If you’re craving a sandwich that feels like a fresh ocean breeze wrapped in a soft, buttery bun, then these Shrimp Rolls will quickly become your new favorite indulgence. Combining tender, buttery shrimp with crisp celery, a zing of lemon, and the creamy richness of mayonnaise all nestled in a pillowy brioche bun, this dish is like a celebration of summer in every bite. It’s simply delightful, effortlessly elegant, and surprisingly easy to master at home!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering just a handful of fresh and straightforward ingredients, this recipe shows how simple components come together to create layers of flavor, texture, and color in your Shrimp Rolls.

Unsalted butter: This adds a rich, velvety base for sautéing the shrimp without overwhelming their natural sweetness.
Fresh shrimp: Peeled and deveined, they’re the star protein with a satisfying snap and delicate flavor.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the shrimp’s natural taste without any fuss.
Celery stalks: Chopped finely to bring a crisp, refreshing crunch and a slight earthiness that balances the creaminess.
Lemon juice: Bright and zesty, it wakes up all the other ingredients, adding a perfect citrus lift.
Fresh chives: A handful of chopped herbs bring vibrant color and a gentle onion note that complements the shrimp beautifully.
Mayonnaise: Its creamy texture ties all the ingredients together in a luscious coating.
Brioche hot dog buns: Soft, slightly sweet, and buttery, these buns cradle the shrimp filling and make the roll feel indulgent.

How to Make Shrimp Rolls

Step 1: Sauté the Shrimp

Start by melting the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat, which creates a rich, golden base for cooking. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper. Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes on one side, then flip and continue for another 2 to 3 minutes. Keep a close eye to avoid overcooking—once the shrimp lose their translucency and turn pink, they are perfectly done and tender.

Step 2: Chill the Shrimp

Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cooked shrimp to a large bowl. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge for 20 to 30 minutes. This cooling step is key because it allows the shrimp to firm up just enough to mix easily without breaking apart, resulting in a satisfying texture in your shrimp roll.

Step 3: Mix the Filling

After the shrimp has cooled, add the chopped celery, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and chives into the bowl with the shrimp. Stir in the mayonnaise gently, making sure every piece is evenly coated but not soggy. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as desired. The lemon and herbs introduce a freshness that perfectly balances the creamy mayo, creating a harmonious filling.

Step 4: Assemble the Shrimp Rolls

Split the brioche hot dog buns gently to keep their fluffy structure intact. Spoon the shrimp mixture generously into each bun, molding it slightly to fit snugly. For a pop of color and a touch of warmth, sprinkle a little paprika on top and garnish with additional chives if you like. Serve immediately to enjoy the blend of warm buns and chilled shrimp salad.

How to Serve Shrimp Rolls

Garnishes

A sprinkle of paprika adds a subtle smokiness and gorgeous color contrast to the burger-like rolls. Fresh chives not only lift the visual appeal but also enhance the overall flavor with a mild onion bite. Adding a tiny wedge of lemon on the side gives an extra burst of acidity for those who want to brighten each bite even more.

Side Dishes

Shrimp Rolls pair beautifully with simple, light sides such as crisp dill pickle spears or a vibrant slaw to add crunch and tang. A green salad with a citrus vinaigrette complements the flavors without overwhelming your palate. For a relaxed meal vibe, homemade kettle-cooked chips or oven-baked fries make the perfect crispy accompaniment.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party or casual gathering, consider serving Shrimp Rolls open-faced on mini brioche toasts as elegant finger foods. You can also add a layer of avocado or cucumber slices for extra creaminess and freshness. Another fun twist is to serve the shrimp filling in lettuce cups or even inside hollowed-out tomatoes for a low-carb option bursting with color and flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover shrimp filling, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the brioche buns separately to avoid sogginess. When ready to eat again, simply spoon the filling back into fresh or toasted buns for a quick meal.

Freezing

Because Shrimp Rolls rely on fresh textures, freezing the assembled rolls is not recommended. However, you can freeze the cooked shrimp before mixing it with celery and mayo—freeze it in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before combining with the other fresh ingredients.

Reheating

The shrimp filling is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so avoid reheating after mixing with mayonnaise. If you want warm shrimp, reheat the cooked shrimp gently in a skillet before chilling and mixing, but the full roll should be eaten chilled for optimal texture and flavor balance.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for Shrimp Rolls?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp but make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture. Fresh shrimp generally gives a better texture and flavor.

Is there a substitute for mayonnaise in the recipe?

If you want a lighter or different flavor, you can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a mixture of avocado and lemon juice for a creamy but healthier option.

What type of buns work best for Shrimp Rolls?

Brioche buns are ideal because they are soft yet sturdy, with a slight sweetness that complements the shrimp. However, potato rolls or buttery hot dog buns also work well.

Can I add other vegetables to the filling?

Absolutely! Finely diced bell peppers or cucumbers can add crunch and freshness. Just be sure to chop them finely to keep the filling uniform and easy to eat.

How long does it take to prepare Shrimp Rolls?

This recipe is quick and efficient; from cooking the shrimp to assembling takes about 30 to 40 minutes, perfect for a weeknight or casual gathering.

Final Thoughts

Shrimp Rolls are a delightful culinary treat that combines simplicity with elegance, making them a crowd-pleaser any time of the year. Once you give this recipe a try, you’ll understand why it’s a cherished favorite—rich, fresh, and irresistibly satisfying. So grab your skillet, fire up your stove, and treat yourself and your loved ones to these dreamy, delicious Shrimp Rolls!