If you’re looking for a lightning-fast, foolproof way to make shrimp that’s juicy inside, perfectly seasoned, and just the right amount of crisp, Air Fryer Shrimp is about to become your new go-to. This dish delivers restaurant-quality flavor in mere minutes, using only a handful of pantry staples and fresh shrimp. Whether you’re piling them into tacos, tossing onto a salad, or serving as a breezy appetizer, these shrimp are guaranteed to win over any seafood lover’s heart!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Get ready to be amazed by how much flavor you can coax out of just a few simple ingredients! Each one plays a starring role, from the succulent shrimp to the smoky paprika, adding depth, color, and irresistible aroma to your Air Fryer Shrimp.
- Large Shrimp (1 pound, peeled and deveined): Choose large, plump shrimp for the juiciest bite and most impressive presentation; tails on or off, your call!
- Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): This helps the seasoning stick and ensures a perfectly crisp, golden exterior.
- Garlic Powder (1/2 teaspoon): For a gentle garlicky kick without the risk of burning fresh garlic.
- Smoked Paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a subtle smokiness and beautiful color that makes the shrimp extra enticing.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Essential for bringing out all the flavors in the shrimp and spices.
- Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): A touch of heat and balance for the seasoning blend.
- Cayenne Pepper (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For those who like things with a little more zip—totally adjustable to your spice level.
- Lemon Wedges & Chopped Parsley (for serving, optional): Bright, fresh garnishes that take your Air Fryer Shrimp from tasty to unforgettable.
How to Make Air Fryer Shrimp
Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F for about 3 minutes. This quick step ensures the shrimp start cooking the moment they hit the basket, giving them that signature crisp edge while keeping the inside tender.
Step 2: Season the Shrimp
In a large bowl, combine your peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne if you’re in the mood for a little spice. Toss everything together until each shrimp is coated in that gorgeous, fragrant seasoning—this is where the magic happens!
Step 3: Arrange in the Air Fryer
Lay your shrimp out in a single layer in the air fryer basket. If you’re working with a smaller air fryer, don’t be afraid to cook in batches—crowding the basket can steam the shrimp instead of crisping them up.
Step 4: Air Fry to Perfection
Air fry the shrimp for 6 to 8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. Watch for the shrimp to turn bright pink and curl into a “C” shape, with slightly crispy edges—this is the sign they’re perfectly cooked. Be careful not to overcook, as shrimp go from juicy to rubbery in a flash!
Step 5: Serve and Savor
Transfer your Air Fryer Shrimp to a serving dish right away, and finish with a generous squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of chopped parsley. The aroma alone will have everyone racing to the table!
How to Serve Air Fryer Shrimp
Garnishes
A simple shower of fresh parsley and a few lemon wedges add a pop of color and brightness that make each bite taste even fresher. If you’re feeling fancy, a light sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds a rich, savory finish that pairs beautifully with the smoky paprika.
Side Dishes
Air Fryer Shrimp play well with just about anything! Try serving them over a bed of fluffy rice, alongside garlicky sautéed greens, or tucked into warm tortillas for effortless shrimp tacos. They’re also fabulous on top of crisp salads or paired with a creamy dipping sauce for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn Air Fryer Shrimp into a show-stopping main by threading them onto skewers with colorful veggies, or serve on a platter with toothpicks for a party-ready snack. Toss them into grain bowls, fold into pasta, or pile high on a toasted bun with slaw for an irresistible shrimp sandwich.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any Air Fryer Shrimp left, let them cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 2 days, perfect for tossing into salads or quick lunches.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked Air Fryer Shrimp for up to 2 months! Lay them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can grab just what you need for a speedy meal or snack.
Reheating
For best results, reheat shrimp in the air fryer at 350°F for 2–3 minutes until warmed through—this helps them stay crispy. Avoid microwaving, which can make the shrimp rubbery and zap away their delicate flavor.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw and pat them dry first so the seasoning sticks and you get that irresistible crispiness. Frozen shrimp work wonderfully for Air Fryer Shrimp and are a great freezer staple.
Do I need to flip the shrimp halfway through cooking?
It’s not strictly necessary, but giving the basket a good shake halfway helps ensure every shrimp cooks evenly and gets those lovely golden edges.
Can I double the recipe?
Of course! Just cook the shrimp in batches so they have enough space in the air fryer. Overcrowding makes them steam instead of crisp, so a little patience pays off.
What sauces go well with Air Fryer Shrimp?
These shrimp love to be dipped! Classic cocktail sauce, creamy garlic aioli, or a spicy sriracha mayo are all fantastic choices. Even a simple squeeze of lemon is delicious.
How do I know when the shrimp are done?
Shrimp are ready when they turn pink, opaque, and curl into a “C” shape. If they start curling into an “O,” they’re overcooked—aim for that perfect “C” for juicy, tender results every time.
Final Thoughts
Once you discover how quick, easy, and downright delicious Air Fryer Shrimp can be, you’ll want to make them again and again. Don’t wait for a special occasion—treat yourself and your loved ones to this speedy seafood star tonight!
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Air Fryer Shrimp Recipe
- Total Time: 13 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Air Fryer Shrimp recipe offers a quick, delicious way to enjoy perfectly cooked shrimp with a crispy exterior and tender interior. Seasoned with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and optional cayenne for a little kick, these shrimp are cooked in just minutes in the air fryer, making them ideal for everything from appetizers to main dishes.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Seasonings
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
For Serving
- Lemon wedges (optional)
- Chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes to ensure even cooking and a crispy finish.
- Prepare Shrimp: In a large bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using until shrimp are evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
- Arrange Shrimp: Place the seasoned shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding and ensure even cooking.
- Cook Shrimp: Air fry the shrimp for 6 to 8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to promote even cooking, until shrimp turn pink, curl up, and have a slightly crispy edge.
- Serve: Remove shrimp from the air fryer immediately and serve warm with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
- Do not overcook the shrimp—they cook quickly and can become rubbery if left too long.
- This recipe works perfectly for tacos, salads, rice bowls, or paired with your favorite dipping sauce.
- For an extra savory touch, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Appetizer
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 pound shrimp (approximately 4 oz)
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 460mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 170mg
