Air Fryer Shrimp

Air Fryer Shrimp is a quick and easy recipe perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner or a quick snack. The shrimp come out juicy and flavorful with a slightly crispy exterior, thanks to the air fryer. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy restaurant-quality shrimp at home in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: This recipe takes less than 15 minutes from start to finish.
• Healthy: Air frying uses less oil compared to traditional frying methods.
• Versatile: Serve these shrimp as a main dish, in tacos, or on salads.
• Minimal cleanup: The air fryer does most of the work, leaving you with fewer dishes to clean.
• Customizable: You can adjust the seasoning to fit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Ingredients

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

• Shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Olive oil or cooking spray
• Garlic powder
• Paprika
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Lemon wedges (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Place the shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Be sure not to overcrowd the shrimp.
4. Cook the shrimp for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking, until they turn pink and slightly crispy on the edges.
5. Remove the shrimp from the air fryer and serve immediately with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe makes about 4 servings.
• Preparation time: 5 minutes
• Cooking time: 5-7 minutes

Variations

• Spicy shrimp: Add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a spicy kick.
• Garlic butter shrimp: Toss the shrimp in melted garlic butter after cooking for a rich flavor.
• Cajun shrimp: Use a Cajun seasoning blend instead of paprika and garlic powder for a Southern twist.
• Panko-crusted shrimp: Coat the shrimp with a light layer of panko breadcrumbs before air frying for an extra crunch.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 2-3 minutes or until warmed through. You can also reheat them in a microwave, but they might lose some crispiness.

FAQs

How long do you cook shrimp in the air fryer?

Shrimp typically take 5-7 minutes to cook in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C). Be sure to shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even crisping.

Do you need to thaw frozen shrimp before air frying?

Yes, it’s best to thaw shrimp before air frying to ensure even cooking. You can thaw shrimp by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or running them under cold water for a few minutes.

Can I use frozen shrimp in the air fryer?

Yes, you can air fry frozen shrimp, but the cooking time may need to be increased by a few minutes. For best results, it’s recommended to thaw the shrimp first.

Do you need to flip the shrimp while cooking in the air fryer?

Shrimp cook quickly, so you don’t need to flip them. However, shaking the air fryer basket halfway through cooking helps achieve even crisping.

What size shrimp should I use for air frying?

Medium to large shrimp work best for air frying. Smaller shrimp may cook too quickly and dry out, while larger shrimp may require a slightly longer cooking time.

Can I use cooked shrimp in this recipe?

No, using precooked shrimp is not recommended, as they will likely overcook and become rubbery. Raw shrimp work best for air frying.

How can I prevent the shrimp from sticking to the air fryer basket?

Spraying the air fryer basket with cooking spray or lightly coating the shrimp with olive oil helps prevent sticking.

What can I serve with air fryer shrimp?

Air fryer shrimp pair well with rice, quinoa, or a side salad. You can also use them in tacos, wraps, or on top of pasta dishes.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, but make sure not to overcrowd the shrimp in the air fryer basket. Cook them in batches if needed to ensure even cooking and crisping.

How do I know when the shrimp are done?

The shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque, with slightly crispy edges. You can also check that the internal temperature reaches 120°F (49°C) using a meat thermometer.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Shrimp is a delicious, quick, and healthy dish that you’ll want to make on repeat. Whether you enjoy them as a light meal, a party appetizer, or part of your favorite dishes, this versatile recipe is sure to impress. With endless variations and minimal effort, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. Enjoy the crispy, flavorful shrimp with your favorite sides or in tacos and salads.

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