Easy Air Fryer Shrimp (No Breading) is a quick and healthy way to make perfectly cooked shrimp without the mess of breading or deep frying. The air fryer cooks the shrimp to perfection—crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside—all while using very little oil.
Easy Air Fryer Shrimp (No Breading) Recipe
Ingredients:
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1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (fresh or thawed)
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1 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter for extra richness)
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2-3 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
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1 tsp paprika (smoked or regular)
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1/2 tsp onion powder
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1/2 tsp dried oregano
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1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (optional, for garnish)
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Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
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Peel and Devein: If you haven’t already, peel the shrimp and remove the veins. Leave the tails on for a more rustic presentation, or remove them if you prefer.
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Dry the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps them crisp up better in the air fryer.
2. Season the Shrimp:
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In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, onion powder, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Make sure each shrimp is well-coated in the seasoning mix.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer:
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Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This ensures the shrimp cook evenly and quickly.
4. Cook the Shrimp:
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Arrange the seasoned shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure they’re not overcrowded, so they cook evenly. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
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Air Fry: Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time for even crispness. The shrimp should be pink and opaque, with an internal temperature of 120°F (49°C).
5. Serve:
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Remove the shrimp from the air fryer and transfer them to a serving platter. If desired, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp and garnish with fresh parsley.
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Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, or enjoy them as a topping for salads, tacos, pasta, or rice.
Tips & Variations:
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Use Different Seasonings: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings like Italian seasoning, Cajun seasoning, or lemon pepper. You can also add some grated Parmesan for a cheesy touch.
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Make it Spicy: If you love heat, increase the amount of cayenne pepper, or add a pinch of chili flakes to the seasoning mix.
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Sauces: Serve with a tangy dipping sauce like garlic butter, cocktail sauce, or a spicy mayo for a kick. For a healthier option, try a yogurt-based dip with herbs.
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Storage: Leftover shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. They can be eaten cold or reheated in the air fryer for 1-2 minutes to bring back the crispness.
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How to Make Shrimp Skewers: If you prefer skewers, thread the shrimp onto metal or soaked wooden skewers before air frying. They’ll cook just as fast, but you can easily turn them over while grilling.
Frequently Asked Questions (Q/A)
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
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A: Yes! You can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them first. You can thaw them by placing them in a bowl of cold water for 15-20 minutes, then patting them dry before seasoning and cooking.
Q: Do I need to flip the shrimp during cooking?
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A: While it’s not strictly necessary to flip the shrimp, shaking the air fryer basket halfway through cooking will ensure they cook evenly and get crispy on both sides.
Q: Can I cook other seafood in the air fryer?
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A: Yes! You can cook scallops, salmon fillets, and other seafood in the air fryer. Just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness and type of seafood.
Q: Can I make these shrimp without oil?
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A: Yes, you can make the shrimp without oil by using a spray oil (like olive oil spray) to coat the shrimp lightly. While the shrimp may not be as crispy without oil, they’ll still cook up deliciously.
Q: How do I know when the shrimp are done?
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A: Shrimp cook very quickly. They are done when they turn pink and opaque, and when their internal temperature reaches 120°F (49°C). Use a kitchen thermometer to check, or cut into one to check for doneness.