Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps the shrimp become slightly crispy during cooking.
- Place the shrimp in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss until coated. Add paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Mix well so every shrimp is evenly coated.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes. This helps the shrimp cook evenly and develop a lightly crisp exterior.
- Place the shrimp in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Cook for 4 minutes, then flip the shrimp using tongs. Continue cooking for another 3–4 minutes until the shrimp are pink, opaque, and fully cooked.
- Transfer the shrimp to a serving plate. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges.
Notes
Serving Suggestions: Air fryer shrimp is incredibly versatile. Serve it with steamed rice, garlic butter pasta, fresh salads, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or quinoa. It also makes an excellent filling for tacos, wraps, sandwiches, or grain bowls. Pair it with your favorite dipping sauces such as garlic aioli, cocktail sauce, spicy mayo, or tartar sauce.
Recipe Tips: Fresh or frozen shrimp both work well. If using frozen shrimp, thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning. Avoid overcooking, as shrimp become tough very quickly. Arrange shrimp in a single layer for the best air circulation. Adjust the cayenne pepper according to your preferred spice level. Add grated Parmesan cheese after cooking for extra flavor. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving brightens the flavor.
Storage: Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 2–3 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving for too long, as shrimp can become rubbery.
