Air Fryer Garlic Shrimp Recipe
If you’re looking for a quick and delicious seafood dish, look no further than this Air Fryer Garlic Shrimp Recipe. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or an elegant appetizer for your next gathering. The beauty of cooking shrimp in an air fryer is that it keeps them perfectly tender and juicy while infusing them with delicious garlicky goodness. Let’s dive into the details of this simple yet satisfying recipe!
Why It Deserves a Spot
This Air Fryer Garlic Shrimp Recipe deserves a spot in your regular meal rotation for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly quick to prepare, taking just around 10 minutes from start to finish. Second, shrimp is a versatile protein that cooks beautifully in the air fryer, allowing for a crispy exterior while remaining moist inside. Lastly, the combination of garlic powder, avocado oil, salt, and pepper creates a flavor profile that’s both simple and satisfying, making it suitable for everyone—from busy families to dinner party guests.
Ingredient Notes
- Raw Shrimp: Use 1 pound of large, defrosted shrimp, with shells removed and tails left on or off based on your preference. Fresh shrimp is ideal, but frozen works well too.
- Avocado Oil: This oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavor, making it perfect for air frying. You can substitute with olive oil if needed.
- Garlic Powder: This spice adds a rich, garlicky flavor without the hassle of peeling and chopping fresh garlic.
- Salt: Enhances the natural flavor of the shrimp. Adjust the amount to taste.
- Black Pepper: Adds a touch of heat and depth to the overall flavor.
Equipment at a Glance
- Air Fryer: Essential for achieving perfectly cooked shrimp with a crispy exterior.
- Bowl: For mixing the shrimp with the seasonings.
- Spoon or Tongs: For tossing the shrimp in the bowl and placing them in the air fryer.
- Meat Thermometer: Optional but useful to check the shrimp for doneness.
Air Fryer Garlic Shrimp Recipe, Made Easy
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Begin by ensuring your shrimp are fully thawed if using frozen shrimp. Remove the shells if they haven’t been taken off yet, and pat them dry with a paper towel for better seasoning adhesion.
Step 2: Season the Shrimp
In a medium bowl, combine the shrimp with 1 teaspoon of avocado oil, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Toss the shrimp well until they are evenly coated with the seasonings.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to preheat at 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating helps achieve that desired crispiness.
Step 4: Air Fry the Shrimp
Once preheated, place the seasoned shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking. Air fry for 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to promote even crisping.
Step 5: Check for Doneness
The shrimp should be pink and opaque when fully cooked. If you have a meat thermometer, check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Carefully remove the shrimp from the air fryer and serve immediately. They pair beautifully with a fresh salad, over pasta, or as a stand-alone appetizer. Enjoy the garlicky goodness!
No-Store Runs Needed
- Most of the ingredients for this Air Fryer Garlic Shrimp Recipe are pantry staples, so you likely won’t need to make an extra trip to the store.
- Avocado oil can be swapped with olive oil, which is common in most kitchens.
- Garlic powder is a handy spice that can be found in any spice rack.
- Feel free to customize the seasoning with other spices you have on hand, like paprika or cayenne pepper, for an extra kick!
Avoid These Mistakes
- Overcrowding the air fryer basket can lead to uneven cooking. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Not drying the shrimp can prevent the seasonings from adhering well, resulting in less flavor.
- Forgetting to preheat the air fryer can lead to longer cooking times and less crispy results.
- Cooking shrimp too long can make them rubbery. Keep an eye on them as they cook!
Save It for Later
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain that delightful crispiness.
This dish is also great for meal prep! Cook a larger batch and portion them out for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Common Qs About Air Fryer Garlic Shrimp Recipe
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning.
How do I know when the shrimp are done cooking?
The shrimp will turn pink and opaque when cooked through. A meat thermometer should read 145°F (63°C) for perfect doneness.
Can I add other seasonings to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite spices such as paprika, cayenne pepper, or even a squeeze of lemon juice for a fresh twist.
What should I serve with garlic shrimp?
Garlic shrimp pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, including rice, pasta, or a fresh garden salad. You can also enjoy it as a flavorful topping for tacos!
Keep Cooking
- Sally’s Baking Addiction for sweet treat inspiration.
- Pinch of Yum for wholesome, delicious meals.
- Minimalist Baker for quick and easy recipes with minimal ingredients.
- Food Network for a wide variety of cooking inspiration.
Final Bite
This Air Fryer Garlic Shrimp Recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience. The ease of preparation, combined with the delightful flavors, makes it a must-try for anyone who loves seafood or is simply looking for a quick and satisfying dish. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. The next time you’re in a pinch for dinner, remember this Air Fryer Garlic Shrimp Recipe! With just a few ingredients and a little time, you’ll have a delicious meal on your table that everyone will love. Happy cooking!
Air Fryer Garlic Shrimp Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by ensuring your shrimp are fully thawed if using frozen shrimp. Remove the shells if they haven’t been taken off yet, and pat them dry with a paper towel for better seasoning adhesion.
- In a medium bowl, combine the shrimp with 1 teaspoon of avocado oil, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Toss the shrimp well until they are evenly coated with the seasonings.
- Set your air fryer to preheat at 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating helps achieve that desired crispiness.
- Once preheated, place the seasoned shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking. Air fry for 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to promote even crisping.
- The shrimp should be pink and opaque when fully cooked. If you have a meat thermometer, check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Carefully remove the shrimp from the air fryer and serve immediately. They pair beautifully with a fresh salad, over pasta, or as a stand-alone appetizer. Enjoy the garlicky goodness!
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain crispiness.
- Feel free to customize the seasoning with other spices like paprika or cayenne for an extra kick!
