Crispy Air Fryer Shrimp (Quick & Easy)

Let’s talk shrimp — but not just any shrimp. I’m talking about the kind that’s golden, crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and ready in under 15 minutes. No deep frying, no greasy mess — just your trusty air fryer doing its magic. If you love seafood and quick meals that taste like something you’d order at a beachside restaurant, this air fryer shrimp recipe is about to be your new best friend.

I still remember the first time I tried shrimp in the air fryer. I was skeptical (like, how good could it really be?), but the moment I popped one in my mouth, I was hooked. It had that perfect crunch without being dry or rubbery — something that can happen way too easily with shrimp. Plus, it didn’t leave my kitchen smelling like a fried food truck for hours. Win-win.

What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can season the shrimp however you like — spicy Cajun, garlic parmesan, lemon pepper, you name it — and use them in everything from tacos to rice bowls to simple salads. It’s the kind of recipe that feels fancy but is secretly one of the easiest meals to throw together on a busy night.

So, whether you’re looking for a quick dinner idea, a fun appetizer for game night, or just a new way to enjoy shrimp without the extra oil, you’re going to want to save this one. Trust me, once you try air fryer shrimp, it’s hard to go back.

---

Why You’ll Love It

• Quick & Easy: From prep to plate in under 15 minutes — perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
• Healthier Option: You get that crispy texture without deep frying or using loads of oil.
• Super Versatile: Serve it as an appetizer, over salads, in tacos, or with pasta — the possibilities are endless.
• Customizable Flavors: Easily switch up the seasoning to match your cravings or meal theme.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a get-together, these shrimp always disappear fast!

Ingredient List

For the Shrimp

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For Serving (Optional)

• Fresh lemon wedges
• Chopped parsley
• Dipping sauce (cocktail, spicy mayo, or garlic butter)

Ingredient Notes

• Shrimp: I usually go for large or jumbo shrimp (around 21–25 per pound) — they cook evenly and stay juicy.
• Olive oil: Just a little helps the seasoning stick and gives a light crisp without making them greasy.
• Paprika: Smoked paprika adds a warm, bold flavor — use regular if that’s what you have.
• Cayenne pepper: Totally optional, but it adds a nice kick if you like some heat.
• Lemon juice: Don’t skip this! It brightens everything up and makes the shrimp taste super fresh.
• Parsley & lemon wedges: Optional, but they make it look and taste restaurant-worthy.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Air Fryer – I use a 5.8-quart basket-style air fryer; it fits a full pound of shrimp perfectly.
• Mixing Bowl – For tossing the shrimp with oil and seasonings.
• Tongs – Helps flip or shake the shrimp halfway through cooking without burning your fingers.
• Measuring Spoons – To get your seasonings just right.
• Paper Towels – To pat the shrimp dry before seasoning (helps them crisp up better).
• Serving Plate or Tray – For plating your beautiful, golden shrimp. I love using a wooden board for that restaurant-style vibe.

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Shrimp

• Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them completely dry with paper towels.
• Make sure they’re peeled and deveined (tails can be left on for presentation or removed if preferred).

Pro Tip:
Dry shrimp = crispy shrimp. Any excess moisture will steam them instead of crisping them up.

Step 2: Season the Shrimp

• In a large mixing bowl, add the shrimp.
• Drizzle the olive oil over them and toss gently to coat.
• Sprinkle in the garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using).
• Add the lemon juice last and toss everything together until the shrimp are evenly coated.

Pro Tip:
Use your hands or tongs to really mix the seasoning into every nook and cranny for bold flavor in every bite.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

• Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes.

Pro Tip:
Preheating helps the shrimp start crisping up right away instead of slowly warming up.

Step 4: Arrange the Shrimp

• Place the shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
• Make sure they aren’t overlapping — you may need to cook in two batches depending on the size of your air fryer.

Pro Tip:
No overcrowding! Proper airflow is what gives them that golden, crispy finish.

Step 5: Cook the Shrimp

• Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 6–8 minutes total.
• Shake the basket or flip the shrimp halfway through (around the 3–4 minute mark).

Pro Tip:
Shrimp cook quickly! They’re done as soon as they turn pink and opaque with curled edges. Overcooking will make them rubbery.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

• Remove shrimp from the air fryer and transfer to a serving plate.
• Garnish with chopped parsley and fresh lemon wedges, if desired.
• Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, toss into a salad, or tuck into tacos!

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Pat the shrimp dry before seasoning — this helps them crisp up better in the air fryer.
• Don’t skip preheating your air fryer — it makes a big difference in texture and cooking time.
• Cook in batches if needed — overcrowding the basket will steam the shrimp instead of crisping them.
• Keep an eye on the time — shrimp cook fast, and just an extra minute or two can make them tough.
• Toss halfway through cooking so they cook evenly on both sides.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

• Olive oil – Swap with avocado oil or melted butter for a slightly different flavor.
• Seasonings – Use Cajun, Old Bay, taco seasoning, or lemon pepper blends for a quick twist.
• Paprika – Smoked paprika adds depth, but sweet paprika works fine too.
• Spicy version – Add more cayenne or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
• Garlic butter shrimp – Toss the cooked shrimp in melted garlic butter right before serving for a rich, restaurant-style version.
• Breaded option – Lightly coat shrimp in seasoned panko for a crunchy breaded style (spray with oil before air frying).

Serving Suggestions

• Taco Night Favorite: Tuck the shrimp into warm tortillas with slaw, avocado, and a drizzle of spicy mayo.
• Quick Protein Boost: I love adding these to a fresh green salad with cherry tomatoes and a zesty vinaigrette — it’s light but filling.
• Rice Bowl Ready: Serve over jasmine or coconut rice with sautéed veggies and a squeeze of lime for a complete meal.
• Appetizer Platter: Pair with cocktail sauce or garlic aioli for an easy party platter everyone will love.
• Pasta Upgrade: Toss into creamy pasta or a lemony garlic butter noodle dish — simple and so satisfying.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Storage: Let shrimp cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Not ideal, as the texture may change after thawing, but you can freeze them if needed for up to 2 months.
• Reheating (Air Fryer): Reheat at 350°F for 2–3 minutes until warmed through — this keeps them crisp.
• Reheating (Microwave): Use short 30-second bursts to avoid overcooking, but note they may turn slightly rubbery.
• Avoid sogginess: Reheating in a skillet or air fryer is best if you want to preserve their crispy edges.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning. Too much moisture = soggy shrimp.

How do I know when the shrimp are done?

They’ll be pink, opaque, and curled into a “C” shape. Overcooked shrimp curl into a tight “O” and feel rubbery — avoid that!

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, but they’re best served fresh. You can prep the shrimp and seasoning earlier, then air fry right before eating.

What dipping sauces go well with air fryer shrimp?

Try garlic aioli, spicy mayo, cocktail sauce, or even ranch. I love serving mine with a lemon garlic butter dip!

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely — just cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Crispiness depends on airflow!

What if I don’t have an air fryer?

You can bake them in the oven at 425°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway. They won’t be quite as crisp, but still delicious.

---

Did you try this recipe? Let me know in the comments how it turned out!

Don’t forget to share your photos on Instagram and tag me @tasiahub_ or use the hashtag #tasiahub. I’d love to see your creations!