Ingredients & Substitutions
Here I explain the best ingredients for cooking shrimp in air fryer, what each one does in the recipe, and substitution options. For measurements, see the recipe card.
Shrimp – For best results, make sure to use raw shrimp, not pre-cooked. I used large, raw ones, peeled and deveined (31-40 shrimps per pound). I recommend leaving the tails on for better flavor and presentation, but you can use the kind with tails removed if you like. Olive Oil – Use any neutral cooking oil you prefer, or even cooking spray. Lemon Juice – Helps to tenderize the shrimp and maintain moisture. Use fresh or bottled. Seasonings – Including garlic powder, smoked paprika, sea salt, and black pepper.
How To Cook Shrimp In The Air Fryer
This section shows how to make how to air fry shrimp, with step-by-step photos and details about the technique, to help you visualize it. For full instructions with amounts and temperatures, see the recipe card. Use the seasonings and spices in my coconut shrimp, or try these homemade seasonings for new flavor profiles:
Italian seasoning mix Cajun seasoning DIY Taco seasoning Lemon pepper Blackened seasoning
How Long To Cook Shrimp In The Air Fryer?
Air frying shrimp can take anywhere between 2 and 7 minutes (after preheating), depending on their size and your air fryer model. They are done when they appear pink and opaque. If shrimp sit in lemon juice for too long, they will start to “cook” like shrimp ceviche. Preheat your air fryer first, then use the chart below for approximate cook times based on shrimp size: Note: Times can vary depending on your air fryer (I tried two different ones and got times a few minutes apart), so I recommend checking on them every 2 minutes.
Can You Cook Frozen Shrimp In The Air Fryer?
Yes, you can cook air fryer shrimp frozen. For raw frozen shrimp, follow the same air fryer shrimp recipe below, and simply cook for about 8-11 minutes instead, until the shrimp is hot and opaque. If your frozen shrimp is already cooked, 4-5 minutes should be enough time.
Storage Instructions
Store: The best way to store leftover air fry shrimp is to keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up 2 days. Reheat: Serve chilled (such as in a shrimp avocado salad!), or reheat shrimp in the air fryer for 1-3 minutes. Be careful not to overheat or they will be tough. Freeze: Cool air fryer shrimp completely and store in freezer-safe containers for up to 4 weeks. Frozen shrimp can reheat in the air fryer (no need to thaw), although they won’t be as firm.
What To Serve With Air Fryer Shrimp Recipes
Air fried shrimp pair perfectly with so many recipes! Try some of these pairing ideas:
Sauces – Dunk shrimp in sugar-free teriyaki, fresh lemon sauce for fish, tangy sugar-free barbecue sauce, or lemon garlic aioli. You could even use peri peri sauce or caesar dressing for a delicious twist. Pasta – Toss with your favorite pasta and sauce! For a healthier alternative, pair with roasted spaghetti squash, shirataki noodles, or make a plate of shrimp scampi with zoodles. Salads – Add shrimp to a green goddess salad, shrimp avocado salad, or mango salad. Rice – Serve shrimp with your favorite rice (or riced veggies). I love them with cauliflower rice! Shrimp Tacos – Stuff your favorite tortillas with air fryer shrimp, salsa, avocado or guacamole, shredded cheese, red onions, taco slaw, and cilantro. Steak – Make it a surf and turf meal by adding some fast and juicy air fryer steak bites!
More Healthy Shrimp Recipes
Shrimp are the perfect protein for quick weeknight meals! If you enjoy this air fryer recipe, you’ll like these dishes too: Please enter your first name for your account. Your saved recipe will also be sent to your email.
