Air Fryer Garlic Shrimp

There’s something incredibly satisfying about preparing a quick and flavorful meal, and that’s exactly what you’ll get with Air Fryer Garlic Shrimp. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a spontaneous decision one evening after a long day. I wanted something that didn’t take much time but packed a punch of flavor. The thought of juicy, tender shrimp coated in savory garlic and a hint of spice was too tempting to resist. As soon as I pulled the shrimp from the air fryer, the aroma filled my kitchen and my family was immediately drawn in. Watching their eyes light up as they took their first bite made it clear; this would become a go-to recipe in our home.

What to Buy for Air Fryer Garlic Shrimp

When it comes to making Air Fryer Garlic Shrimp, the ingredients are straightforward yet essential to creating the perfect dish. The beauty of this recipe lies in how well these simple ingredients work together to enhance the natural sweetness of the shrimp. The key players include fresh shrimp and fragrant garlic powder, which create a delicious base for flavor.

• 1 lb. large raw shrimp – Look for shrimp that are fresh and firm. Whether you’re using frozen or fresh shrimp, they should be defrosted properly and their peels removed for the best results.
• 1 tsp avocado oil – This oil not only adds a rich flavor but is also a healthy fat that helps the shrimp crisp up nicely in the air fryer.
• 1 tsp garlic powder – This is the star seasoning of the dish! It adds a warm, savory depth to the shrimp that pairs perfectly with their natural sweetness.
• ¼ tsp salt – A little salt enhances all the flavors while cooking, making sure everything comes together beautifully.
• ⅛ tsp black pepper – A touch of black pepper adds a subtle heat that complements the other ingredients well.

Making This Air Fryer Garlic Shrimp

Getting ready to make Air Fryer Garlic Shrimp is a breeze, and I love how quickly it comes together. Follow these simple steps, and soon enough, you’ll be savoring the crispy, garlicky goodness of perfectly cooked shrimp.

1. Start by running the frozen shrimp under cool water to defrost completely. This is essential for ensuring even cooking. Once thawed, lay the shrimp on a paper towel-lined plate and pat them dry thoroughly with additional paper towels. This step helps achieve that nice sear when cooking.
2. In a medium bowl, toss the dry shrimp with the avocado oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. You want to ensure each shrimp is evenly coated with the seasoning mixture. This not only elevates the flavor but also adds a beautiful sheen to the shrimp.
3. Next, preheat your air fryer to 360 degrees F. This step is crucial as it ensures that the shrimp start cooking immediately when placed in the basket.
4. Once preheated, arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding; give them space to cook evenly and crisp up. If you need to, cook in batches.
5. Now, it’s time to cook! Set the timer for 6 minutes. Halfway through, around the 3-minute mark, open the air fryer and gently turn the shrimp to promote even cooking. You’ll notice them turning a lovely golden color.
6. When the timer goes off, check the shrimp for doneness. They should be pink and opaque, with a slightly crispy exterior. If they need a touch longer, feel free to cook them for another minute or two.
7. Once done, carefully remove the shrimp from the air fryer and transfer them to a serving platter. They should have a delightful aroma that’s hard to resist. Serve immediately!
8. Enjoy your deliciously crispy Air Fryer Garlic Shrimp as is or with a side of your choice. They make a fantastic addition to salads, pasta dishes, or even just on their own with a squeeze of fresh lemon.

Helpful Notes about Air Fryer Garlic Shrimp

While making Air Fryer Garlic Shrimp, a few helpful notes can enhance your cooking experience. Here are some tips to ensure the best results:

• Storage: Leftover shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat them in the air fryer to restore that crispy texture.
• Freezing: If you have extra shrimp, you can freeze raw shrimp for up to three months. Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.
• Pairing: These shrimp are excellent served with a fresh salad or over rice. Pair with lemon wedges for an extra burst of flavor.
• Garnish: Consider garnishing your cooked shrimp with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added color and heat.
• Cooking Time Variation: Cooking times may vary based on the size of the shrimp used. Adjust accordingly if you are using larger or smaller shrimp.

What to Pair With Air Fryer Garlic Shrimp

When it comes to serving Air Fryer Garlic Shrimp, the options are plentiful! Here are some delicious pairings to consider:

• Garlic Bread: Pairing this dish with warm, buttery garlic bread creates an excellent combination. The bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover juices.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light, fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the shrimp perfectly. Toss together greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers for a refreshing side.
• Rice: Serve the shrimp over fluffy rice or quinoa. The grains absorb the flavors of the shrimp, providing a hearty base.
• Pasta: For an Italian flair, toss the shrimp with pasta, olive oil, and fresh herbs. It’s a delightful seafood pasta dish!
• Vegetable Stir-Fry: A colorful vegetable stir-fry adds brightness and nutrition to your meal. Pair with the shrimp for a complete dish.
• Occasions: This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or even romantic dinners at home. It’s versatile enough for any occasion!

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, Air Fryer Garlic Shrimp is a simple yet delightful dish that elevates any meal with its rich flavors and quick preparation. I encourage you to try this recipe for yourself; it might just become a favorite in your home. The crispy texture and savory taste will surely impress your family and friends, making it a perfect choice for any occasion.

Air Fryer Garlic Shrimp

The ultimate seafood delight, Air Fryer Garlic Shrimp is a quick and easy weeknight dinner that delights your taste buds! Juicy shrimp seasoned with garlic and spices, cooked to crispy perfection. A must-try tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 4 minutes mins

Cook Time 6 minutes mins

Total Time 10 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Seafood

Servings 6 servings

Calories 200 kcal

Equipment

• Skillet
• Peeler
• Air Fryer

Ingredients

  

• 1 lb large raw shrimp defrosted, peels removed, tails optional
• 1 tsp avocado oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• ⅛ tsp black pepper

Instructions

 

• Run frozen shrimp under cool water to defrost completely. Lay shrimp on a paper towel lined plate and pat dry with paper towels.
• Add shrimp to a bowl and toss with avocado oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
• Place shrimp in even layer in air fryer basket. Cook at 360 degrees F. for 6 minutes, turning shrimp halfway through cooking. Enjoy!

Notes

• This recipe is for large shrimp. If using jumbo, you may need to cook longer. If using smaller, you will not have to cook as long. Check after 3 minutes and keep cooking until shrimp is pink and cooked through.
• Why so much sodium? I get this question a lot with seafood recipes. Shrimp live in salt water, making them naturally high in sodium. Feel free to remove the added salt to the recipe if desired.

Keyword Air Fryer Recipes, easy seafood, Quick Dinner Ideas, shrimp recipes

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Meet Elena Vance

I am passionate about the idea that we eat with our eyes first, so I strive to make food look just as good as it tastes. I work closely with the team to style and photograph our dishes, giving you a clear, beautiful guide on what to aim for. I had so much fun preparing this recipe, and I hope you find just as much joy in making it (and eating it!) as we did.