protein, shrimp is also a good source of iodine, selenium, and vitamin B12.

  • Garlic and Green Onion: Offer antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

  • Cream Cheese (in moderation): Provides a dose of calcium and vitamin A.

  • Air Fryer Option: Reduces oil content significantly for a lighter version.

To make this recipe even healthier, try steaming or air frying instead of deep frying and pair with a fresh salad.

FAQs

Q: Can I freeze shrimp and cream cheese wontons?
A: Yes! Assemble the wontons and freeze them on a tray. Once frozen, transfer to a zip-top bag. Fry or air fry straight from frozen—just add 1–2 extra minutes to the cook time.

Q: How do I prevent wontons from opening during frying?
A: Make sure to press the edges tightly and use enough egg wash to seal. Avoid overfilling, which can cause bursting.

Q: Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
A: Yes, though raw shrimp yields a juicier filling. If using pre-cooked shrimp, chop finely and reduce cooking time slightly.

Q: Can I bake these instead?
A: Yes. Bake in a 400°F oven for 12–15 minutes, brushing lightly with oil for crispiness. Flip halfway through.

Conclusion

Shrimp and Cream Cheese Wontons are the ultimate fusion snack—easy to make, fun to eat, and full of flavor. Whether you deep fry, air fry, or bake them, the result is always a crispy exterior with a rich, creamy, and savory filling. Ideal for entertaining, family dinners, or meal prepping, these wontons can be customized to fit nearly any dietary preference or cooking method.

So grab those wonton wrappers, whip up the creamy shrimp filling, and enjoy the satisfying crunch of a snack that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Don’t forget to try the air fryer version for a healthier twist, and freeze a batch for those snack emergencies. Happy cooking!

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