Air Fryer Shrimp
Air Fryer Shrimp That’ll Totally Upgrade Your Dinner
Because let’s be real — sometimes you just need dinner that’s quick, crispy, and makes you feel like a gourmet chef without actually leaving your kitchen.
Babe, hear me out…
I was staring at a bag of frozen shrimp, thinking about how many times I overcooked them on the stove and ended up with rubbery little disasters. Then it hit me: the air fryer. I tossed those shrimp in a few spices, set the timer, and boom. Crispy, juicy, golden perfection. I literally did a little happy dance in my kitchen and whispered, “Whoa, I made this?! Yes girl, yes you did.”
Why I Love This Air Fryer Shrimp Recipe
This recipe is a total game-changer. You get perfectly cooked shrimp every single time — crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, with zero fuss. No oil splatters, no overcooking panic, just delicious shrimp that are ready in minutes.
It’s also super versatile. Eat them as a main dish, toss them in a salad, or make tacos — the possibilities are endless. And the aroma? Babe, it’s like a seaside getaway in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Air Fryer Shrimp Ingredients
- 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1–2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Optional: pinch of cayenne for a little kick
Optional Decorations
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Lemon wedges for squeezing
- A drizzle of your favorite sauce (like garlic butter or spicy mayo)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Shrimp
Pat your shrimp dry with a paper towel — this is key for crispiness. Toss them in olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne if you’re feeling spicy. I may have done a little taste test on a stray sprinkle… chef’s privilege.
2. Air Fry Time
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange shrimp in a single layer in the basket. No overcrowding — each shrimp deserves its moment. Cook for 6–8 minutes, shaking halfway through, until they’re pink, golden, and slightly crispy on the edges.
3. Serve & Enjoy
Plate them up immediately. Squeeze some fresh lemon, sprinkle parsley, maybe drizzle a little sauce. Take a bite and let the flavors hit — crispy, juicy, garlicky, and oh-so-satisfying.
Tips for the Perfect Air Fryer Shrimp
- Dry shrimp = crisp shrimp: Don’t skip patting them dry.
- Single layer only: Crowded shrimp = steamed shrimp, not crispy.
- Watch the timer: Overcooking = sad rubbery shrimp.
- Season generously: Air fryer amplifies flavors, so don’t be shy.
Variations You’ll Love
- Spicy Cajun Shrimp: Add Cajun seasoning and paprika for a southern twist.
- Garlic Parmesan Shrimp: Toss with minced garlic and parmesan after cooking.
- Lemon Herb Shrimp: Add thyme, rosemary, and lemon zest for freshness.
- Honey Sriracha Shrimp: Drizzle with honey and sriracha for sweet heat magic.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your air fryer shrimp with:
- Steamed rice or quinoa for a wholesome meal
- A crisp salad for light, fresh vibes
- Soft tortillas for tacos with avocado and slaw
- A chilled white wine or sparkling water to sip while you pretend it’s a fancy restaurant
These shrimp are so quick, easy, and delicious that you might start making them every week. Trust me, once you try this air fryer method, you’ll never go back to the stovetop panic.
Babe, grab your fork, take a bite, and do that little happy dance in your kitchen — you totally earned it.
Love you long time,
Maria
Air Fryer Shrimp
Ingredients
Air Fryer Shrimp Ingredients
- 1 pound raw shrimp peeled and deveined
- 1 –2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Optional: pinch of cayenne for a little kick
Optional Decorations
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Lemon wedges for squeezing
- A drizzle of your favorite sauce like garlic butter or spicy mayo
Instructions
Prep the Shrimp
- Pat your shrimp dry with a paper towel — this is key for crispiness. Toss them in olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne if you’re feeling spicy. I may have done a little taste test on a stray sprinkle… chef’s privilege.
Air Fry Time
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange shrimp in a single layer in the basket. No overcrowding — each shrimp deserves its moment. Cook for 6–8 minutes, shaking halfway through, until they’re pink, golden, and slightly crispy on the edges.
Serve & Enjoy
- Plate them up immediately. Squeeze some fresh lemon, sprinkle parsley, maybe drizzle a little sauce. Take a bite and let the flavors hit — crispy, juicy, garlicky, and oh-so-satisfying.
Notes
- Use raw shrimp for the best texture — frozen cooked shrimp can dry out quickly.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket — crispiness needs space.
- Fresh lemon juice at the end is non-negotiable for that zesty kick.
- Want extra flavor? Marinate the shrimp in olive oil, garlic, and spices for 20 minutes before air frying.
- These are best eaten fresh, but you can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheat in the air fryer for 2–3 minutes.
