
Air fryer shrimp has become a game-changing cooking method in my kitchen. The results are consistently excellent - perfectly crispy on the outside while remaining succulent inside. Using minimal oil makes this a healthier cooking option that delivers restaurant-quality results every time.
Air Fryer Shrimp Essentials
The air fryer excels at creating evenly cooked, golden brown shrimp in mere minutes. No more dealing with splattering oil or constant monitoring at the stovetop. The enclosed cooking environment ensures consistent results while keeping the kitchen clean and cool.
Ingredients Needed
- Shrimp: 500g peeled and deveined
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons extra virgin
- Garlic: 2 fresh cloves, minced
- Seasoning Blend:
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
- Garnish: Fresh lemon wedges and chopped parsley
Cooking Instructions
- Preheat
- Set air fryer temperature to 200°C (400°F) to warm up.
- Season
- Combine olive oil, minced garlic, and spice mixture in a bowl.
- Coat
- Toss shrimp in the seasoned oil mixture until well coated.
- Air Fry
- Place shrimp in a single layer and cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Finish
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Pro Tips
For enhanced flavor, marinate the shrimp for 30 minutes before cooking. A homemade Greek yogurt-garlic sauce makes an excellent accompaniment. Experiment with smoked paprika for a subtle grilled taste, or add turmeric for beautiful golden color and extra depth of flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use frozen shrimp for this?
- Definitely, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry. This ensures they’ll cook evenly.
- → How can I tell when the shrimp are done?
- They’re ready when they turn pink and curl into a C shape. Be cautious not to overcook them, or they’ll get rubbery.
- → Should I flip the shrimp while cooking?
- Yes, flipping halfway helps them cook evenly and get crispy all around.
- → What’s the best shrimp size to use?
- Medium-sized shrimp work great here. They cook evenly and stay juicy inside.
- → How should I serve these shrimp?
- They’re awesome with fresh lemon slices and parsley. Pair them with salad, rice, or pasta for a full meal.