Name: Crispy Air Fryer Shrimp
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 3 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on optional); 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs, beaten; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; Cooking spray; Lemon wedges (for serving); Tools:; Air fryer; Mixing bowls; Tongs; Baking sheet (optional, for prep)

Crispy Air Fryer Shrimp

There’s something magical about a quick, delicious meal that satisfies everyone at the table, and this Crispy Air Fryer Shrimp recipe has become a staple in our household. It started on a weeknight when I was juggling school pickups, laundry, and a mountain of homework help. My family’s love for shrimp paired with my need for fast, no-fuss cooking inspired me to try this dish. Little did I know it would become a family favorite that we now request on repeat!

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is to prepare, yet it looks and tastes like something you’d order from a fancy seafood restaurant. The shrimp turn out perfectly crispy on the outside while staying juicy and tender inside. When paired with a tangy dipping sauce or a wedge of lemon, it’s pure magic. Plus, cooking in the air fryer means no greasy mess—a win-win for busy moms like me!

The best part? My picky eater gave it a thumbs up and even asked for seconds. I knew then that this recipe wasn’t just a hit—it was a keeper. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, an appetizer for entertaining, or a fun snack for the kids, this crispy shrimp recipe is bound to become your go-to. Let’s dive into the details so you can recreate this family favorite at home!

Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before coating. Excess moisture can affect the crispiness.

Do I have to use an air fryer?
While an air fryer gives the crispiest results with minimal oil, you can bake these shrimp in the oven at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What kind of breadcrumbs work best?
Panko breadcrumbs are ideal because they’re light and crisp, but regular breadcrumbs can work in a pinch.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour for a seamless substitution.

How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the air fryer to maintain crispiness.

What You Need to Make Crispy Air Fryer Shrimp

Ingredients:

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on optional)

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs, beaten

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp paprika

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

Cooking spray

Lemon wedges (for serving)

Tools:

Air fryer

Mixing bowls

Tongs

Baking sheet (optional, for prep)

How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Shrimp

Prep the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps the coating stick better.

Set Up the Coating Station: In one bowl, place the flour. In the second bowl, beat the eggs. In a third bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Coat the Shrimp: Dip each shrimp into the flour, then the egg, and finally the breadcrumb mixture. Press lightly to ensure an even coating.

Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F and preheat for 3 minutes.

Cook the Shrimp: Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Lightly spray them with cooking spray. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Serve: Serve immediately with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips for Making the Best Crispy Air Fryer Shrimp

Don’t overcrowd the basket: Cook the shrimp in batches to ensure even crispiness.

Season the coating well: The flavor is in the details! Don’t skimp on the seasoning in the breadcrumb mixture.

Use fresh shrimp if possible: While frozen shrimp work great, fresh shrimp can take the recipe to the next level.

Reheat in the air fryer: If you have leftovers, reheat them in the air fryer to bring back the crispiness.

Reader Reviews

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “This recipe was a lifesaver on a busy weeknight! My kids loved it, and I loved how quick and easy it was.”

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Perfect for entertaining! I made these for a small gathering, and they were a huge hit. Definitely making them again.”

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Great recipe, but I’ll add a little cayenne next time for an extra kick.”

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “I was skeptical about using an air fryer, but this recipe convinced me. The shrimp turned out so crispy and delicious!”

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Loved the flavor, but my shrimp stuck to the basket a little. Next time, I’ll use more cooking spray.”

Printable Recipe

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