Air Fryer Shrimp is a quick, healthy, and flavorful way to enjoy succulent shrimp without the need for deep frying. Using an air fryer, shrimp cook perfectly in just minutes, developing a slightly crispy exterior while staying tender and juicy inside.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, quick lunches, or as a delicious appetizer for parties. Whether seasoned simply with garlic and lemon or spiced with Cajun seasoning, air fryer shrimp are a versatile protein that can be paired with salads, rice, pasta, tacos, or enjoyed on their own.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love Air Fryer Shrimp because it’s fast, healthy, and incredibly versatile. In under 10 minutes, you get perfectly cooked shrimp with minimal oil and cleanup. The air fryer gives a subtle crispiness without making the shrimp greasy, keeping them tender and flavorful.
It’s also a recipe that can be customized endlessly with different seasonings or marinades. Plus, it’s a great way to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why It’s a Must-Try Dish
- Quick and easy: Ready in under 15 minutes from start to finish.
- Healthy: Minimal oil required, high in protein, low in calories.
- Versatile: Can be seasoned in countless ways to match any cuisine.
- Family-friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.
- Perfect texture: Slightly crispy outside, tender inside, every time.
Once you try it, Air Fryer Shrimp quickly becomes a go-to for fast, flavorful meals.
Recipe Overview
- Course: Main Course / Appetizer
- Cuisine: American / Seafood
- Preparation Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 6–8 minutes
- Total Time: 12–13 minutes
- Servings: 2–4 (depending on portion size)
- Calories: ~180 kcal per serving
Ingredients
- 1 pound (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
- Pat shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- In a mixing bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Ensure all shrimp are evenly coated with the seasoning.
Step 3: Air Fry the Shrimp
- Place shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd; cook in batches if necessary.
- Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 6–8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
- Shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque, with a slightly crispy exterior.
Step 4: Add Lemon and Garnish
- Remove shrimp from the air fryer and drizzle with fresh lemon juice.
- Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve immediately as a main dish, appetizer, or over your favorite sides like rice, salad, pasta, or tacos.
How to Serve
- As an appetizer with cocktail sauce or garlic aioli.
- Over a fresh green salad or grain bowl for a light lunch.
- Topped on pasta, rice, or quinoa for a filling meal.
- Inside tacos, wraps, or lettuce cups for a flavorful dinner option.
Recipe Tips
- Pat shrimp dry: Ensures a crisp exterior in the air fryer.
- Do not overcrowd: Cook shrimp in batches to avoid steaming instead of crisping.
- Even coating: Toss shrimp with oil and spices thoroughly for uniform flavor.
- Timing: Shrimp cook very quickly; overcooking makes them rubbery.
- Customize: Add Old Bay, Cajun seasoning, or Italian herbs for different flavor profiles.
Variations
- Cajun Shrimp: Use 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning instead of paprika and garlic powder.
- Lemon Garlic Shrimp: Add minced fresh garlic and extra lemon zest.
- Coconut Shrimp: Coat shrimp in shredded coconut and panko before air frying.
- Honey Sriracha Shrimp: Toss cooked shrimp in a honey-sriracha glaze for a sweet and spicy twist.
- Garlic Parmesan Shrimp: Sprinkle cooked shrimp with grated Parmesan and garlic powder before serving.
Freezing and Storage
- Refrigeration: Store cooked shrimp in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Best eaten fresh for texture.
- Freezing:
- Freeze raw, seasoned shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
- Cook from frozen in the air fryer, adding 2–3 extra minutes to cooking time.
- Leftover reheating: Reheat quickly in the air fryer for 2–3 minutes to maintain crispness. Avoid microwaving, which can make shrimp rubbery.
Special Equipment Needed
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowl
- Tongs or spatula
- Paper towels
- Measuring spoons
Conclusion
Air Fryer Shrimp is a fast, healthy, and incredibly flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights, quick lunches, or impressive appetizers. With minimal oil, quick cooking time, and endless seasoning possibilities, it’s a versatile recipe that delivers perfectly cooked shrimp every time.
From Cajun-spiced to honey-sriracha glazed, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves seafood that’s easy, flavorful, and fuss-free. Juicy, tender, and slightly crispy, these shrimp are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Air Fryer Shrimp
Air Fryer Shrimp is a quick, healthy, and flavorful way to enjoy succulent shrimp without the need for deep frying. Using an air fryer, shrimp cook perfectly in just minutes, developing a slightly crispy exterior while staying tender and juicy inside.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer : Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes.
-
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp : Pat shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. In a mixing bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Ensure all shrimp are evenly coated with the seasoning.
-
Step 3: Air Fry the Shrimp : Place shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd; cook in batches if necessary. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 6–8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking. Shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque, with a slightly crispy exterior.
-
Step 4: Add Lemon and Garnish : Remove shrimp from the air fryer and drizzle with fresh lemon juice. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
-
Step 5: Serve : Serve immediately as a main dish, appetizer, or over your favorite sides like rice, salad, pasta, or tacos.
