Best Air Fryer Shrimp – Quick and Crispy Recipe

There’s something magical about the way shrimp cook—how they curl into perfect little commas, turning from translucent to pink in mere minutes. But here’s a confession: I used to avoid making them at home because I hated the mess of frying or the unevenness of baking. That is, until my air fryer came along. Now, crispy, succulent shrimp are just a button press away, and I’m hooked. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a last-minute appetizer for friends, this air fryer shrimp recipe has become my go-to for effortless, crowd-pleasing flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather these simple ingredients, and let’s make magic happen:

• 1 pound large shrimp – Peeled and deveined (tails on or off—your call!). I love wild-caught shrimp for their sweet, briny flavor.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – Or melted butter for extra richness.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Because garlic makes everything better.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – For that subtle, smoky depth. Regular paprika works too!
• ½ teaspoon onion powder – A little umami boost.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Adjust to taste.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper – Freshly cracked is ideal.
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional) – For a gentle kick. Skip if you’re sensitive to spice.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice – A bright finish. Save some wedges for serving!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s turn these humble ingredients into golden, crispy perfection:

1. Prep the shrimp: Pat your shrimp dry with a paper towel—this is the secret to maximum crispiness! Toss them in a bowl with olive oil, lemon juice, and all the spices until evenly coated.
2. Preheat the air fryer: Set it to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes. A hot start ensures even cooking.
3. Arrange the shrimp: Place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket. No overcrowding—they need space to crisp up! Work in batches if needed.
4. Air fry: Cook for 5–6 minutes, flipping halfway through. Keep an eye on them—shrimp cook fast, and you want them just opaque and slightly golden.
5. Serve immediately: Squeeze fresh lemon over the top, and dig in while they’re hot and crispy!

Tip: If your shrimp are extra large, add a minute or two. And don’t skip the flip—it ensures every bite is perfectly crunchy.

Now that you’ve got the basics down for making perfectly crispy air fryer shrimp, let’s dive into some pro tips and fun variations to make this dish your own!

Pro Tips for the Best Air Fryer Shrimp

• Pat your shrimp dry with paper towels before seasoning – this helps the coating stick better and ensures maximum crispiness
• Don’t overcrowd the basket! Leave space between shrimp for proper air circulation
• For extra crunch, spray the shrimp lightly with cooking oil before air frying
• If using frozen shrimp, thaw completely and pat dry to avoid steaming

Delicious Variations to Try

One of the best things about air fryer shrimp is how versatile it is! Here are some tasty twists:

• Cajun Style: Toss shrimp with 1 tsp Cajun seasoning before cooking
• Garlic Parmesan: Mix 2 tbsp grated Parmesan and 1 tsp garlic powder into the breading
• Sweet Chili: Brush with sweet chili sauce in the last minute of cooking
• Lemon Pepper: Add 1 tsp lemon zest and ½ tsp black pepper to the seasoning

What to Serve with Air Fryer Shrimp

These crispy shrimp pair beautifully with so many sides! Some of our favorites include:

• Creamy coleslaw or a crisp green salad
• Garlic butter noodles or cilantro lime rice
• Roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli
• French fries or sweet potato fries for a surf-and-turf vibe
• Cocktail sauce, remoulade, or aioli for dipping

Storage and Reheating Tips

While air fryer shrimp is best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat:

• Air Fryer Method: Reheat at 350°F for 2-3 minutes until warmed through
• Oven Method: Place on a baking sheet and heat at 350°F for 5-7 minutes

Note: Microwaving isn’t recommended as it can make the shrimp rubbery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them completely first and pat them very dry to remove excess moisture. This prevents steaming and ensures crispy results.

How do I know when the shrimp are done?

Shrimp cook quickly and are done when they turn opaque and pink with a slight curl. The internal temperature should reach 120°F. Be careful not to overcook, as they can become tough.

Can I make breaded shrimp in the air fryer?

Yes! For breaded shrimp, dip in flour, then egg wash, then breadcrumbs before air frying. You may need to spray lightly with oil to help the breading crisp up.

What size shrimp works best?

Medium to large shrimp (31/40 or 21/25 count per pound) work best. Smaller shrimp can overcook quickly, while jumbo shrimp may need an extra minute or two.

There’s something so satisfying about biting into a perfectly cooked air fryer shrimp – that crisp exterior giving way to tender, juicy seafood inside. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests with an appetizer, this method delivers delicious results every time. The best part? You can customize the flavors to suit any craving or occasion. So go ahead – grab that air fryer and let those shrimp fly! Happy cooking!

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