Air-Fryer Shrimp: Can You Skip The Pre-Cook?

Shrimp is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads to pastas and appetizers. It is also a good source of protein, omegas 3s, and nutrients. While shrimp can be cooked in a skillet or baked, using an air fryer yields crisp and tender pieces in a short amount of time. The air fryer is also a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods as it requires less oil. So, can you cook raw shrimp in an air fryer? The answer is yes! Simply season the shrimp with your choice of spices and oil, place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket, and cook at 400°F for 5 to 10 minutes, depending on the size of the shrimp.

Using frozen shrimp

Frozen shrimp can be cooked in an air fryer without the need to thaw them first. The cooking time will depend on the size of the shrimp and whether they are raw or pre-cooked.

If you are using frozen raw shrimp, it is recommended to cook them at 400°F for 8 to 10 minutes. You can also cook them at 350°F for 6 to 7 minutes, turning them halfway through. It is important to ensure that the shrimp are cooked thoroughly. They should be pink or orange on the outside and opaque all the way through. To check if they are done, cut into one of the shrimp or use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 145°F.

Before cooking, you can season the shrimp with your choice of spices. Some popular options include garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper. You can also add lemon juice, butter, or olive oil for extra flavor. It is recommended to mix the shrimp with the seasonings in a bowl before placing them in the air fryer basket.

When cooking frozen shrimp in an air fryer, it is best to arrange them in a single layer and shake or flip the basket halfway through the cooking time. This helps ensure even cooking. If you are using a bag of frozen shrimp, make sure to check the label as they may be sold as frozen cooked shrimp, which requires less cooking time.

Thawing frozen shrimp

While it is possible to cook frozen shrimp in an air fryer without thawing them, some people prefer to defrost their shrimp before cooking. If you are in a hurry, you can cook the shrimp straight from frozen, but if you have the time, it is recommended to thaw them first.

To thaw frozen shrimp, remove them from the freezer and place them in the refrigerator overnight. If you don't have time for this method, you can put the shrimp in a large bowl and cover them with cold water. Place a plate over the shrimp to keep them submerged, and they will thaw in about 20 minutes.

Once the shrimp are thawed, it is important to pat them dry with a paper towel before adding any spices or seasonings. This will help the oil and seasoning stick better to the shrimp and ensure that they cook evenly.

If you are in a hurry, you can cook frozen shrimp in an air fryer without thawing them first. Simply preheat your air fryer, place the frozen shrimp inside, and cook for a few minutes. The exact cooking time will depend on the size of the shrimp and the brand of the air fryer, but it is usually between 5 and 10 minutes.

Spices and seasonings

A simple and classic spice combination includes garlic powder, sweet paprika, dried parsley, and salt. You can mix these spices with olive oil, ensuring the shrimp are well-coated before placing them in the air fryer. For a more complex flavour profile, you can add additional spices such as onion powder, dried oregano, dried thyme, and pepper to the mix. This blend of spices offers a delightful balance of savoury, spicy, and smoky flavours that complement the shrimp perfectly.

If you're feeling adventurous, you can experiment with Cajun-inspired seasonings. Cajun seasoning typically includes a mix of spices like garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. This combination adds a delightful kick of spice and smokiness to the shrimp. For those who prefer a milder flavour, sweet paprika can be used instead of smoked paprika.

Another option is to go for Latin-inspired flavours by using chili powder and cumin as your main spices. This combination adds a nice touch of heat and earthiness to the shrimp. You can also include other Latin American spices such as coriander, oregano, and cumin to create a more complex and vibrant flavour profile.

When it comes to seasonings, lemon pepper is a refreshing option that adds a tangy twist to the shrimp. Old Bay seasoning is also a popular choice, offering a unique blend of spices that enhances the natural flavour of the shrimp. For a bolder flavour, you can try Italian seasoning, which typically includes a mix of herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme.

Cooking time and temperature

The cooking time and temperature for raw shrimp in an air fryer depend on several factors, including the size of the shrimp, the brand and style of the air fryer, and personal preference for the texture and doneness of the shrimp.

For small shrimp, the cooking time is generally around 5 to 7 minutes. Medium shrimp will take slightly longer, around 7 to 9 minutes. Jumbo shrimp, being larger, require an additional minute or two, with a cooking time of about 9 to 11 minutes. It's important to note that these are general guidelines, and the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the specific air fryer and the desired doneness of the shrimp.

When cooking raw shrimp in an air fryer, it is recommended to preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). The shrimp should be arranged in a single layer in the air fryer basket, with a little space between each shrimp to allow for even cooking. Depending on the size of the air fryer basket, you may need to cook the shrimp in batches.

During the cooking process, it is a good idea to shake or flip the shrimp halfway through to ensure even cooking and browning. The shrimp are done when they turn pink, forming a 'C' shape, and are still slightly opaque. Overcooking the shrimp should be avoided, as it can make them tough and dry.

Additionally, the cooking time may vary if the shrimp are frozen. While it is recommended to thaw frozen shrimp before air frying, it is possible to cook them from frozen, which may take an additional 2 to 3 minutes. Precooked frozen shrimp, on the other hand, will take significantly less time, as you are essentially just reheating them.

Reheating and storing shrimp

Shrimp is a versatile ingredient that can be enjoyed in many ways, but it can be tricky to reheat. When reheating shrimp, it's important to remember that intense heat may cause it to overcook and become rubbery. To avoid this, always use gentle heat when reheating.

If you're reheating shrimp in an air fryer, it's best to follow these steps:

• Thaw the shrimp if it's frozen.
• Place the shrimp on a baking sheet or directly in the air fryer basket.
• Reheat until crispy.

You can also reheat shrimp in the oven. Here's how:

• Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Place the shrimp on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Reheat for five to seven minutes or until they're fully warmed.

When storing shrimp, it's important to place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days. If you want to store it for longer, you can freeze it for up to two months.

It's worth noting that some people enjoy eating leftover shrimp cold, especially in dishes like shrimp cocktails or salads. However, if you prefer your shrimp warm, reheating it can bring back those delicious flavors.

Frequently asked questions