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!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Unbelievable Speed: From start to finish, you’ll have restaurant-worthy shrimp on the table in 16 minutes flat!
  • Big Flavor, Simple Steps: A handful of spices and a toss in avocado oil create shrimp bursting with smoky, garlicky goodness.
  • Healthier Indulgence: Air frying means crispy, tender shrimp with hardly any added oil—and no greasy mess to clean up.
  • Versatile for Any Meal: Serve as an appetizer, stuff into tacos, or toss on a salad—this Air Fryer Shrimp Recipe fits every craving and occasion.
Air Fryer Shrimp Recipe - Recipe Image

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!
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

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!

Pro Tips for Making Air Fryer Shrimp Recipe

  • Maximize Marinade Magic: Even a short 10-minute marinade lets shrimp soak up the spices—don’t skip this tiny step for restaurant-level flavor!
  • Single-Layer Success: Always place shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket so hot air can circulate evenly; overcrowding leads to uneven cooking.
  • Keep a Close Eye: Shrimp can go from perfect to overcooked in under a minute—start checking at 5 minutes and pull out as soon as they’re just opaque and pink.
  • Oil Matters: Using an oil with a high smoke point, like avocado oil, keeps shrimp tender and prevents sticking or smoke in the air fryer.

How to Serve Air Fryer Shrimp Recipe

Air Fryer Shrimp Recipe - Recipe Image

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

  1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this Air Fryer Shrimp Recipe?

    Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before tossing with oil and spices. This helps the seasoning stick and prevents steaming in the air fryer.

  2. How do I prevent my shrimp from turning out rubbery?

    The secret is not to overcook! Shrimp are ready when they are pink and slightly curled—5-6 minutes in the air fryer is perfect for large shrimp. Check for doneness right at the 5-minute mark for guaranteed juicy results.

  3. Can I double the recipe in one batch?

    If you want to make a bigger batch, cook the shrimp in batches instead of crowding the air fryer basket. Overcrowding will lead to uneven cooking and less crispy shrimp, so patience pays off here!

  4. What’s the best oil for air frying shrimp?

    Avocado oil is wonderful thanks to its high smoke point and neutral flavor, but you can use coconut oil or even melted butter if you want a different twist. Avoid extra virgin olive oil as it can smoke at high temps.

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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Air Fryer Shrimp Recipe

Air Fryer Shrimp Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 5 from 83 reviews
  • Author: Mia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 minutes
  • Total Time: 16 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Appetizer, Main Course
  • Method: Air Fry
  • Cuisine: Seafood
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Air Fryer Shrimp Recipe results in perfectly cooked, flavorful shrimp that are quick to make and a delight to enjoy. Seasoned with a blend of spices, these shrimp are air-fried to crispy perfection, making them a fantastic appetizer or main dish.


Ingredients

Units Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons avocado oil

Seasoning:

  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For Serving:

  • Lemon wedges (optional)
  • Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Seasoning: In a bowl, combine the avocado oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Marinate the Shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl, toss to coat, and let marinate for about 10 minutes.
  3. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.
  4. Cook the Shrimp: Place the seasoned shrimp in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are in a single layer and not overlapping. Cook for 5-6 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
  5. Serve: Once the shrimp are pink and opaque, serve hot with lemon wedges and chopped parsley.

Notes

  • Thawing Shrimp: If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are completely thawed for even cooking.
  • Checking Doneness: Shrimp are done when pink and slightly curled; avoid overcooking.
  • Adjust Seasonings: Customize garlic powder, paprika, salt, or pepper to suit your taste.
  • Oil Options: Use avocado oil for its high smoke point or choose coconut oil or melted butter.
  • Prevent Overcooking: Shrimp cook quickly, so avoid overcooking to prevent rubbery texture.
  • Prevent Sticking: Coat shrimp well with oil and use non-stick spray to avoid sticking in the basket.
  • Oven-Baked Option: Bake shrimp in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for 8-10 minutes if air fryer is not available.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 230 kcal
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Sodium: 650mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 2g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 24g
  • Cholesterol: 220mg

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