Introduction
This Air Fryer Shrimp takes 18 minutes from start to finish and gives you tender, juicy shrimp with a well-seasoned crust. It is a good seafood dinner for a busy week.
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The air fryer cooks the shrimp fast and uses far less oil than deep frying. The outside gets a light crunch while the inside stays moist, because the shrimp hold on to their juices.
The ingredient list is short, and you probably have most of it in the pantry already: large shrimp, olive oil, and a spice blend of garlic powder, paprika, salt and pepper. A little cayenne pepper gives it a kick.
Serve it for a cozy dinner at home or put it out when friends come over.
Key ingredients
Large shrimp (1 pound)
Use large shrimp, peeled and deveined. They are naturally sweet and firm, so they cook quickly and evenly in the air fryer and soak up the spices.
Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
Olive oil coats the shrimp so they crisp up, and it adds a rich, fruity flavor that goes well with the seasonings.
Garlic powder (1 teaspoon)
Garlic powder gives you garlic flavor and aroma without peeling and mincing fresh cloves.
Paprika (1 teaspoon)
Paprika adds a mild sweetness and a warm red color to the shrimp.
Cayenne pepper (1/2 teaspoon)
Cayenne brings the heat and wakes up the palate. Use less if you want the shrimp mild, or more if your table likes spice.
Salt (1 teaspoon) and black pepper (1/2 teaspoon)
Salt brings out the sweetness of the shrimp, and black pepper adds a gentle warmth that rounds out the other spices.
Why you’ll love this recipe
The shrimp come out crisp on the outside and tender inside in a matter of minutes, with very little work.
The seasoning is simple. Garlic powder, paprika and cayenne pepper make a blend that brings out the natural sweetness of the shrimp. With only 18 minutes from start to finish, it works on a weeknight and is just as good for a casual dinner with guests.
It also fits several eating styles, including Paleo. Shrimp is high in protein and low in carbohydrates, and you can turn the spice level up or down for the people at your table.
Variations
Flavor variations
The easiest change is the seasoning. For a Mediterranean version, use lemon zest and oregano in place of the paprika and cayenne. For an Asian-inspired version, add soy sauce and ginger to the marinade.
Add-ins and pairings
Cook vegetables in the air fryer with the shrimp. Bell peppers, zucchini and asparagus all work. Toss them with olive oil and seasoning and air fry them alongside the shrimp for a complete meal. Spicy mayo or a tangy cocktail sauce on the side is a good finish.
Cooking methods
No air fryer? Grill or sauté the shrimp instead. Both give good results, although you will not get quite the same crisp outside that the air fryer gives.
Cooking tips and notes
Prepping the shrimp
Make sure the shrimp are fully peeled and deveined, which improves both the look and the texture. Pat them dry with a paper towel so the seasoning sticks.
Don’t overcrowd the basket
Leave space between the shrimp so hot air can move around each one and crisp the outside. If you have a lot of shrimp, cook them in batches. Crowded shrimp steam instead of crisping.
Adjusting cooking time
Cooking time depends on the size of your shrimp and on your air fryer model. Shrimp cook fast, usually in about 6-8 minutes. Watch them toward the end; they are done when they turn pink and opaque.
Experiment with dipping sauces
Try the shrimp with different dips, from a spicy aioli to a classic cocktail sauce. A good dip can change the whole character of the meal, so set out two if you cannot decide.
Serving suggestions
Side dishes
A fresh salad or steamed vegetables keep things simple. A light citrus or avocado salad gives a cool contrast, and roasted asparagus or broccoli adds more vegetables to the plate. For something heartier, serve the shrimp over quinoa or brown rice, which soaks up the leftover seasoning.
Dipping sauces
Offer a few dips. Cocktail sauce, garlic aioli and a zesty remoulade are the classics. If you like heat, add a spicy sriracha mayo or a tangy buffalo sauce. Guests can then season each bite the way they like.
Serving style
For a casual gathering, pile the shrimp in a bowl with toothpicks for easy snacking. For a sit-down dinner, plate them with your sides and garnish with fresh herbs or lemon wedges.
Time breakdown
Preparation
Plan about 10 minutes to peel, devein and season the shrimp with the olive oil and spices.
Cooking
The shrimp need just 6-8 minutes in the air fryer. Cook them in a single layer so they crisp evenly, and take them out when they turn pink.
Total
Allow about 18 minutes from start to finish, which makes this an easy pick for busy weeknights or last-minute guests.
Nutritional facts
Because the shrimp are air fried, this dish is lower in calories than traditional fried shrimp.
Each serving contains approximately 220 calories and 10 grams of total fat, including 1 gram of saturated fat. Protein is 25 grams per serving, and carbohydrates are only 2 grams, which suits several eating plans, Paleo among them.
Each serving also has 180 milligrams of cholesterol and 800 milligrams of sodium. If you are watching your sodium intake, keep that in mind and enjoy it in moderation.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know when the shrimp are done cooking?
They turn pink and opaque. In the air fryer this usually takes 6-8 minutes at 400°F (200°C). If you are unsure, cut one open: it should be firm and white in the center.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, but thaw them first so they cook evenly. A quick soak in cold water works when you are short on time. If they are still cold going in, add a little cooking time.
What dipping sauces pair well with Air Fryer Shrimp?
Cocktail sauce, garlic aioli and spicy sriracha mayo are the most popular choices. Each one goes well with the paprika and garlic seasoning and adds another layer of flavor.
How can I store leftovers?
Keep leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Eat them cold, or reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to bring back some crispness.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Shrimp is a quick seafood dinner with simple seasoning and a crisp finish from very little oil. Change the spices, pick a dip, and if you try your own version, share it with friends and family.
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Written and edited by The Foodie Yummy Kitchen Team
The Foodie Yummy Kitchen Team writes and edits the recipes on Foodie Yummy: classic American potluck salads, holiday sides and easy comfort food, with a few low-carb options. Every recipe lists exact quantities, numbered steps and a printable recipe card, plus notes on swaps, storage and make-ahead timing. Spot a problem with a recipe? Tell us through the contact page and we will correct it. About us
Air Fryer Shrimp
Ingredients
Instructions
In a bowl, combine the shrimp with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
Toss until the shrimp are evenly coated.
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
Place the shrimp in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
Cook for 6-8 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Serve immediately with your choice of dipping sauce.
Notes
Adjust the spices according to your taste.
For best results, do not overcrowd the air fryer basket.
Nutrition
| Serving Size | 1 cup |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 calories |
| Sugar Content | 1g |
| Sodium Content | 800mg |
| Fat Content | 10g |
| Saturated Fat Content | 1g |
| Unsaturated Fat Content | 9g |
| Trans Fat Content | 0g |
| Carbohydrate Content | 2g |
| Fiber Content | 0g |
| Protein Content | 25g |
| Cholesterol Content | 180mg |