Air Fryer Shrimp has officially become my weeknight lifesaver. When I need dinner fast but still want something that feels fresh and flavorful, this is the recipe I turn to. It takes less than 10 minutes to cook, and the shrimp come out perfectly tender every single time.
Whether you call them shrimp or prawns, this air fryer shrimp recipe is simple, versatile, and packed with flavor. I love how the edges get slightly crisp while the inside stays juicy. It works as a main dish, appetizer, taco filling, or even tossed into a salad.
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Air Fryer Shrimp (Or Prawns)
This recipe is all about quick seasoning and high heat. The air fryer cooks shrimp fast, so you get that light crisp texture without overcooking.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Ready in under 10 minutes
- Minimal prep
- High protein and low carb
- Perfect for meal prep
- Easy to customize with spices
Ingredients
Main Ingredient
- 1 pound large shrimp or prawns, peeled and deveined
Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- Pinch of red pepper flakes, optional
Optional Garnish
- Fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare The Shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps them cook evenly and keeps them from steaming.
Step 2: Season
Place shrimp in a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, paprika, black pepper, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Toss until evenly coated.
Step 3: Air Fry
Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees. Arrange shrimp in a single layer in the basket. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, shaking halfway through, until shrimp are pink and opaque.
Step 4: Serve
Remove from the air fryer and garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon if desired.
Notes And Variations
- Add Cajun seasoning for a spicy version
- Toss in melted butter and garlic after cooking
- Serve in tacos with slaw
- Add to pasta or rice bowls
- Do not overcrowd the basket
FAQs
At 400 degrees, shrimp cook in 6 to 8 minutes depending on size.
Yes, but thaw them completely and pat dry before seasoning.
Shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque and curl into a loose C shape.
📖 Recipe
Air Fryer Shrimp (or Prawns)
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 13 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Description
Make deliciously juicy shrimp in minutes in your air fryer. Add them to tacos, salads, pasta, or snack on them straight from the basket! Fast, fuss-free shrimp perfection!
Ingredients
- 1 lb / 450 g shrimp or prawns, large, peeled, deveined
- 2 tablespoons / 30 ml light olive oil
- 1 teaspoon / 2 g paprika
- 1 teaspoon / 3 g garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon / 3 g salt
- ¼ teaspoon / 0.5 g black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F / 200°C.
- Pat the shrimp dry, then place in a bowl, add the oil and seasoning, and gently toss to coat.
- Place shrimp in the air fryer basket in a single layer, without overcrowding.
- Air fry at 400°F / 200°C for 8-10 minutes until cooked through and golden brown. Check frequently towards the end of the cooking time to avoid overcooking.
Notes
You can use shrimp or prawns for this recipe. Adjust cooking time depending on shrimp size.
Use another high-smoke-point oil if preferred.
Can substitute a pre-made seasoning rub (3 teaspoons).
Check doneness with a thermometer—should reach 145°F / 63°C.
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Final Thoughts
Air Fryer Shrimp is one of those recipes that proves dinner does not have to be complicated to be delicious. It is fast, flavorful, and incredibly flexible. I love how quickly it comes together, especially on busy nights when I do not want to stand over the stove.
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