Crispy Air Fryer Shrimp

This Air Fryer Shrimp recipe offers a quick, crispy, and flavorful way to prepare shrimp that is perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. The shrimp come out juicy inside with a lightly crisp exterior, achieved with minimal oil and very little handson time. You can easily customize the seasoning to suit your mood, whether you prefer Cajun spice, garlic butter, or lemon pepper.

I first made this recipe on a hectic weeknight when I wanted something fast yet satisfying. My family loved the crispiness and the bold flavors, and now it's a goto for lastminute meals.

Ingredients

• Large shrimp: peeled and deveined with tails on or off for better cooking control and taste choose fresh or fully thawed shrimp for best results
• Olive oil or avocado oil: to help the spices stick and promote browning without excess fat
• Garlic powder: for a warm, savory base of flavor
• Smoked paprika: to add a subtle smokiness and vibrant color Spanish smoked paprika is ideal
• Onion powder: to deepen the flavor without overpowering
• Salt: to enhance all the seasonings and the shrimp’s natural taste
• Black pepper: for gentle heat and pungency
• Red pepper flakes: optional for a kick of heat when desired
• Fresh lemon juice: adds brightness and freshness when squeezed over after cooking
• Dipping sauce (optional): Greek yogurt or mayo as a creamy base ketchup and Dijon mustard for tang and a little sweetness garlic powder and paprika to echo the shrimp seasoning fresh lemon juice for acidity and brightness

Instructions

Prep the Shrimp:

Pat the shrimp dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove any moisture. This step is key to getting a crisp finish. Place the shrimp in a mixing bowl and drizzle evenly with olive oil. Sprinkle garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Toss the shrimp until every piece is coated with the seasoning mixture for consistent flavor.

Preheat the Air Fryer:

Set your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit or 200 degrees Celsius and let it preheat for about 3 minutes. Spray the air fryer basket lightly with cooking spray if you want to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Air Fry the Shrimp:

Arrange the shrimp in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to allow the hot air to circulate freely and ensure even cooking. Cook the shrimp for 6 to 8 minutes, pausing in the middle of cooking to shake or flip them over. Watch for the shrimp to turn pink, curl up, and develop slight crisp edges. Remove from the air fryer and immediately squeeze fresh lemon juice on top.

Make the Dipping Sauce (Optional):

In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt or mayo, ketchup, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, lemon juice, and a pinch of paprika until smooth. Chill in the fridge until ready to serve alongside the shrimp.

Serve and Enjoy:

Serve the shrimp hot alongside the dipping sauce or use them as a topping for salads, tacos, or rice bowls. Garnish with chopped parsley, green onions, or extra lemon wedges for added color and flavor.

I love smoked paprika in this recipe because it brings a smoky depth that feels indulgent but is so simple to add. A memorable moment with this dish was when we hosted a casual game night and these shrimp disappeared first from the platter. Their crispness and seasoning turned them into an instant crowd pleaser.

Storage Tips

Store cooked shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within two days for the best texture and flavor. Avoid freezing air fried shrimp as they lose their crispness and become rubbery upon reheating. When reheating, use the air fryer at a moderate temperature for just a few minutes to restore warmth without drying them out.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap smoked paprika for regular paprika or smoked chili powder if you prefer a different smoky intensity. Use lemon pepper seasoning instead of garlic powder and paprika for a citrusy twist. If you do not have Greek yogurt for the sauce, mayonnaise or sour cream can be used as a creamy base.

Serving Suggestions

These shrimp shine when paired with a fresh green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. Try them in soft tacos topped with slaw and avocado for a quick dinner. They also complement pasta dishes dressed with garlic butter or Alfredo sauce beautifully. For parties, serve them with toothpicks alongside a few dipping sauces for easy snacking.

These air fried shrimp are quick to make and consistently crisp. Adjust seasonings and serve them with your favorite dipping sauce to suit the occasion.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can frozen shrimp be used?

Yes, thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning to achieve the best crisp texture.

→ What size shrimp is ideal?

Large (26–30 count) or jumbo (21–25 count) shrimp cook evenly and stay juicy with this method.

→ Can pre-cooked shrimp be substituted?

Pre-cooked shrimp can be used but reduce cooking time to 3–4 minutes to avoid overcooking and rubbery texture.

→ How to avoid shrimp sticking in the fryer?

Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray before cooking to prevent sticking and promote even crisping.

→ Is this suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure optional sauces used are gluten-free as well.