1. Prep the Shrimp
- Pat shrimp dry with paper towels (this helps them crisp).
- Toss shrimp in olive oil, then season with garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
2. Preheat the Air Fryer
- Preheat to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
- A hot basket ensures shrimp cook evenly.
3. Air Fry the Shrimp
- Arrange shrimp in a single layer in the basket (don’t overcrowd).
- Air fry for 6–8 minutes, shaking basket halfway through.
- Shrimp are done when pink, opaque, and slightly crisp on edges.
4. Serve Immediately
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over shrimp.
- Garnish with parsley.
- Serve hot with cocktail sauce, garlic butter, or on top of pasta, salads, or tacos.
Serving Ideas
- Appetizer: With cocktail or tartar sauce.
- Dinner: Over rice, quinoa, or creamy pasta.
- Tacos: In tortillas with slaw, avocado, and spicy mayo.
- Healthy bowls: On top of greens or grain bowls.
Tips & Variations
- Extra crispy: Toss shrimp in 2 tbsp panko breadcrumbs before air frying.
- Garlic butter shrimp: Swap olive oil for melted butter and toss with minced garlic.
- Cajun-style: Use Cajun seasoning instead of paprika + cayenne.
- Frozen shrimp: You can cook from frozen—add 2–3 minutes to cooking time.
Final Thoughts
This Air Fryer Shrimp is proof that quick recipes don’t have to skimp on flavor. Juicy, tender, and lightly crisp, they’re ready in minutes and versatile enough for any meal of the day. Once you try them, they’ll become a weekly favorite!