Crispy Air Fryer Shrimp

This Air Fryer Shrimp recipe is perfect for when you want a quick and tasty seafood dish without the hassle of frying. The shrimp come out juicy on the inside with a light and crispy exterior, making them ideal for a main course, appetizer, or snack. Whether you’re feeding the family on a busy weeknight or hosting friends, this recipe delivers bold flavor with minimal effort.

I first made this recipe when I realized how much easier the air fryer made cooking shrimp, and now it’s a household favorite. The balance of spices and the quick cooking time has everyone asking for it repeatedly.

Ingredients

• Large shrimp: Large shrimp peeled and deveined with tails on or off for easy cooking and eating
• Olive oil or avocado oil: For coating that crisp exterior while keeping it healthy
• Garlic powder: Adds a warm, savory note
• Smoked paprika: Brings a subtle depth and smoky flavor, try to find the Spanish variety if you can
• Onion powder: Enhances the overall seasoning blend
• Salt: Balanced for flavor enhancement
• Black pepper: Adds just the right amount of kick
• Red pepper flakes: Optional but perfect if you like a touch of heat
• Fresh lemon juice: At the end brightens and lifts all the flavors

Instructions

Prep the Shrimp:

Pat the shrimp dry carefully using paper towels. This step is crucial for getting a crispy finish because moisture will steam the shrimp instead of crisping them. Place them in a mixing bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes evenly over the shrimp. Toss with tongs until they are fully coated.

Preheat the Air Fryer:

Set your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit or 200 degrees Celsius. Let it heat for about three minutes. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray if you want to ensure the shrimp don’t stick during cooking.

Air Fry the Shrimp:

Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding so that hot air circulates well and cooks the shrimp evenly. Cook for six to eight minutes total, shaking the basket or flipping the shrimp halfway through. You will know they are done when they turn pink, curl up neatly, and develop slightly crisp, golden edges. Remove the shrimp from the basket and immediately squeeze fresh lemon juice over them for a bright finish.

Make the Dipping Sauce (Optional):

In a small bowl whisk together Greek yogurt or mayo, ketchup, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, lemon juice, and a pinch of paprika. Chill the sauce until ready to serve. This sauce adds a creamy, tangy element that pairs wonderfully with the spiced shrimp.

Serve and Enjoy:

Serve the shrimp hot with the dipping sauce or use them in tacos, salads, rice bowls, or pasta dishes. Garnish with chopped parsley, sliced green onion, or extra lemon wedges to enhance both the flavor and presentation.

My favorite ingredient is smoked paprika since it adds such a rich, smoky flavor without overwhelming the shrimp. I remember one family gathering where everyone went back for seconds and thirds, praising how crispy and flavorful these shrimp were straight from the air fryer. It’s always a hit at parties.

Storage Tips

Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within two days. Because of their delicate texture, these shrimp do not freeze well and tend to become rubbery after defrosting. To reheat, use the air fryer at a lower temperature to maintain crispness instead of microwaving, which can soften them too much.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika with a touch of ground cumin can add a subtle warmth. Olive oil can be swapped for avocado oil or any neutral oil with a high smoke point. Fresh lemon juice is ideal but can be replaced with a splash of white wine vinegar for a similar brightness in a pinch.

Serving Suggestions

Serve over warm seasoned rice and grilled vegetables for a balanced meal. Use these shrimp as a protein packed topping for tacos with fresh slaw and lime crema or toss into fresh pasta with a garlic butter or Alfredo sauce. They also make a great addition to a crisp Caesar or Greek salad or simply dipped with the sauce for a casual appetizer.

These air fryer shrimp are quick, flavorful, and perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining. Serve immediately after a squeeze of lemon for the best texture and brightness.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can frozen shrimp be used?

Yes, thaw completely and pat dry to ensure proper seasoning and crispiness.

→ What shrimp size is ideal for air frying?

Large (26–30 count) or jumbo (21–25 count) shrimp work best for even cooking and juicy texture.

→ Can pre-cooked shrimp be air fried?

Yes, but reduce cooking time to 3–4 minutes to avoid overcooking.

→ Is this cooking method gluten-free?

Yes, as long as all seasonings and sauces used are gluten-free.

→ How can I achieve a crispy finish?

Ensure shrimp are well dried before coating, avoid overcrowding in the fryer basket, and cook in a single layer.