Air Fryer Shrimp

Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Shrimp Recipe

This air fryer shrimp recipe is fast, flavorful, and requires minimal effort. The shrimp turn out juicy on the inside with a crispy exterior thanks to the hot circulating air. Plus, it’s versatile—you can season it any way you like, and it pairs wonderfully with dips, salads, or pasta. It’s also a great low-carb, high-protein meal option.

ingredients

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

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• Optional: pinch of cayenne pepper for heat

• Lemon wedges, for serving

directions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.

2. In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne if using, until evenly coated.

3. Place the shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t overlap.

4. Cook for 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the shrimp are pink, opaque, and crispy on the edges.

5. Serve immediately with lemon wedges.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 3 to 4 people. Preparation time is about 5 minutes, and cooking time is roughly 8 minutes, making the total time under 15 minutes.

Variations

• Spicy Cajun Shrimp: Add 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning instead of smoked paprika.

• Garlic Parmesan Shrimp: Toss cooked shrimp with melted butter, minced garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese.

• Lemon Herb Shrimp: Add chopped fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice after cooking.

• Asian-Inspired: Marinate shrimp briefly in soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil before air frying.

storage/reheating

Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in the air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to keep them crispy.

FAQs

How do I know when the shrimp are cooked?

Shrimp turn pink and opaque when fully cooked. They should also curl slightly into a loose “C” shape.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, but thaw them completely and pat dry before seasoning and air frying for best results.

Can I double the recipe?

You can double it, but cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket for even cooking.

What size shrimp is best for air frying?

Large shrimp (16-20 count per pound) work best for even cooking and a good texture.

Can I use other seasonings?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize with your favorite spices and herbs.

Do I need to preheat the air fryer?

Preheating helps achieve a crispy texture and even cooking but some models allow you to skip this step.

How do I prevent shrimp from sticking to the basket?

Lightly oil the basket or use perforated parchment paper designed for air fryers.

Can I air fry shrimp without oil?

You can, but a little oil helps achieve a crispier exterior and better flavor.

Is air fryer shrimp healthy?

Yes, it’s a healthier alternative to deep frying because it uses less oil while still delivering a crispy texture.

What can I serve with air fryer shrimp?

Serve with lemon wedges, cocktail sauce, over salad, pasta, or rice for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Air fryer shrimp is a delicious, quick, and healthy option for any meal or snack. Its versatility in seasoning and speedy cooking time makes it a go-to recipe for shrimp lovers. Whether you’re preparing a simple dinner or a party appetizer, this recipe delivers crispy, flavorful shrimp every time.