Air Fryer Shrimp Recipe

Juicy, succulent shrimp with a crispy exterior cooked to perfection in minutes using an air fryer for a healthier alternative to deep-fried favorites.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
8 mins
Serves:
4 servings
An overhead shot of golden-brown air fryer shrimp arranged on a white ceramic platter, their curved bodies creating an appealing pattern against the stark background. The close-up reveals a crispy, textured exterior with visible herbs and spices clinging to each piece. A small ramekin of bright red cocktail sauce sits at the corner, while lemon wedges add vibrant yellow accents throughout the composition. Soft natural light streams in from the side, highlighting the succulent texture of the seafood. A sprinkling of freshly chopped parsley adds pops of green, while a wooden serving fork rests nearby, suggesting the casual, finger-food appeal of this quick-cooked delicacy.

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>

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>
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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>

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

Chef’s Notes

A few helpful details for making this recipe.

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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