Air Fryer Shrimp: Quick, Crispy, And Delicious

Air fryer shrimp is a quick, easy, and healthy dish that can be made in a variety of ways. It is a versatile dish that can be served as an appetizer, main course, or added to other meals like tacos, salads, bowls, or pasta. The best part about cooking shrimp in an air fryer is that it requires minimal preparation and cooking time, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights.

How to season shrimp for the air fryer

Seasoning shrimp for the air fryer is a simple process that can be done in a few different ways, depending on your taste preferences. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to season shrimp for the air fryer:

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Start by cleaning and drying the shrimp. Remove the shells and veins, and use paper towels to pat them dry. This step is important as it helps the oil and seasonings stick to the shrimp better.

Step 2: Choose Your Seasonings

There are many different seasoning options that you can use to flavour your shrimp. You can go simple with just a squeeze of lemon juice and some olive oil, or you can experiment with a variety of spices. Some popular spice options include:

• Garlic powder
• Smoked paprika
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper
• Cayenne pepper
• Cajun seasoning
• Allspice
• Lemon pepper
• Nutmeg
• Cardamom

Feel free to get creative and mix and match spices to create your own unique blend. You can also use store-bought seasoning mixes like Old Bay or Tajin.

Step 3: Make the Seasoning Blend

In a separate bowl, mix your chosen spices together. Then, add oil to the mixture and combine well. You can use olive oil or another type of oil such as grapeseed oil or avocado oil. The amount of oil may vary depending on your preference and the number of shrimp you are preparing.

Step 4: Coat the Shrimp

Now it's time to coat the shrimp with your delicious seasoning blend. Place the cleaned and dried shrimp in a bowl and pour the seasoning blend over them. Toss or mix until the shrimp are completely coated. Alternatively, you can rub or brush the seasoning onto each shrimp individually. Make sure to coat both sides of the shrimp.

Step 5: Arrange in the Air Fryer Basket

Place the seasoned shrimp into the air fryer basket in a single layer. Be careful not to crowd the basket, as this can affect how evenly the shrimp cook. If you have a lot of shrimp, you may need to work in batches.

And that's it! You're now ready to air fry your delicious, seasoned shrimp. Follow the cooking instructions provided by your air fryer, and enjoy your perfectly seasoned shrimp.

How to prepare shrimp for the air fryer

Preparing shrimp for the air fryer is simple and can be done in a few easy steps.

Firstly, you'll want to clean the shrimp. Remove any shells and veins, and if your shrimp is frozen, make sure to let it thaw completely and pat it dry with a paper towel. This will help the oil and seasonings stick to the shrimp during cooking.

Next, you'll make your shrimp seasoning blend. Mix your chosen spices with oil in a separate bowl. You can use a variety of seasonings, such as garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, cayenne pepper, Cajun seasoning, or lemon juice. Get creative and experiment with different flavors!

Now, it's time to coat the shrimp with the seasoning. Place the cleaned shrimp in a bowl and pour the seasoning blend over it, tossing or mixing to ensure an even coat. You can also rub or brush the seasoning onto each shrimp individually.

Once your shrimp are seasoned, it's time to arrange them in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are in a single layer and not overcrowded, as this will affect cooking time and evenness. If you have a lot of shrimp, you may need to cook them in batches.

And that's it! You're now ready to air fry your shrimp until they are cooked to perfection. Depending on the size of your shrimp and your air fryer, this should take around 6-8 minutes at a temperature of around 400°F.

With these simple steps, you'll have perfectly prepared shrimp that are ready for the air fryer and will turn out juicy and tender every time.

How long to cook shrimp in the air fryer

The cooking time for shrimp in an air fryer depends on the size of the shrimp, the brand of the air fryer, and whether the shrimp are frozen or fresh.

For jumbo shrimp, it is recommended to air fry at 400°F for five to six minutes, shaking the basket halfway. Smaller shrimp will cook faster, so you may want to check on them after four minutes. If you are using a Phillips air fryer, which has a large basket, the shrimp may be ready in seven minutes.

If you are cooking frozen shrimp, you will need to add a few minutes to the cooking time. One source suggests cooking frozen shrimp in the air fryer at 400°F for eight minutes. However, it is important to note that the breading may not stick as well to frozen shrimp.

What to serve with air fryer shrimp

Now that you've made your air fryer shrimp, it's time to think about what to serve it with. Here are some ideas:

Tacos

Wrap your air fryer shrimp in corn tortillas and top with cilantro and a creamy lime sauce. You could also add Latin spices such as chili powder and cumin, or go low-carb and use lettuce wraps instead of tortillas.

Bowls

Fill a bowl with quinoa or rice, add your favourite veggies, and drizzle with fresh lemon juice.

Salads

Add some extra protein to your salad by topping it with air-fried shrimp.

Main Dish

Serve your shrimp with roasted broccoli rabe, butternut squash, carrots, or any other side.

Tostadas

Layer a tostada shell with refried beans, guacamole, salsa, and shrimp.

Sandwich

Place the shrimp between two slices of bread with butter lettuce and tartar sauce.

Sides

Air fryer shrimp pairs well with potatoes, roasted veggies, or mac and cheese.

How to store leftover air fryer shrimp

Storing your leftover air fryer shrimp correctly is essential to ensure it stays fresh and safe to eat. Here is a detailed guide on how to do this:

Firstly, allow the shrimp to cool completely. It is important not to seal the shrimp in a container while it is still hot, as this can promote bacterial growth. Once the shrimp has cooled to room temperature, you can begin preparing them for storage.

If you intend to eat the shrimp within three to four days, place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. Make sure the container is sealed properly to prevent any air from getting in, which could dry out the shrimp or cause spoilage. You can also wrap the shrimp tightly in aluminium foil or plastic wrap before placing them in the refrigerator.

If you don't plan on eating the shrimp within a few days, freezing is a great option. Place the shrimp in a freezer-safe bag or container and store them in the freezer for up to two to three months. This will ensure the shrimp stays fresh for a more extended period.

When you are ready to enjoy your leftover shrimp, there are a few ways to reheat them. You can use the air fryer again, setting it to a lower temperature to avoid overcooking the shrimp. Alternatively, you can place them on a baking sheet in the oven or use the microwave for a quicker option.

It is important to note that shrimp should not be left at room temperature for more than two hours. If the shrimp has been at room temperature for an extended period, it is best to discard it rather than risk foodborne illness.

Frequently asked questions