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Easy Air Fryer Shrimp Recipe

Featured in: Fresh and Flavorful Seafood Made Simple

This easy air fryer shrimp recipe transforms simple ingredients into a delicious meal in minutes. The shrimp are seasoned with a savory blend of garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper, then tossed in avocado oil to ensure they stay juicy during cooking. After a brief 10-minute marinade to absorb the flavors, the shrimp cook to pink perfection in just 5-6 minutes in a preheated air fryer. The result is tender, flavorful shrimp with a beautiful color that can be served as an appetizer, added to pasta or salads, or enjoyed as a protein-packed main dish. With minimal prep and quick cooking time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a healthy, delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
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marry from tastelikemagic.com
Updated on Sun, 09 Mar 2025 01:29:09 GMT
Easy Air Fryer Shrimp Pin it
Easy Air Fryer Shrimp | tastelikemagic.com

Plump juicy shrimp coated in a flavorful seasoning blend and air fried to crispy perfection create an irresistible protein option that comes together in minutes. The rapid hot air circulation of the air fryer locks in moisture while creating a slightly crispy exterior, resulting in perfectly cooked shrimp every time. This quick cooking method preserves the natural sweetness of the shrimp while infusing them with savory seasonings for a versatile dish that works as an appetizer, main course, or addition to countless recipes.

I discovered this cooking technique during a particularly hectic week when I needed something impressive yet quick for unexpected dinner guests. The shrimp turned out so juicy and flavorful that they disappeared within minutes. My sister immediately asked for the recipe, amazed that such perfectly cooked shrimp could come from an air fryer rather than a traditional stovetop method.

Essential Ingredients

  • Large shrimp: Provide the foundation with their naturally sweet flavor and quick cooking time
  • Avocado oil: Has a high smoke point making it ideal for air frying at higher temperatures
  • Paprika: Adds beautiful color and subtle smoky flavor that enhances the shrimp
  • Garlic powder: Infuses each piece with aromatic flavor without the risk of burning
  • Sea salt: Enhances the natural sweetness and brings out all the other flavors
  • Black pepper: Contributes gentle heat and complexity that balances the sweetness
  • Fresh lemon wedges: Add brightness and acidity that perfectly complements seafood
  • Chopped parsley: Provides fresh color contrast and a subtle herbal note

Cooking Instructions

Shrimp Preparation:
Ensure shrimp are completely thawed if using frozen. Pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Seasoning Application:
Combine avocado oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Pour the mixture over the shrimp and toss to coat. Let rest for 10 minutes.
Air Frying Method:
Preheat air fryer to 400°F. Arrange shrimp in a single layer in the basket. Cook for 3 minutes, shake basket, then cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until opaque and slightly crispy.
Doneness Assessment:
Shrimp should be pink, firm, and slightly curled when fully cooked. Avoid overcooking to maintain tenderness.
Serving Presentation:
Transfer shrimp to a serving platter and garnish with parsley and lemon wedges. Serve immediately.
Yummy and Easy Air Fryer Shrimp Pin it
Yummy and Easy Air Fryer Shrimp | tastelikemagic.com

My family particularly enjoys these air fryer shrimp served over creamy polenta with roasted cherry tomatoes for a quick yet impressive weeknight dinner. My husband prefers them tucked into warm tortillas with avocado and cilantro for quick shrimp tacos.

Perfect Pairings

Serve shrimp atop creamy risotto with fresh asparagus or arrange them on a platter with dipping sauces like cocktail sauce, garlic aioli, or cilantro lime sauce for an easy appetizer.

Flavor Variations

Cajun shrimp replaces the seasoning blend with Cajun seasoning and brown sugar. Mediterranean shrimp uses oregano, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes. Asian shrimp is coated in soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic.

Storage Information

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently in the air fryer at 350°F for 2 minutes to restore texture.

Delicious and Easy Air Fryer Shrimp Pin it
Delicious and Easy Air Fryer Shrimp | tastelikemagic.com

After experimenting with numerous shrimp cooking methods, this air fryer technique remains my favorite. It delivers juicy shrimp with minimal effort, making it my go-to recommendation for busy home cooks.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to completely thaw them before seasoning and cooking to ensure even cooking and better flavor absorption.
→ How do I know when the shrimp are done cooking?
Shrimp are done when they turn pink and slightly curled. They typically need only 5-6 minutes in the air fryer at 400°F.
→ What can I serve with air fryer shrimp?
These shrimp pair well with rice, pasta, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. They also make a great appetizer served with cocktail sauce.
→ Can I use different seasonings for this recipe?
Absolutely! Try adding cajun seasoning, Italian herbs, or a touch of cayenne pepper for heat. You can easily customize the flavor profile.
→ How long can I store leftover air fryer shrimp?
Store cooled shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently in the air fryer at 300°F for just a few minutes.

Easy Air Fryer Shrimp Recipe

This easy air fryer shrimp recipe delivers perfectly cooked, juicy shrimp with a flavorful seasoning of garlic, paprika, and herbs in just minutes.

Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
6 Minutes
Total Time
21 Minutes
By: Marry

Category: Seafood Dishes

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yield: 4 Servings

Dietary: Low-Carb, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Ingredients

01 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
02 2 tablespoons avocado oil
03 ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
04 1 teaspoon paprika
05 ½ teaspoon salt
06 ¼ teaspoon black pepper
07 Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
08 Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 01

In a good-sized bowl, stir together the avocado oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined. This creates a flavorful coating for the shrimp.

Step 02

Add your peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl with the seasoning mixture. Gently toss them around until every shrimp is evenly coated. Let them hang out in the marinade for about 10 minutes to soak up all those flavors.

Step 03

While the shrimp are marinating, get your air fryer hot by preheating it to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.

Step 04

Once your air fryer is hot and ready, arrange the seasoned shrimp in a single layer in the basket. Don't pile them on top of each other - they need space to get crispy!

Step 05

Pop the shrimp in the air fryer for 5-6 minutes total. About halfway through, give the basket a good shake to flip them around for even cooking. They're done when they turn a pretty pink color and look opaque.

Step 06

Transfer your hot, perfectly cooked shrimp to a serving plate. Squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the top if you like, and sprinkle with chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

Notes

  1. Make sure frozen shrimp are completely thawed before seasoning and cooking for even results.
  2. Shrimp are done when they turn pink and slightly curled - be careful not to overcook or they'll become tough and rubbery.
  3. Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste preference.
  4. While this recipe uses avocado oil, you can substitute coconut oil or even melted butter depending on your preference.
  5. To prevent sticking, make sure the shrimp are well coated with oil and consider using a non-stick spray on the basket.
  6. If you don't have an air fryer, you can bake these shrimp in an oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 8-10 minutes.

Tools You'll Need

  • Air fryer
  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring spoons

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains shellfish (shrimp)

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 145
  • Total Fat: 8 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 2 g
  • Protein: 16 g