Air Fryer Shrimp

Shrimp is one of those ingredients that feels fancy but is surprisingly easy to prepare. With the magic of an air fryer, you can have perfectly cooked shrimp that’s juicy on the inside and slightly crisp on the outside in just minutes. This recipe is simple, quick, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, appetizers, or even meal prep. The best part? You only need a handful of ingredients to create this delicious dish that pairs beautifully with salads, rice, or your favorite dipping sauce. Ready to elevate your shrimp game? Let’s dive in!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

If you’re looking for a quick and healthy way to enjoy shrimp, this air fryer recipe is a game changer. Using the air fryer means you get that lovely crispy texture without deep frying in oil, which keeps the dish lighter. The garlic and olive oil combo infuses the shrimp with a subtle, robust flavor without overpowering the natural sweetness of the seafood. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile — whether you want to toss it in a salad, serve over pasta, or enjoy as a snack, this shrimp cooks up perfectly every time. It’s also a fantastic option for those busy days when you want something delicious on the table fast without sacrificing taste or quality.

Ingredients

• 1 pound shrimp – thawed, shells removed, and deveined (tails can be left on for presentation)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – adds richness and helps with crisping
• 1 clove garlic, minced – brings aromatic depth and flavor
• Salt and pepper – to taste, for seasoning

How To Make Air Fryer Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

First, make sure your shrimp are fully thawed if you used frozen shrimp. Pat them dry with paper towels — this helps the olive oil and garlic stick better and ensures a nice crisp finish. Remove the shells and devein the shrimp if this hasn’t been done already. Leaving the tails on is optional but can make for a pretty presentation.

Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp

In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss the shrimp in this mixture until evenly coated. Let them sit for about 5 to 10 minutes to absorb the flavors. This quick marinade enhances the natural taste of the shrimp without overpowering it.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 to 5 minutes. Preheating ensures the shrimp start cooking immediately and helps achieve a crispy exterior.

Step 4: Air Fry the Shrimp

Place the shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure they cook evenly and get that perfect crisp. Cook for about 6 to 8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to flip the shrimp. Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them — they should turn pink and opaque when done.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the shrimp from the air fryer and serve immediately. These shrimp are fantastic on their own, tossed in a salad, or served alongside your favorite grains or vegetables. For extra flair, squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the top and garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro.

Expert Tips

• Patting the shrimp dry before marinating helps them crisp up better in the air fryer.
• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if needed for even cooking.
• Adjust cooking time based on shrimp size — larger shrimp may need a minute or two longer.
• Use fresh garlic for the best flavor; garlic powder can be a substitute but won’t be as aromatic.
• For an extra crispy texture, add a light dusting of cornstarch or breadcrumbs before air frying.
• Serve immediately for the best texture; shrimp tend to get a bit rubbery if reheated.

Variations and Customizations

• Spicy Shrimp: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the marinade for a kick of heat.
• Lemon Herb: Mix in fresh lemon zest and chopped herbs like parsley, dill, or basil with the garlic and olive oil.
• Asian-Inspired: Add a splash of soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free) and a drizzle of sesame oil to the marinade, then sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds after cooking.
• Garlic Parmesan: Toss cooked shrimp with grated Parmesan cheese and minced garlic for a rich, savory twist.
• Coconut Curry: Mix in a teaspoon of curry powder and a tablespoon of coconut oil instead of olive oil for a tropical flavor.

How to Store Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftover air fryer shrimp (though they rarely last long!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 2 days. When reheating, use the air fryer or oven at a low temperature to avoid overcooking and drying them out — about 2 to 3 minutes at 350°F (175°C) should do the trick. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make shrimp rubbery. Leftover shrimp can also be added cold to salads or wraps for a quick lunch option.

FAQ

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw the shrimp before cooking. Pat them dry to remove excess moisture, which helps them crisp up nicely in the air fryer.

What size shrimp works best for air frying?

Medium to large shrimp (about 31-40 count per pound) are ideal because they cook quickly and evenly. However, smaller shrimp can be used too; just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Do I need to peel and devein shrimp before air frying?

It’s best to remove shells and devein the shrimp for easier eating, but you can leave the tails on for a nicer presentation. Some people prefer cooking shrimp with shells on for extra flavor, but it will take longer to cook.

Can I double this recipe for a larger batch?

Yes! Just cook the shrimp in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Overcrowding can result in uneven cooking and less crispy shrimp.

Conclusion

This air fryer shrimp recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a quick, flavorful, and healthy seafood dish with minimal effort. With just a few simple ingredients and a few minutes in the air fryer, you can have perfectly cooked shrimp that’s tender, juicy, and deliciously garlicky. Whether you’re serving it up for a casual dinner, an appetizer for guests, or adding it to your favorite dishes, this recipe is a versatile kitchen hero you’ll return to time and time again. So, grab your shrimp, fire up your air fryer, and enjoy a taste of easy, irresistible seafood tonight!