Air fryer shrimp is a great go-to dish because it’s both fast and flavorful. You’ll love how the air fryer gives the shrimp a lightly crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy and tender. It’s a low-carb, high-protein option that works well for lunch, dinner, or meal prep. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can serve it over salads, pasta, rice, or as a standalone snack with your favorite dipping sauce.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
Olive oil
Garlic powder
Paprika
Salt
Black pepper
Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
Directions
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding.
Cook for 6–8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
Remove from the air fryer and serve immediately with lemon wedges, if desired.
Spicy Shrimp: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a kick.
Cajun Style: Swap the seasoning for Cajun seasoning for a bold, smoky flavor.
Garlic Butter: Toss the cooked shrimp in melted garlic butter before serving.
Lemon Herb: Add lemon zest and fresh chopped herbs like parsley or dill.
Panko Crusted: Lightly coat the shrimp in seasoned panko before air frying for extra crunch.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place them back in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the shrimp rubbery.
FAQs
How do I know when the shrimp are done in the air fryer?
The shrimp will turn pink and opaque when fully cooked. They should also be slightly firm to the touch.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning and air frying.
Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
Yes, preheating helps the shrimp cook evenly and develop a better texture.
What size shrimp is best for this recipe?
Medium to large shrimp (such as 21/25 count per pound) work well in the air fryer.
Can I use cooked shrimp?
It’s best to use raw shrimp. Cooked shrimp may become tough and overcooked in the air fryer.
What dipping sauces go well with air fryer shrimp?
Cocktail sauce, garlic aioli, or a simple lemon butter sauce are all great options.
Can I marinate the shrimp before air frying?
Yes, a short marinade of 15–30 minutes in your choice of spices or citrus can enhance flavor.
How do I prevent the shrimp from sticking to the basket?
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray before adding the shrimp.
Is air fryer shrimp healthy?
Yes, it’s a healthier alternative to deep frying, using minimal oil while maintaining flavor and texture.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but you may need to cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.
Conclusion
Air fryer shrimp is a quick, healthy, and flavorful dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. With just a few pantry staples and less than 15 minutes, you can whip up a satisfying meal or appetizer that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re keeping it simple or customizing with your favorite flavors, this recipe is as easy as it is delicious.
Air fryer shrimp is a quick, healthy, and flavorful dish made with simple ingredients. This recipe delivers juicy, crispy shrimp in under 15 minutes using minimal oil, making it a perfect low-carb, high-protein option for busy weeknights or appetizers.
Ingredients
1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket, avoiding overcrowding.
Cook for 6–8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
Remove from the air fryer and serve immediately with lemon wedges, if desired.
Notes
Add cayenne or chili flakes for a spicy version.
Swap spices with Cajun seasoning for a bold flavor.
Toss cooked shrimp in garlic butter for added richness.
Add lemon zest and herbs for a fresh twist.For extra crunch, coat shrimp in seasoned panko before air frying.Store leftovers in the fridge up to 3 days in an airtight container.Reheat in air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes; avoid microwaving.Use raw, thawed shrimp for best results.Lightly spray the air fryer basket to prevent sticking.
