Air-Fryer Shrimp: Can You Fry Raw?

Cooking shrimp in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to prepare this seafood, which can be notoriously easy to undercook or overcook. The air fryer method is also healthier than deep frying, pan frying or baking shrimp, as it uses very little oil. You can use fresh or frozen shrimp, but they should be peeled, deveined and cleaned before cooking. You can also buy prepped shrimp to save time. The shrimp should be seasoned with spices and oil, and then cooked in the air fryer for around 5-10 minutes, depending on their size.

Seasoning options

When it comes to seasoning your shrimp, there are a plethora of options to choose from. You can go for a simple blend of spices, such as lemon juice, kosher salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning. Alternatively, you can use lemon pepper, Cajun seasoning, or Old Bay seasoning to add a fun twist to your dish. If you're feeling creative, make your own Cajun-inspired mix with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. For a milder flavour, sweet paprika can be used instead of smoked paprika.

If you're looking for a more Latin-inspired dish, season your shrimp with chili powder and cumin before wrapping them in corn tortillas and topping them with cilantro and a creamy lime sauce. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice and some fresh parsley to your cooked shrimp for a refreshing touch.

For those who enjoy shrimp tacos, it is recommended to use taco seasoning instead of seafood seasoning, along with flour or corn tortillas, shredded lettuce, black beans, pico de gallo, guacamole, and fresh cilantro. If you're serving shrimp as an appetizer, a simple dipping sauce on the side will do the trick.

Additionally, you can coat your shrimp with butter and garlic powder for a nice butter garlic sauce, or add some BBQ sauce during the last few minutes of cooking. Parmesan cheese is another tasty option to sprinkle on top or add to your marinade.

Lastly, if you're serving your shrimp with a side of noodles, consider using lemon pepper seasoning or a combination of lemon and pepper for a zesty kick.

How to prep shrimp

Preparing shrimp for the air fryer is a simple process. First, decide whether you want to use fresh or frozen shrimp. If you opt for frozen shrimp, ensure that you completely thaw it before adding any spices. You can buy fresh or frozen shrimp that is already peeled and deveined, which can save you some time. If you're using frozen shrimp, it's a good idea to air fry it for a minute at 400°F (200°C) to thaw it before adding the seasoning and oil.

Once your shrimp is ready, it's time to season it. Place the shrimp in a bowl or a freezer bag, add olive oil and your desired seasonings, and mix until the shrimp is evenly coated. You can use various seasonings like garlic powder, sweet paprika, chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, lemon juice, or Italian seasoning. You can also add some lemon pepper, Cajun seasoning, or Old Bay seasoning for a unique flavor. If you want to get creative, make your own combination of spices or use store-bought mixes like Old Bay or Tajin.

After seasoning the shrimp, it's time to cook them. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don't overlap or overcrowd. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the shrimp in batches. Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook the shrimp for 5 to 8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. If you're using pre-cooked shrimp, you'll only need to air fry them for 2 to 3 minutes.

Once the shrimp are cooked, serve them immediately. They are delicious on their own or can be used in various dishes like shrimp salads, sandwiches, bowls, or pasta. You can also serve them with different sauces, such as hot honey sauce, garlic yogurt sauce, or ketchup. Enjoy your air-fried shrimp!

Cooking time and temperature

The cooking time and temperature for raw shrimp in an air fryer depend on the size of the shrimp and the brand of the air fryer. Large or jumbo shrimp are preferable because they are juicier than smaller shrimp. However, you can use small shrimp and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Most recipes recommend preheating the air fryer to 400°F/200°C. The shrimp should be arranged in a single layer in the air fryer basket, and if you have a lot of shrimp, you may need to cook them in batches. It is also important not to overcrowd the air fryer, as this can lead to uneven cooking and prevent the shrimp from crisping up properly.

The cooking time for raw shrimp in an air fryer can range from 4 to 10 minutes at 400°F/200°C. Some recipes recommend cooking the shrimp for 5 to 6 minutes, while others suggest 7 to 8 minutes. The cooking time will depend on the size of the shrimp and the brand of the air fryer. For example, larger shrimp may take up to 8 to 9 minutes to cook thoroughly. It is important to keep an eye on the shrimp while it is cooking and check on it once or twice to ensure it is cooked to your desired level of doneness.

If you are using frozen shrimp, it is recommended to thaw them before cooking. Frozen shrimp will take longer to cook, and you may need to increase the cooking time by a few minutes. One recipe suggests cooking frozen shrimp at 400°F for 8 to 10 minutes.

What to serve with shrimp

Yes, you can cook raw shrimp in an air fryer. It is a quick and easy method to prepare a tasty meal.

When it comes to deciding what to serve with shrimp, there are numerous options to choose from. Here are some ideas for side dishes that will complement your shrimp and make a delicious and well-rounded meal:

• Salads: A fresh, crisp salad is a perfect pairing for shrimp. You can opt for a simple green salad or get creative with ingredients like cucumbers, almonds, broccoli, cauliflower, arugula, lime, and cilantro. Grilled shrimp go well with a tangy mustard vinaigrette, while a Greek-inspired pasta salad with feta and olives can be a tasty side for roasted shrimp.
• Vegetables: Roasted vegetables, such as asparagus, are an excellent choice to serve with shrimp. You can also try grilled kabobs with Thai spiced barbecue shrimp or zucchini fries for a healthier option.
• Pasta: Pasta and shrimp are a classic combination. Toss your air-fried shrimp with your favorite pasta, or try it with a pesto sauce. For a lighter option, zoodles (zucchini noodles) can be a great low-carb substitute.
• Rice: Rice is another versatile option to serve with shrimp. You can keep it simple or try something more indulgent, like a casserole with okra and corn kernels.
• Corn: Corn on the cob is a classic side dish for shrimp. For a more elegant touch, try creamed corn.
• Potatoes: Potatoes are a hearty and versatile side dish. You can grill them or try crispy potatoes with a remoulade dipping sauce.
• Coleslaw: Coleslaw is a refreshing and crunchy side dish that pairs well with shrimp. Try a traditional recipe or a unique twist like a broccoli and cauliflower slaw.
• Guacamole: For a tropical-themed meal, serve your shrimp with a sweet and tangy guacamole.
• Orzo: Orzo pasta is a great base for a shrimp dish. Try it with baby spinach and a lemony dressing for a light and refreshing meal.

These are just a few ideas to get you started. The key is to choose sides that complement the flavors and preparation of your shrimp, whether it's grilled, roasted, or air-fried.

Reheating and storing shrimp

Shrimp is a versatile ingredient that can be steamed, fried, sautéed, or baked. It can be cooked in an air fryer, skillet, or oven. However, it is highly perishable, so it needs to be handled with care and stored properly.

When storing shrimp, it is important to place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. Cooked shrimp that is wrapped or sealed tightly can last for up to three days in the refrigerator. It is also possible to freeze cooked shrimp to extend its shelf life. Place it in an airtight container or freezer bag and store it in the freezer for up to two months.

When reheating shrimp, it is recommended to use gentle heat to prevent overcooking and rubbery textures. An air fryer is a suitable option for reheating shrimp, as it uses little oil and provides even cooking. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and place the shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Reheat for 5 to 8 minutes, depending on the size of the shrimp and the brand of the air fryer. Check on the shrimp periodically to ensure they do not overcook.

Alternatively, shrimp can be reheated in an oven at 325°F for 5 to 7 minutes or in a skillet over medium-low heat for 2 to 3 minutes per side. It is also possible to reheat shrimp on a grill or by boiling. When boiling, place the shrimp in a pot of water and heat until the shrimp are warmed through.

It is important to note that shrimp should be consumed within three to four days of cooking to ensure optimal freshness and safety.

Frequently asked questions