Air Fryer Shrimp: 5 Delicious Recipes To Try

Shrimp is a versatile seafood that can be cooked in various ways, and using an air fryer is a popular and convenient method. With its ability to cook food quickly and evenly, the air fryer offers a healthier alternative to traditional deep-frying. In this guide, we'll explore the best techniques and tips for cooking shrimp in an air fryer, ensuring a delicious and crispy result every time. Whether you're looking for a simple and quick meal or a more elaborate dish, the air fryer can help you achieve restaurant-quality shrimp with minimal effort.

Air Fryer Shrimp Skewers: Thread shrimp onto skewers, brush with oil, and cook until pink and crispy

Air-frying shrimp skewers is a quick and delicious way to enjoy this seafood delicacy. Here's a step-by-step guide to achieving perfectly cooked and crispy shrimp:

Start by preparing your shrimp. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and remove any excess moisture with a paper towel. Pat them dry, ensuring they are as dry as possible, as this will help the shrimp cook evenly and prevent them from sticking together. Thread the shrimp onto skewers, leaving a small gap between each piece to allow for even cooking.

Next, prepare the marinade or coating. A simple and flavorful option is to brush the shrimp with a mixture of olive oil, garlic powder, and your choice of spices. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Alternatively, you can use a store-bought shrimp seasoning or create your own blend of herbs and spices.

Now, it's time to cook the skewers in the air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the shrimp skewers in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are in a single layer to allow hot air circulation. Cook for approximately 8-10 minutes, flipping the skewers halfway through the cooking time. The shrimp are ready when they turn opaque and pink, and the edges are slightly curled.

For an extra crispy exterior, you can lightly spray the skewers with cooking oil before placing them in the air fryer. This will help to promote a golden, crispy texture. Additionally, you can experiment with different cooking times depending on your desired level of doneness. For a more well-done texture, extend the cooking time by a few minutes.

Once cooked, remove the shrimp skewers from the air fryer and let them rest for a minute or two. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy and tender bite. Serve the shrimp skewers immediately, paired with your favorite dipping sauce or a refreshing salad. Enjoy the convenience and deliciousness of air-fried shrimp skewers!

Shrimp and Veggies: Toss shrimp with bell peppers, onions, and garlic, then air fry for a healthy meal

Shrimp and Veggies in the Air Fryer: A Healthy and Delicious Combination

When it comes to cooking shrimp in an air fryer, this method offers a quick and healthy way to prepare a delicious meal. The air fryer's ability to circulate hot air ensures that the shrimp and vegetables are cooked evenly, resulting in a crispy exterior and tender, juicy interior. Here's a simple and tasty recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined (optional)
• 2 bell peppers, sliced into thin strips (choose your favorite color)
• 1 large onion, sliced into wedges
• 4-5 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: your choice of herbs (e.g., thyme, parsley, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for spice)

Instructions:

• Start by preparing the shrimp. Rinse them under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. If you prefer, you can leave the shrimp with the shells on for a more rustic presentation.
• In a large bowl, combine the shrimp, bell peppers, onions, and garlic. Drizzle with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper. You can also add your chosen herbs for extra flavor. Toss the mixture until all the ingredients are well coated.
• Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the shrimp and veggies in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are in a single layer to allow for even cooking.
• Air fry for approximately 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your shrimp and the power of your air fryer. Aim for a golden-brown color and a slight crispiness on the shrimp.
• Once cooked, carefully transfer the shrimp and veggies to a serving dish. Let them cool slightly, then serve.

This recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a light and flavorful meal. The air fryer's rapid cooking method retains the natural sweetness of the shrimp and the crispness of the vegetables. It's a healthy alternative to deep-frying, making it a great option for those who want a crispy treat without the excess oil. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables and herbs to customize this dish to your taste.

Spicy Shrimp Bites: Marinate shrimp in a spicy sauce, then air fry for a flavorful appetizer

If you're looking for a quick and delicious appetizer that's sure to impress, Spicy Shrimp Bites are a fantastic choice. This recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly flavorful, thanks to the combination of a zesty marinade and the convenience of air frying. Here's how you can create this tasty treat:

Start by preparing the marinade. In a bowl, mix together a generous amount of your favorite hot sauce (feel free to adjust the heat level to your preference), a splash of lemon juice, a pinch of garlic powder, and a touch of salt and pepper. You can also add some chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for an extra burst of flavor. The key here is to create a flavorful base that will infuse the shrimp with a spicy kick.

Now, it's time to marinate the shrimp. Peel and devein the shrimp, leaving the tails on for a more appealing presentation. Place the shrimp in a resealable bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Ensure they are well coated. Let the shrimp sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or even better, overnight, to allow the flavors to meld. The longer they marinate, the more intense the spice will be.

When you're ready to cook, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet or air fryer basket with parchment paper. Carefully transfer the marinated shrimp to the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they have enough space to cook evenly. Spray the shrimp lightly with cooking oil to prevent them from sticking.

Air fry the shrimp for approximately 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning. The exact time may vary depending on the size of your shrimp and your air fryer, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking. The goal is to achieve a golden-brown, crispy exterior while keeping the shrimp juicy and tender inside.

Once cooked, serve these Spicy Shrimp Bites immediately. They can be enjoyed as a standalone appetizer or paired with a cool dip like guacamole or a yogurt-based sauce. These bites are sure to be a hit at your next gathering, offering a perfect blend of spice, texture, and flavor.

Shrimp Tacos: Season shrimp, air fry, and serve in warm tortillas with salsa and lime

Shrimp tacos are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that can be prepared in an air fryer, offering a quick and convenient way to enjoy this seafood delicacy. Here's a step-by-step guide to creating a tasty shrimp taco experience:

Seasoning and Preparation: Start by choosing fresh, high-quality shrimp. Rinse them thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels. Season the shrimp generously with a mixture of your favorite spices. A popular choice is a blend of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick. Alternatively, you can opt for a more traditional Mexican-style seasoning with paprika, oregano, and a touch of salt and pepper. Let the shrimp sit in the seasoning for about 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.

Air Frying: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the seasoned shrimp in a single layer on the air fryer basket or rack, ensuring they have enough space to cook evenly. Cook the shrimp for approximately 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the size of the shrimp and your air fryer, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking. Aim for a golden-brown color and a translucent appearance when the shrimp are cooked to perfection.

Assembly: While the shrimp are cooking, prepare your taco fillings. Warm some corn or flour tortillas in the same air fryer or in a skillet. You can also quickly sauté some onions and peppers to add a crisp texture to your tacos. Chop a fresh tomato and some red onion, and prepare your favorite salsa. Squeeze some lime juice over the salsa to add a bright, citrusy flavor.

Serving: Once the shrimp are ready, it's time to assemble your tacos. Place a few shrimp in each warm tortilla, adding your choice of fillings. Top with a generous spoonful of salsa, a squeeze of lime juice, and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro (if desired). You can also offer additional toppings like shredded cabbage, avocado slices, or a creamy sauce on the side.

These shrimp tacos are a fantastic way to enjoy seafood with a Mexican twist. The air fryer method ensures a quick and healthy cooking process, resulting in juicy, flavorful shrimp that will impress your guests or family. Feel free to experiment with different seasonings and fillings to create your unique taco masterpiece!

Shrimp and Rice: Cook shrimp and rice together in the air fryer for a quick and easy meal

Shrimp and rice is a delicious and nutritious combination that can be prepared in the air fryer for a quick and healthy meal. This method of cooking is perfect for those who want a convenient way to enjoy a flavorful dish without the hassle of traditional stovetop cooking. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you master this recipe:

Start by preparing your ingredients. Choose fresh, large shrimp, preferably with the shells on, as they add flavor and texture. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. You'll also need a cup of cooked rice, either white or brown, and some basic seasonings. A simple seasoning blend of salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder or paprika can enhance the taste.

In a large bowl, combine the shrimp and rice. Add your chosen seasoning and mix well, ensuring an even coating. You can adjust the amount of seasoning to your preference. For a spicier kick, add more paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper. If you like things mild, a little lemon juice or a squeeze of lime can brighten the flavors.

Now, it's time to air fry! Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the seasoned shrimp and rice mixture into the air fryer basket, ensuring they are in a single layer for even cooking. Cook for approximately 10-12 minutes, flipping the shrimp halfway through. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the size of your shrimp and the power of your air fryer. The goal is to cook the shrimp until they are pink and slightly curled, and the rice is heated through.

Once cooked, carefully transfer the shrimp and rice to a serving dish. You can garnish with some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added freshness. This dish is best served immediately, but it can also be a great make-ahead option for busy weeknights. Simply reheat in the air fryer or microwave before serving. Shrimp and rice cooked together in the air fryer is a convenient, tasty, and healthy meal that can be customized to your taste preferences.

Frequently asked questions