What Are Shrimp Beeps? Uncovering This Tasty Seafood Dish

Seafood lovers get ready to meet your new favorite dish – shrimp beeps! This unique preparation combines crispy shrimp with a flavorful tomato sauce for an explosion of textures and flavors.

Shrimp beeps may sound unusual, but this delightful appetizer has developed a passionate fanbase. Let’s uncover the origins, ingredients, and best cooking methods for shrimp beeps so you can enjoy this treat at home.

The History Behind Shrimp Beeps

Shrimp beeps originated at Sorrento Ristorante Italiano, an Italian restaurant in Long Branch, New Jersey. The dish was created accidentally in the 1960s when a cook overheard the shrimp “beeping” as they sautéed in the pan

Amused by the noises coming from the pan the chef decided to name the new shrimp dish after this sizzling sound. The lightly breaded shrimp served over a spicy tomato sauce became known as “shrimp beeps.”

After appearing on the menu, shrimp beeps quickly gained popularity among Sorrento’s regular customers. Its balance of sweet tomatoes, heat, and crispy seafood made it a standout appetizer.

The dish was such a hit that several other restaurants in the area developed their own versions to meet customer demand. Today, shrimp beeps remain a staple menu item at old-school Italian restaurants along the Jersey Shore.

The Key Ingredients in Shrimp Beeps

While recipes can vary, several key ingredients are essential for making authentic shrimp beeps:

• Shrimp – Medium or large shrimp work best to allow an even coating and avoid overcooking. Peel, devein, and pat dry before breading.

• Flour – Whole wheat or all-purpose flour helps form a light, crispy coating on the shrimp.

• Breadcrumbs – Panko or Italian-style breadcrumbs add crunch after frying.

• Tomato sauce – Crushed tomatoes seasoned with garlic, onion, and red pepper flakes pack a flavor punch.

• Cheese – Grated parmesan or pecorino romano give a salty, nutty finish.

• Herbs – Chopped parsley or basil provide freshness.

• Olive oil – For pan-frying the shrimp until golden brown.

When these ingredients come together, you get a perfect harmony of flavors and textures in each bite. The sauce clings to the crunchy shrimp, while the cheese and herbs enhance the medley of tastes.

How to Make Picture-Perfect Shrimp Beeps at Home

Preparing shrimp beeps is easy, whether frying in a pan or baking in the oven. Here is a simple recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 cup flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley or basil

Instructions:

1. Coat shrimp in flour, dip in egg, and then coat thoroughly in breadcrumbs.

2. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry shrimp 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.

3. Transfer fried shrimp to a baking dish. Top with marinara sauce and sprinkle with parmesan.

4. Bake at 400°F for 5 minutes until cheese melts.

5. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil. Serve with garlic bread.

For a lighter option, bake the breaded shrimp on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 10-12 minutes at 400°F until cooked through. Then top with sauce and cheese before broiling 1-2 minutes more.

No matter which cooking method you choose, listen closely for those signature shrimp beeps! That’s how you know they will turn out crispy and delicious every time.

Creative Ways to Switch Up Your Shrimp Beeps

Once you master the classic preparation for shrimp beeps, have fun playing around with different flavors and variations:

• Use spicy arrabiata sauce instead of marinara for extra heat.

• Swap in lemon-pepper panko crumbs for a zesty kick.

• Mix parmesan with mozzarella or fontina for more melted gooey-ness.

• Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or cherry tomatoes to the sauce.

• Stir in a spoonful of pesto for herby richness.

• For a Mexican twist, use chipotle tomato sauce and top with cilantro and cotija cheese.

• For a Hawaiian vibe, make pineapple teriyaki glazed shrimp beeps.

The possibilities are endless! The basic technique remains the same, while the flavors can go in many creative directions.

Why Shrimp Beeps Are a Crowd-Pleaser

There are many reasons shrimp beeps have become so beloved over the decades:

• The crispy, flaky shrimp coating provides a satisfying crunch in each bite.

• The sweet and spicy tomato sauce packs a flavorful punch.

• Melted cheese pulls everything together for cheesy goodness.

• It comes together quickly for an easy weeknight meal.

• Kids and adults alike devour this tasty dish!

Shrimp beeps check all the boxes for a recipe you’ll make again and again. It works as an appetizer for sharing or a main dish when served with pasta or crusty bread.

The next time you’re craving seafood, give this Italian restaurant classic a try at home. Just be sure to listen for those iconic sizzling shrimp beeps!