Easy Air Fryer Shrimp Recipe (Crispy & Juicy in 8 Minutes)

Name: Easy Air Fryer Shrimp Recipe (Crispy & Juicy in 8 Minutes)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 18 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 1 lb Large Shrimps; 2 tbsp Olive Oil; 3 cloves Garlic; 1 tsp Paprika; 1 tsp Italian Seasoning; 1 tsp Salt; 1/2 tsp Black Pepper; 1 Lemon; 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley

Jump To Recipe Print Recipe

Crispy air fryer shrimp garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges, served in a black plate

Making air fryer shrimp is the ultimate game-changer for quick and delicious seafood meals! As someone who’s tested countless shrimp recipes, I can confidently say that the air fryer method is unbeatable for achieving that perfect texture. Did you know that Americans consume an average of 4.6 pounds of shrimp per person annually? It’s no wonder why – especially when you can create restaurant-quality results at home in minutes! Whether you’re using fresh or frozen shrimp in your air fryer, this recipe guarantees perfectly cooked results every time.

The beauty of cooking shrimp in an air fryer lies in its simplicity and consistency. Say goodbye to soggy breading or overcooked, rubbery results. With this method, you’ll achieve that ideal crispy exterior while maintaining a juicy, tender interior. Plus, it’s a healthier alternative to deep frying, making it perfect for anyone watching their calories or following specific dietary guidelines like keto or low-carb.

This versatile recipe works beautifully with both fresh and frozen shrimp (just make sure to thaw frozen shrimp properly first). The quick cooking time makes it perfect for busy weeknights, and the results are consistently impressive enough for entertaining guests. Let’s dive into how to make the perfect air fryer shrimp that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Print Recipe

Easy Air Fryer Shrimp Recipe (Crispy & Juicy in 8 Minutes)

Recipe Categories: Appetizers, Dinner, Lunch Dietary Preferences: Dairy Free Gluten Free High Protein Keto Low Carb Non Vegetarian Pescetarian

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 8 mins Total Time 18 mins

Servings: 4

Description

Discover how to make perfect air fryer shrimp with our foolproof recipe. Whether using fresh or frozen shrimp, achieve restaurant-quality results with crispy exterior and succulent interior every time.

Ingredients

Servings

1 lb Large Shrimps (Around 16-20. Thawed if frozen.)

2 tbsp Olive Oil

3 cloves Garlic (Freshly minced)

1 tsp Paprika

1 tsp Italian Seasoning (Or your favourite one)

1 tsp Salt

¹⁄₂ tsp Black Pepper

1 Lemon (For serving)

2 tbsp Fresh Parsley (Finely chopped)

Instructions

Preparation

If using frozen shrimp in air fryer, thaw completely and pat dry with paper towels
In a large mixing bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until evenly coated
Arrange seasoned shrimp in air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they don't overlap

Cooking

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for optimal crispiness
Air fry shrimp for 5-6 minutes total, flipping halfway through cooking time
Check for doneness - shrimp should be pink, opaque, and slightly curled
Garnish with fresh parsley, red pepper flakes (if you want some spiciness), and serve with lemon wedges

Keywords: air fryer shrimp recipes, shrimp in air fryer, how to cook shrimp in air fryer, crispy air fried shrimp, easy air fryer shrimp

Frequently Asked Questions

Expand All:

Can I air fry shrimp from frozen?

Yes, you can air fry shrimp directly from frozen, though thawing first yields better results! If you must cook frozen shrimp in your air fryer, add 2-3 minutes to the cooking time (making it 7-8 minutes total) and increase the temperature to 400°F. Here's why thawing is preferred: frozen shrimp often release excess moisture during cooking, which can prevent that crispy exterior we're aiming for. Plus, seasonings stick better to thawed shrimp!

Pro tip: If using frozen shrimp, I recommend doing a quick 5-minute thaw by placing them in a colander under cold running water. Pat them completely dry with paper towels before seasoning. This extra step only takes a few minutes but makes a huge difference in the final texture and flavor absorption. For best results, always arrange frozen shrimp in a single layer and shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even crispiness.

How do you get shrimp smell out of an air fryer?

Getting that lingering shrimp smell out of your air fryer is easier than you might think! I've tested multiple cleaning methods, and here are my proven solutions to eliminate seafood odors from your air fryer completely. First, mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a bowl. Remove the air fryer basket and drawer, then soak them in this solution for 15 minutes – this neutralizes those stubborn fishy smells!

For a deep clean, try my favorite method: combine 2 tablespoons of baking soda with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to create a paste. Apply this mixture to the basket and drawer, let it sit for 10 minutes, then wash thoroughly with dish soap and hot water. Don't forget to clean the heating element with a damp cloth after the unit has completely cooled!

You can also try placing a few lemon slices in your air fryer basket, run it at 370°F for 3 minutes, and watch those odors disappear!

For maintenance, always clean your air fryer immediately after cooking shrimp – don't let those smells set in overnight.

File under air fryer recipes easy shrimp recipes healthy cooking quick dinner ideas seafood recipes

Recipe Card powered by

Easy Air Fryer Shrimp Recipe (Crispy & Juicy in 8 Minutes)