Air Fryer Shrimp Recipe

This Air Fryer Shrimp recipe is a quick, healthy, and flavorful way to enjoy perfectly cooked shrimp in under 15 minutes. Juicy on the inside with a crispy, seasoned exterior, this shrimp is perfect for salads, tacos, pasta, or as a high-protein snack. The air fryer makes cooking shrimp effortless—no need for excessive oil or complicated techniques!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy – Ready in just 10–15 minutes.
• Healthier option – Uses minimal oil compared to traditional frying.
• Perfectly crispy – The air fryer gives shrimp a golden crust while keeping them juicy.
• Versatile – Great for tacos, salads, pasta, or a standalone appetizer.
• Customizable flavors – Change the seasoning to suit your taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on or off)
• Olive oil (or cooking spray)
• Garlic powder
• Paprika
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Lemon wedges (for serving)
• Optional: chili flakes, Italian seasoning, or Cajun spice for extra flavor

Directions

1. Preheat the air fryer:
   • Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for 3–5 minutes.
2. Prepare the shrimp:
   • Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels.
   • In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Cook the shrimp:
   • Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket (cook in batches if needed).
   • Air fry for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
4. Serve:
   • Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp and garnish with herbs, if desired.
   • Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce or add to your favorite dish.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 6–8 minutes
• Total Time: 10–15 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Cajun Shrimp: Add 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning for a bold kick.
• Garlic Butter Shrimp: Toss cooked shrimp in melted garlic butter before serving.
• Lemon Herb Shrimp: Add lemon zest and fresh parsley for a bright, herby flavor.
• Coconut Shrimp: Coat shrimp with shredded coconut before air frying for a tropical twist.
• Asian-Inspired: Add soy sauce, ginger, and a splash of sesame oil to the marinade.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked shrimp in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Reheat shrimp in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3–4 minutes until warmed through, or microwave for 30 seconds.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, but thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before seasoning and air frying.

How do I know when the shrimp are done?

Shrimp are cooked when they turn pink and opaque with a slight curl. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery.

Should I leave the tails on or off?

It’s up to personal preference. Tails add presentation value but can be removed before cooking for easier eating.

Can I use cooked shrimp in this recipe?

No, this recipe is designed for raw shrimp—using cooked shrimp would result in overcooking.

What size shrimp should I use?

Large or extra-large shrimp (16/20 count) work best for this recipe. Adjust the cooking time for smaller shrimp.

Can I cook breaded shrimp in the air fryer?

Yes, lightly bread the shrimp and spray with cooking oil for a crispy texture without deep frying.

What’s the best dipping sauce for air fryer shrimp?

Try garlic aioli, cocktail sauce, tartar sauce, or a spicy sriracha mayo.

How do I prevent shrimp from sticking to the air fryer basket?

Lightly spray the basket with cooking oil before adding the shrimp.

Can I marinate the shrimp before cooking?

Yes, marinate the shrimp for 15–30 minutes for extra flavor, but avoid acidic marinades for too long as they can cook the shrimp prematurely.

Do I need to flip the shrimp while cooking?

Yes, flipping halfway through ensures even cooking and a crisp exterior on both sides.

Conclusion

This Air Fryer Shrimp recipe is the perfect combination of quick, healthy, and delicious. With minimal prep and easy cleanup, it’s a must-try for busy weeknights or when you need a high-protein snack in a pinch. Whether served as a main course, appetizer, or tossed into salads and pasta, these shrimp will become a go-to in your kitchen!

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