This air fryer shrimp recipe delivers perfectly crispy and juicy shrimp in a fraction of the time compared to traditional frying methods. With minimal oil, it’s a healthier option that retains all the flavor.
The recipe is simple and quick, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or as a tasty appetizer for gatherings.
Preparation of Shrimp
Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water to ensure they are clean. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve that desired crispy texture.
Choosing the right shrimp is key. Opt for large, peeled, and deveined shrimp for the best results. Freshness is important, so look for shrimp that have a mild scent and a firm texture.
Creating the Perfect Coating
The coating is what gives the shrimp its crunch. Combine breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper in a bowl. This blend adds a delightful flavor profile.
For a lighter option, consider using panko breadcrumbs. They provide an extra crunch that enhances the overall texture of the dish.
Coating the Shrimp
Dip each shrimp into beaten eggs before rolling them in the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure to press gently to ensure the coating adheres well. This step is essential for achieving that crispy exterior.
Arranging the shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket is crucial. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking, so give each shrimp enough space to crisp up beautifully.
Cooking in the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about five minutes. This ensures that the shrimp start cooking immediately, locking in moisture while creating a golden crust.
Cook the shrimp for 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even browning. The result should be perfectly cooked shrimp that are golden brown and juicy.
Serving Suggestions
Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the air fryer and serve them immediately. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Pair the shrimp with a small bowl of tangy cocktail sauce and lemon wedges. The acidity of the lemon enhances the shrimp’s flavor, making each bite refreshing.
Enjoying Your Dish
This crispy air fryer shrimp makes for a fantastic main dish or a delightful appetizer for gatherings. Its quick preparation time makes it perfect for weeknight dinners.
With a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor, this dish is sure to impress anyone at your table. Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of this air fryer recipe!
Easy Air Fryer Shrimp Recipe
This dish features shrimp marinated in a blend of spices and breadcrumbs, then cooked in an air fryer for a crispy texture. The recipe takes about 20 minutes from start to finish and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Cooking spray or olive oil for spraying
Instructions
- Prep the Shrimp: Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
- Make the Coating: In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- Coat the Shrimp: Dip each shrimp into the beaten eggs, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Cook the Shrimp: Arrange the coated shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Spray lightly with cooking spray or olive oil. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve: Remove the shrimp from the air fryer and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 220kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 12g