Name: Air Fryer Shrimp
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 18 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper, to taste; Lemon wedges, for serving; Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Crispy, flavorful, and incredibly quick to make, this Air Fryer Shrimp recipe is a lifesaver on busy weeknights. With just a few pantry spices and a handful of fresh ingredients, I can whip up a batch of perfectly cooked shrimp in under 20 minutes. Whether I’m serving it as an appetizer, tossing it into a salad, or enjoying it over rice, this dish always hits the spot.

Air Fryer Shrimp

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon paprika

½ teaspoon onion powder

Salt and pepper, to taste

Lemon wedges, for serving

Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Directions

I preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

In a bowl, I toss the shrimp with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well coated.

I place the shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket.

I cook the shrimp at 400°F for 6–8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until they’re golden and fully cooked.

I serve them hot with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh parsley if I want to add a bit of color and flavor.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 8 minutes

Total Time: 18 minutes

Calories: 180 kcal per serving

Variations

I sometimes add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

When I want a tropical twist, I toss the cooked shrimp with a little lime juice and chopped cilantro.

For a garlic lover’s version, I double the garlic powder or even add a bit of fresh minced garlic.

I make it Cajun-style by replacing the spices with a tablespoon of Cajun seasoning.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I place them back in the air fryer at 350°F for 2–3 minutes, just until warmed through. I avoid microwaving, as it can make them rubbery.

FAQs

How do I know when the shrimp are fully cooked?

The shrimp should be opaque and pink with a slight curl. I make sure they’re firm to the touch but not rubbery.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, I can use frozen shrimp, but I always thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning and air frying.

Do I need to preheat the air fryer?

Preheating helps the shrimp cook evenly and become crispier, so I always do it for best results.

Can I make this recipe without oil?

Yes, I can skip the oil, but it helps the spices stick better and adds a bit of crispiness to the shrimp.

What should I serve with air fryer shrimp?

I like serving them with rice, quinoa, in tacos, over salad, or as part of a seafood platter with dipping sauces.

Conclusion

This air fryer shrimp recipe is one I keep coming back to for its simplicity, flavor, and versatility. Whether I’m feeding the family or entertaining guests, it’s a dependable go-to that tastes amazing every time. Ready in under 20 minutes, it fits perfectly into any schedule and satisfies every craving.

Recipe:

Air Fryer Shrimp

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 18 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

Crispy, flavorful, and quick, this air fryer shrimp recipe delivers perfectly cooked shrimp in under 20 minutes. Great as an appetizer, salad topping, or main dish.