Air Fryer Shrimp Recipe

This Air Fryer Shrimp Recipe is the lightning-fast weeknight dinnertime hero you’ve been seeking! Perfectly seasoned, plump shrimp get irresistibly juicy in under 10 minutes and deliver flavor far beyond their quick prep time. Whether you’re a seasoned air fryer fan or just dipping your toe into the world of quick-cooking seafood, this Air Fryer Shrimp Recipe will become your new go-to favorite!

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a few kitchen staples and some gorgeous shrimp, this Air Fryer Shrimp Recipe delivers maximum flavor in minimum time. Here’s how each ingredient shines and tips to get the most of them!

• Large shrimp (1 pound, peeled and deveined): Look for raw, large or extra-large shrimp for the juiciest texture and most satisfying bite. Fresh or thawed frozen both work—just make sure they’re fully dry before seasoning.
• Avocado oil (2 tablespoons): This oil’s high smoke point keeps your shrimp tender and prevents burning, plus it adds a light, buttery background flavor.
• Garlic powder (¼ teaspoon): A little goes a long way—garlic powder infuses each shrimp with deep savory undertones without overpowering.
• Paprika (1 teaspoon): This adds a pop of color and a subtle smokiness that makes the shrimp extra-irresistible (try smoked paprika for even more depth!).
• Salt (½ teaspoon): Essential for seasoning the shrimp all the way through. Adjust to taste if you like things more or less salty.
• Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Just a touch rounds out the spice blend and gives your shrimp a mellow kick.
• Lemon wedges (for serving, optional): A final squeeze wakes up every flavor and adds brightness, beautifully balancing the richness.
• Chopped parsley (for garnish, optional): For a burst of color and freshness—totally optional, but highly recommended for that chef’s table look!

Variations

Don’t be afraid to let your creativity loose! This Air Fryer Shrimp Recipe is easily customized—switch up the seasonings, adjust the spice level, or make it paleo or keto-friendly in seconds. Here are just a few delicious ideas:

• Spicy Cajun: Swap paprika for Cajun or Creole seasoning and add a pinch of cayenne for shrimp with a Southern kick.
• Lemon Herb: Stir dried oregano, thyme, or Italian seasoning into the oil before tossing with shrimp for a Mediterranean twist.
• Coconut Crunch: For a tropical version, dredge shrimp in shredded coconut before air frying and serve with sweet chili sauce.
• Butter-Garlic Lover’s: Use melted butter in place of some or all of the oil for ultra-rich, restaurant-style shrimp.
• Keto-Friendly: The original recipe is naturally low-carb, but you can skip paprika or choose a no-sugar spice blend to keep it extra keto.

How to Make Air Fryer Shrimp Recipe

Step 1: Season the Shrimp

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the avocado oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This simple but powerful blend will coat every shrimp in bold flavor. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp and toss to coat thoroughly. Let everything marinate for 10 minutes so the seasoning really soaks in—trust me, this short rest makes a big difference!

Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This helps the shrimp start cooking the second they hit the basket, giving you that crave-worthy exterior and maximum juiciness inside.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Arrange the marinated shrimp in a single layer in your air fryer basket—don’t overcrowd or they won’t crisp evenly! Air fry for 5-6 minutes, shaking the basket once halfway through. The shrimp are done when pink, opaque, and slightly curled.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

Quickly transfer the hot shrimp to a serving platter. Squeeze plenty of fresh lemon juice over the top and sprinkle with chopped parsley if you like. Serve them piping-hot and savor every juicy, flavor-packed bite!

How to Serve Air Fryer Shrimp Recipe

Garnishes

A finishing burst of color and flavor always elevates shrimp! Classic chopped parsley makes your Air Fryer Shrimp Recipe shine, but a scatter of fresh dill or cilantro also works beautifully. And whatever you do, don’t skip those lemon wedges—freshly squeezed juice takes this shrimp over the top, cutting through the richness for a sparkling final note.

Side Dishes

This recipe is a superstar alongside fluffy rice pilaf, garlic butter noodles, or a crisp green salad. For summer vibes, serve with corn on the cob, grilled zucchini, or a scoop of creamy coleslaw. And for entertaining, arrange on a platter with cocktail sauce and toothpicks for a fuss-free appetizer!

Creative Ways to Present

The possibilities are endless! Pile these juicy shrimp into warm tortillas for instant shrimp tacos, layer over Caesar salad for a protein punch, or skewer and serve with a dipping sauce for party-ready bites. You can even use them as a topper for bowls, flatbreads, or creamy grits for a Southern twist. Let your imagination set the menu!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), let the shrimp cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Try to enjoy within two days for the very best texture, as shrimp tends to become more delicate the longer it sits.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked shrimp for up to 2-3 months—just make sure they’re cooled first and separated by parchment if possible. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to keep them juicy and tender.

Reheating

To revive your Air Fryer Shrimp Recipe without overcooking, pop the shrimp back into the air fryer at 300°F for just 2-3 minutes. Watch closely—shrimp reheat in a flash and you don’t want them rubbery!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for an easy, absolutely irresistible dish, look no further than this Air Fryer Shrimp Recipe. Give it a try—and don’t forget to share your favorite creative twists! I know you’ll come back to this speedy, succulent shrimp again and again.

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