Air Fryer Shrimp Recipe

Learn how to make the best homemade air fryer shrimp that's crispy outside and tender inside in just minutes! This easy baking recipe uses minimal oil for a healthier alternative to deep-fried shrimp. Perfect for quick appetizers or adding to salads and pasta – you won't believe how simple it is to achieve restaurant-quality results!

Difficulty:

Beginner

Prep Time:

10 mins

Cook Time:

8 mins

Serves:

4 servings

Ingredients

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"><li class="ingredients-single-item">450g large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">15ml olive oil</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">5g garlic powder</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">3g paprika</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">2g dried oregano</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">2g onion powder</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1g cayenne pepper (optional)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">15ml fresh lemon juice</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">Lemon wedges, for serving</li></ul>

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🍽️ Serving Size: 1 serving

🔥 Calories: 165 calories

🥑 Fat: 6 g

🧈 Saturated Fat: 1 g

🍞 Carbohydrates: 5 g

🍭 Sugar: 0 g

🍗 Protein: 24 g

🫀 Cholesterol: 180 mg

🧂 Sodium: 420 mg

Equipment

<ul class="equipment-main-list"><li class="equipment-single-item">Air fryer</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Medium mixing bowl</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Paper towels</li></ul>

Directions

<ol class="no-list-style"><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4>Pat the shrimp completely dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture is crucial for achieving a crispy exterior in the air fryer rather than a steamed result.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4>In a medium bowl, combine the dried shrimp, olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, dried oregano, onion powder, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper. Toss gently until each shrimp is evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4>Preheat your air fryer to 180°C for 3 minutes. Preheating creates an immediate sear when the shrimp are added, helping to lock in moisture.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4>Arrange the seasoned shrimp in a single layer in your air fryer basket, making sure they aren't overcrowded. Depending on your air fryer's size, you may need to cook in batches. Proper spacing allows hot air to circulate around each shrimp, ensuring even cooking and crispiness.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4>Cook the shrimp at 180°C for 4 minutes, then flip them over and continue cooking for another 2-4 minutes until they turn pink and opaque with slightly crisp edges. Shrimp cook quickly, so keep a close eye on them to prevent overcooking, which can make them tough and rubbery.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4>Once cooked, immediately transfer the shrimp to a serving dish and drizzle with fresh lemon juice while still hot. The acid from the lemon brightens the flavor and cuts through the richness of the seasonings.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4>Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with extra lemon wedges on the side. Enjoy while hot and crispy for the best texture contrast between the crunchy exterior and juicy interior.</li></ol>

FAQs

Find answers to your most pressing questions about this delicious recipe right here.

What ingredients are used in Air Fryer Shrimp Recipe?

This recipe uses large raw shrimp, olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, dried oregano, onion powder, optional cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, fresh lemon juice, and parsley for garnish. These ingredients create a flavourful coating that crisps perfectly in the air fryer.

How to cook Air Fryer Shrimp Recipe at home?

Learn how to cook Air Fryer Shrimp by first patting shrimp dry, then coating them in olive oil and seasonings. Preheat your air fryer to 180°C, arrange shrimp in a single layer, and cook for 4 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice and fresh parsley for a quick, crispy seafood dish that's healthier than deep-fried alternatives.

What's the ideal cooking time for crispy shrimp in an air fryer?

The ideal cooking time for crispy shrimp in an air fryer is approximately 6-8 minutes total at 180°C. Cook for 4 minutes, flip, then cook for another 2-4 minutes until pink and opaque. Cooking times may vary slightly depending on shrimp size and your specific air fryer model.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this air fryer recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but they must be completely thawed and patted dry before seasoning. Excess moisture will create steam rather than the desired crispy texture. For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator or under cold running water if you're short on time.

What dipping sauces pair well with air-fried seafood?

Excellent dipping sauces for air-fried seafood include classic cocktail sauce, garlic aioli, spicy remoulade, sweet chilli sauce, lemon-dill yoghurt dip, or sriracha mayo. These complementary flavours enhance the crispy, seasoned exterior while highlighting the natural sweetness of the shrimp.

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