Heart-Healthy Baked Shrimp Toast

(5.0)
By Judy Capodanno
Updated 1/20/2026
Dietitian Reviewed: Jane Schwartz, RDN, CLT
Approved for These Diets:
Heart Healthy | Diabetic
Heart Healthy Shrimp Toast
Photo Credit: Adobe Stock

Whip up a creamy, crisp shrimp toast with dynamic flavor. By spreading a zesty shrimp mixture on sliced whole-grain French bread and broiling it to golden-brown perfection, you get all the crunch of the traditional dim sum favorite without the excess fat from deep-frying.

This lightened-up version uses light cream cheese and egg whites to achieve a rich, savory texture that pairs perfectly with the snap of the shrimp. Whether you’re looking for a heart-healthy party snack or a quick 30-minute appetizer, this recipe delivers big flavor while staying diabetic-friendly and low-calorie.

See more healthy shrimp recipes.

Total Time
30 minutes
Servings
12
Calories
88

What Makes This Heart-Healthy Baked Shrimp Toast Healthy

This recipe transforms a traditionally deep-fried dish into a heart-healthy powerhouse by utilizing the broiler to achieve a signature crispness. By swapping heavy fats for light cream cheese and fiber-rich whole-grain bread, you can enjoy a satisfying, high-protein appetizer that supports blood sugar management.

Key Health Highlights

  • Low in Calories: At just 88 calories per slice, it is a perfect portion-controlled snack for weight management.
  • Baked, Not Fried: Eliminates the heavy saturated fats typically found in oil-fried shrimp toast.
  • Lean Protein Source: Features a full pound of shrimp, providing high-quality protein to keep you feeling full.
  • Heart-Healthy Fats: Uses light cream cheese and egg whites to reduce cholesterol and total fat content.
  • Whole-Grain Fiber: Whole-grain French bread adds essential fiber, which is vital for heart health and digestion.

FAQs About Heart-Healthy Baked Shrimp Toast

Yes! Ensure the shrimp are fully thawed and patted dry with paper towels before processing to prevent the mixture from becoming too watery.

While fried versions are often more dense, this baked version uses light cream cheese to create a luxurious, creamy topping that contrasts beautifully with the crisp bread.

Spreading the mixture all the way to the edges of the bread helps seal the surface. Also, baking at a lower temperature after the initial broil ensures the bread dries out and crisps up properly.

You can prepare the mixture up to 4 hours in advance and keep it chilled in the refrigerator. Spread it onto the bread just before you are ready to bake.

More Heart-Healthy Seafood Favorites

These tasty, simple recipes for seafood classics are perfect for serving as appetizers or as a main course paired with a salad or whole grain accompaniment.

Light & Healthy Appetizers

Whip up any of these easy dishes as a starter course or snack.

Ingredients

Recipe yields 12 servings

Directions

  1. Step 1

    Preheat oven to broiler setting.

  2. Step 2

    In a food processor, combine the shrimp, green onions, cilantro, garlic, cayenne pepper, egg white, milk and cream cheese. Be careful not to over-process the mixture should be chunky.

  3. Step 3

    Spread 2 tablespoons of the shrimp mixture onto each slice of bread, spreading to the edges and smoothing the top.

  4. Step 4

    Broil the shrimp toasts on high for 10 minutes. Reduce temperature to 300° and bake for additional 10 minutes. Garnish with fresh dill, if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size:
1 slice shrimp toast

88
Calories
2
g
Fat
79
mg
Cholesterol
181
mg
Sodium
6
g
Carbs
1
g
Sat. Fat
0
g
Fiber
10
g
Protein

Alternative Cooking Methods

Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Place the toasts in a single layer and air fry for 6–8 minutes until the shrimp mixture is set and the edges are golden brown. This method often results in even crispier bread than the broiler.

Serving & Storage Tips

  • Serve Immediately: These are best enjoyed straight from the oven while the bread is at its crispest.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  • Reheating: To maintain the texture, reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer at 350°F for 3–5 minutes. Avoid the microwave, as it will make the bread soft and chewy.

Serving Variations:

  • Sesame Shrimp Toast: Sprinkle raw sesame seeds over the shrimp mixture before baking for extra crunch and a nutty aroma.
  • Spicy Garlic Version: Double the garlic and add a teaspoon of sriracha or chili garlic sauce to the food processor for a bolder kick.
  • Water Chestnut Crunch: Pulse 1/4 cup of canned water chestnuts into the mixture for the authentic texture found in many restaurant versions.

What to Serve With Heart-Healthy Baked Shrimp Toast:

Ingredient Substitutions

If whole-grain French bread isn’t available, sourdough or a sturdy gluten-free baguette works well.

Swap cilantro for fresh flat-leaf parsley or minced chives if you prefer a milder flavor.

For a dairy-free version, use a plant-based plain cream cheese alternative.

Adjust the cayenne pepper to your preference, or replace it with a dash of white pepper for traditional dim sum heat.

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