How to make Cheesy Shrimp Stuffed Youtiao in 10 mins

Cheesy Shrimp Stuffed Youtiao is a delicious twist on a classic Chinese fried dough snack, combining crispy mini youtiao with savoury shrimp paste, creamy mayonnaise and gooey mozzarella cheese. The shrimp filling is rich and savoury, while the melted mozzarella adds a deliciously cheesy centre and a satisfying stretch with every bite.

Golden and crispy on the outside, soft and savoury on the inside, these stuffed youtiao make a tempting appetiser or snack. Perfect for sharing, they offer a delightful combination of crunchy, creamy and cheesy textures in every bite.

Ingredients

Instructions

Gently peel open the mini fried dough stick (youtiao) in the middle and pipe the shrimp paste into the centre.
Preheat the air fryer to 180°C for 2–3 minutes. Arrange the stuffed youtiao in a single layer, leaving space between each piece. Top generously with mozzarella cheese over the shrimp paste. Air fry for 7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden.
Pour mayonnaise into a small sauce bowl to serve as a dipping sauce.
Transfer the cheesy shrimp stuffed youtiao to a serving plate. Sprinkle roasted seaweed over the top and serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Tips for Cheesy Shrimp Stuffed Youtiao

Use plenty of mozzarella. A generous layer gives you a gooey, cheesy topping that pairs perfectly with the savoury shrimp filling.

Leave space between each piece. Arrange the youtiao in a single layer with enough room for hot air to circulate evenly.

Watch the cheese. Air fryer temperatures can vary, so keep an eye on the youtiao towards the end to prevent the mozzarella from becoming too dark.

Serve immediately. Cheesy shrimp stuffed youtiao are best enjoyed hot, when the youtiao is crispy and the mozzarella is still melted and gooey.

What to Serve with Cheesy Shrimp Stuffed Youtiao

Cheesy Shrimp Stuffed Youtiao pairs well with refreshing sides and light drinks to balance its rich, crispy and cheesy flavours. Serve it alongside a simple salad, fresh fruit or steamed vegetables for a more balanced meal. For drinks, green tea, iced lemon tea or a refreshing citrus drink can help cut through the richness and cleanse the palate..

FAQ

1. Can I use frozen shrimp paste?

Yes. Thaw the shrimp paste completely before piping it into the youtiao to ensure it cooks evenly.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes. Mozzarella is recommended for its creamy melt and cheese pull, but you can also try cheddar or a mozzarella-cheddar blend.

3. Can I add more cheese?

Definitely. Add extra mozzarella if you prefer a cheesier topping, but avoid covering the entire youtiao too heavily as this may affect how evenly it cooks.