Ready to add a true crowd-pleaser to your dinner rotation? This Air Fryer Shrimp recipe turns plump, juicy shrimp into a superstar dish with the help of a quick air fry and a rich garlic herb butter sauce. Whether you’re whipping up a party appetizer or topping off a simple weeknight salad, each bite bursts with zesty lemon, savory garlic, and fresh herbs. Best of all, the whole process takes just minutes, so you can channel big flavor without breaking a sweat!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Air Fryer Shrimp is that it relies on just a handful of pantry staples, each one working its magic. Fresh shrimp become tender in the air fryer, spices deliver the right kick, and the garlicky butter sauce brings it all together for a dish that’s bright, savory, and downright irresistible.

Shrimp (1 pound, large, peeled and deveined): Opt for bigger shrimp (26–30 count per pound) for juicy bites that stay tender inside.
Olive Oil (2 teaspoons): Helps the seasoning stick and gives a little richness to the shrimp.
Kosher Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances all the natural flavors and brings out the sweetness in the shrimp.
Black Pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds a subtle heat and balances the dish.
Garlic Powder (½ teaspoon for shrimp, ½ teaspoon for sauce): Gives that classic savory punch both in the marinade and in the sauce.
Onion Powder (½ teaspoon): Offers an extra layer of savory depth to the shrimp.
Unsalted Butter (8 tablespoons): Melts into a luscious sauce to finish your Air Fryer Shrimp.
Fresh Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Brings delicious aroma and flavor to the garlic sauce.
Lemon Juice (2 teaspoons, freshly squeezed): Brightens everything up so each bite pops.
Red Pepper Flakes (¼ teaspoon, optional): Provides subtle heat and color—use if you like a little kick.
Fresh Parsley (1 tablespoon, chopped): A touch of green makes the shrimp look irresistible and adds a fresh finish.

How to Make Air Fryer Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare and Season the Shrimp

Start by patting your shrimp dry with paper towels for maximum flavor absorption. Toss them in a large bowl with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Use tongs or your hands to ensure every shrimp is coated. This quick marinade not only boosts the shrimp’s flavor but helps create that slightly crisp texture the air fryer is famous for.

Step 2: Arrange Shrimp in the Air Fryer

Lightly spray your air fryer basket with olive oil or nonstick spray to prevent sticking. Lay the shrimp out in a single layer so they cook evenly—no overlapping. If you have a smaller air fryer, you may need to work in batches, but it’s well worth the few extra minutes to guarantee perfectly cooked Air Fryer Shrimp.

Step 3: Air Fry to Perfection

Set your air fryer to 400°F and cook the seasoned shrimp for about 6 minutes. Watch for them to turn pink, curl slightly, and look opaque. Overcooking can make them rubbery, so keep your eye on them—shrimp cook quickly!

Step 4: Make the Garlic Herb Butter Sauce

While your shrimp are sizzling, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and let it cook for just a minute, stirring constantly so it doesn’t scorch. Off the heat, whisk in lemon juice, extra garlic powder, salt, red pepper flakes if you like some heat, and that fresh parsley. This sauce is pure magic on Air Fryer Shrimp.

Step 5: Serve and Savor!

Arrange those gorgeous shrimp on a platter and generously spoon the warm garlic herb butter over the top. A final squeeze of fresh lemon juice is highly recommended! That’s it—your Air Fryer Shrimp is ready to steal the show.

How to Serve Air Fryer Shrimp

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley and a few wedges of lemon really make Air Fryer Shrimp pop on the plate. For a restaurant-style touch, add a dusting of extra black pepper or a tiny pinch of red pepper flakes just before serving.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with fluffy white rice, garlic butter noodles, or a big green salad. You can also tuck Air Fryer Shrimp into tacos, pile them over creamy polenta, or simply serve with crusty bread to soak up every drop of that glorious garlic sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Try threading the cooked shrimp onto skewers for easy party snacking, stacking them atop individual salad cups, or using them to elevate a seafood pasta bowl. Air Fryer Shrimp shine equally bright as an elegant appetizer or a fast-and-fancy weeknight main course.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Air Fryer Shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure to keep the shrimp and garlic herb butter together for best results—refrigeration helps the flavors meld even more.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked shrimp (without the sauce) in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag and freeze for up to one month. Just remember, shrimp are at their best freshly cooked, so freezing is best for last-minute meal needs.

Reheating

The easiest way to reheat Air Fryer Shrimp is in the air fryer itself! A quick 2–3 minutes at 350°F re-crisps the outsides while keeping the shrimp juicy. Warm the garlic butter sauce gently in the microwave or in a small pan over low heat.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw your shrimp completely and pat them dry before seasoning. This helps the seasoning stick and keeps the shrimp from steaming instead of crisping in the air fryer.

Is it necessary to peel the shrimp?

Peeling is up to you—tails on make for fun finger food and presentation, while tails off are more convenient for tossing in pastas or salads. Both options are delicious in Air Fryer Shrimp!

How do I know when the shrimp are done?

The shrimp are done when they curl into a loose “C” shape, turn pink, and become opaque. Avoid overcooking, as they can quickly turn rubbery. If you’re in doubt, cut one open after 6 minutes to check.

What’s the best way to keep shrimp from sticking to the air fryer?

A quick spritz of nonstick spray or olive oil spray in the basket works wonders. Lining with parchment designed for air fryers also helps, but always remember to check your air fryer’s guidelines first.

Can I double this Air Fryer Shrimp recipe?

You sure can—just be careful not to overcrowd the basket. Work in batches for best results so every shrimp cooks evenly and gets that signature air fryer crispness.

Final Thoughts

Air Fryer Shrimp is the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Quick, foolproof, and seriously delicious, it transforms a handful of ingredients into a little seafood magic in just minutes. Give it a try, and prepare to wow your family and friends—no restaurant reservation required!

Air Fryer Shrimp Recipe