This recipe was born out of a busy weeknight and a craving for something fast, flavorful, and healthy.
I tossed a few shrimp in some pantry spices, popped them in the air fryer—and instantly fell in love.
Now, this Air Fryer Shrimp has become my go-to: juicy, golden, and packed with smoky paprika and garlic flavor in every bite.
It’s the kind of dish that feels special but takes less than 10 minutes!
Why I Love This Recipe
Only 5 minutes of cooking time—no need to heat the stove.
Bold, smoky flavor with garlic, paprika, and herbs.
Perfect texture: tender and juicy with lightly crisp edges.
Naturally low-carb, gluten-free, and keto-friendly.
Pairs beautifully with salads, tacos, rice, or pasta.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Shrimp: Use jumbo peeled and deveined shrimp for quick prep and even cooking.
Olive Oil: Helps lock in moisture and crisp the edges.
Garlic Powder: Adds bold, savory flavor without chopping.
Sweet Paprika: Brings warmth and smokiness.
Dried Parsley: Gives a touch of herbal brightness.
Salt: Just enough to enhance every flavor.
Lemon Wedges: A fresh, tangy finish that brightens the shrimp.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Pat shrimp dry with paper towels for the best seasoning coverage.
Don’t overcrowd the air fryer—work in batches for even cooking.
Add a pinch of cayenne if you like a little heat.
Serve immediately after cooking to enjoy their perfect texture.
Want grilled vibes? Use smoked paprika instead of sweet.
How to Make Air Fryer Shrimp
Step 1: Season the Shrimp
In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, parsley, and salt.
Add shrimp and toss to coat thoroughly on all sides.
Step 2: Air Fry
Place shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
Air fry at 400°F for 5 to 6 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Cook in batches if needed to avoid overlapping.
Step 3: Serve
Transfer shrimp to a plate and serve immediately.
Add fresh lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over top.
What to Serve It With
Over a bed of greens with a light vinaigrette
In tacos with cabbage slaw and avocado
With garlic rice or cauliflower rice
Tossed into warm pasta with butter and herbs
Alongside roasted vegetables or grilled corn
Variations / Substitutions
Use smoked paprika or chili powder for a deeper, spicier flavor.
Swap olive oil with avocado oil for a higher smoke point.
Try Cajun seasoning instead of the garlic-paprika mix.
Add a touch of honey or brown sugar for sweet heat.
Serve cold in salads or wraps for meal prep.
Storage & Leftovers
Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently in the air fryer or skillet for a couple of minutes—just enough to warm without overcooking.
Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make shrimp rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, but be sure to thaw and pat them dry before seasoning and cooking.
Do I need to peel the shrimp first?
Yes, this recipe works best with peeled and deveined shrimp for easy eating.
How do I prevent the shrimp from drying out?
Don’t overcook them—5 to 6 minutes is perfect. Also, coating them in oil helps retain moisture.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but cook in batches to ensure they crisp up evenly in the air fryer.
Is this recipe spicy?
Not at all! It’s flavorful but mild. Add cayenne or hot sauce if you like heat.
Can I grill these instead of air frying?
Absolutely—just skewer and grill for about 2–3 minutes per side.
What size shrimp should I use?
Jumbo (21–25 count per pound) works great for juicy, meaty bites.
Final Thoughts
This Air Fryer Shrimp is everything I love in a weeknight recipe: fast, flavorful, and foolproof.
It’s elegant enough for dinner guests, but easy enough for a Tuesday night.
Once you try it, I promise it’ll earn a spot in your regular rotation—just don’t forget the lemon!
