Air Fryer Shrimp made with just a few simple ingredients, these juicy shrimp are seasoned to perfection and cooked to a golden crisp in the air fryer. It can be served as an appetizer, tossed in pasta, or added to a salad. It is quick and easy recipe will become a go-to for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.

Why Make Air Fryer Shrimp?

Using an air fryer for shrimp is not only simple but also makes the shrimp crispy without all the added oil and calories that come with frying. With just a light spritz of olive oil and the right seasoning, the air fryer circulates hot air around the shrimp, giving them that perfect crispy finish on the outside while keeping them juicy and tender inside. Whether you’re cooking up shrimp for a weeknight dinner or serving them as an appetizer at a party, this recipe will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Air Fryer Shrimp

Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: For the crispiest shrimp, arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Overcrowding will cause the shrimp to steam rather than crisp up.

Pat the Shrimp Dry: Moisture is the enemy of crispiness. Make sure your shrimp are dry before seasoning them to ensure the coating sticks and the shrimp get that crispy texture.

Adjust Cooking Time for Size: Larger shrimp may need a minute or two more, while smaller shrimp will cook faster. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

Season to Your Liking: While this recipe uses a classic seasoning blend, feel free to adjust it based on your preferences. Add some lemon zest, switch out the paprika for chili powder, or experiment with different herbs and spices.

Spray with Oil for Extra Crisp: A light spritz of olive oil or avocado oil can help enhance the crispiness. You can also try using cooking spray for a more even application.

Variations of Air Fryer Shrimp

Coconut Shrimp: For a tropical twist, coat the shrimp in breadcrumbs and shredded coconut before air frying. This gives the shrimp a crispy, coconut-flavored crust.

Spicy Shrimp: For those who like some heat, add more cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning. You can also make a spicy dipping sauce by mixing mayonnaise with hot sauce or sriracha.

Garlic Butter Shrimp: After cooking, toss the shrimp in a mixture of melted butter, minced garlic, and fresh parsley. This creates a rich and flavorful dish that pairs perfectly with pasta or rice.

Lemon Pepper Shrimp: For a bright and tangy flavor, mix lemon zest and cracked black pepper into your seasoning. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp right before serving.

How to Serve Air Fryer Shrimp

Air fryer shrimp is incredibly versatile and can be served in many ways. Here are a few ideas:

• As an Appetizer: Serve the shrimp with a cocktail sauce or garlic butter dipping sauce for an easy appetizer.
• Over Pasta: Toss the shrimp with your favorite pasta and sauce for a quick and satisfying meal.
• On a Salad: Add the shrimp to a fresh salad with greens, tomatoes, avocado, and a zesty vinaigrette for a light lunch.
• In Tacos: Use the shrimp as a filling for soft tacos, along with some crunchy slaw, avocado, and a squeeze of lime.

How to Store Leftover Air Fryer Shrimp

If you have any leftover shrimp, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F for about 3-4 minutes, or until heated through, to help maintain their crispy texture.

Freezing Leftovers: If you have a larger batch of shrimp, you can freeze the cooked shrimp. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer to flash freeze for an hour, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. Reheat them in the air fryer when you’re ready to enjoy them again.

Air Fryer Shrimp Recipe FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp works perfectly for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them before cooking. You can quickly thaw shrimp by placing them in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes.

How long do I cook shrimp in the air fryer?

For large shrimp, air fry at 400°F for 6-8 minutes. Smaller shrimp may cook in less time, so keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.

How do I know when my shrimp is done?

Shrimp is cooked when it turns pink and opaque. It should also curl up slightly. If you’re unsure, you can use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 120°F.

Can I use other seasonings for this shrimp recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to play with different seasonings to suit your taste. Try Old Bay seasoning for a classic seafood flavor, Cajun spices for some heat, or Italian herbs for a more Mediterranean flair.

Final outcome

With just a few simple ingredients and the convenience of an air fryer, you can enjoy crispy and flavorful shrimp in no time. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, but also sophisticated enough for a special occasion. Plus, it’s versatile—whether you enjoy your shrimp on a salad, in tacos, or on its own, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Try these other shrimp recipes:

• Shrimp Cocktail
• Shrimp Ceviche
• Shrimp And Rice