If you love quick, flavorful meals that come together with minimal fuss, you are going to adore this Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe. It’s a brilliant combination of succulent shrimp tossed in fragrant garlic and nutty Parmesan, all perfectly crisped in the air fryer for a delightful texture. Whether you’re whipping this up for a weeknight dinner or an impressive appetizer for guests, the blend of simple ingredients delivers big on taste without keeping you tied to the stove. The vibrant pop of parsley and zesty lemon wedges at the end only make this dish impossible to resist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each component in this recipe is straightforward but absolutely vital to crafting that irresistible flavor and appealing look. From the punch of garlic to the savory Parmesan and a hint of paprika’s warmth, these ingredients play off each other to make your shrimp sing with every bite.
- 1 pound large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star of the show, providing a juicy, tender base that’s ready to soak up all the flavors.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds subtle richness and helps the garlic and spices adhere to the shrimp perfectly.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the shrimp with that aromatic, flavorful kick that garlic lovers crave.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Offers a mild smoky warmth and a lovely rosy tint to the shrimp’s coating.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances every flavor and balances the seasoning just right.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle bite that keeps things interesting without overwhelming.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a salty, nutty crust that crisps beautifully in the air fryer.
- Fresh parsley for garnish: Provides a fresh, bright contrast and a pop of color to finish the dish.
- Lemon wedges for serving: Offer a zesty brightness to cut through the richness and elevate the overall flavor.
How to Make Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Begin by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This step ensures your shrimp will cook evenly and develop that perfect golden crust right from the start.
Step 2: Marinate the Shrimp
In a mixing bowl, combine the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything well so each shrimp is evenly coated with the fragrant seasoning blend. This simple marination sets the foundation for the dish’s unforgettable flavor.
Step 3: Add the Parmesan Cheese
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the seasoned shrimp, then toss gently again. The cheese clings to the shrimp, ready to transform into a crispy, savory crust during cooking.
Step 4: Prepare the Air Fryer Basket
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking and help the shrimp cook with a flawless finish. This small step makes cleanup a breeze too.
Step 5: Cook the Shrimp
Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded so they crisp up perfectly. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to allow even cooking and golden browning on all sides.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, serve the shrimp immediately while they’re still hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and accompanied by lemon wedges. That final touch adds freshness and a bright zing that just pulls everything together beautifully.
How to Serve Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic garnish choice for this dish, lending a lovely herbal brightness that contrasts so nicely against the rich Parmesan coating. Lemon wedges are more than garnish here; they provide an option for guests to add a tangy splash that elevates each bite. You can also sprinkle a pinch of red chili flakes if you want a subtle heat boost.
Side Dishes
This Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple sides that don’t compete with its bold flavors. Think crisp garden salads, garlic butter pasta, or roasted vegetables. A fluffy rice pilaf or creamy mashed potatoes also balance the dish perfectly, soaking up any leftover garlicky goodness.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your friends? Serve the shrimp atop crispy crostini with a slather of herbed cream cheese, or toss them over a bed of zoodles for a low-carb twist. For a festive touch, thread the shrimp onto skewers and arrange them on a platter with colorful sides and dips. Presentation is a fun way to make this approachable recipe feel extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover shrimp (though it’s rare!), pop them into an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to two days, making a perfect quick snack or addition to salads the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked shrimp too, but for best results, freeze them before cooking. Raw, seasoned shrimp stored in a freezer-safe bag will last for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw them completely before air frying for best texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, place the shrimp back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 2 to 3 minutes. This method keeps the shrimp crispy and prevents them from becoming rubbery the way microwave reheating can.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and pat them dry thoroughly before seasoning to avoid extra moisture that could affect the crisping process.
Is it necessary to peel and devein the shrimp?
Yes, peeling and deveining helps the shrimp cook evenly and makes them more enjoyable to eat. It also allows the garlic and Parmesan coating to stick better to the surface.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Definitely. Adding red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix will give it a delightful kick that complements the garlic and cheese beautifully.
What else can I substitute for Parmesan?
Pecorino Romano works great as a substitute providing a similar salty and nutty flavor. You could also experiment with Asiago cheese for a slightly different but still delicious twist.
How do I know when the shrimp is done cooking in the air fryer?
Shrimp cooks quickly and will turn pink and opaque when done. In your air fryer at 400°F, it usually takes about 6-8 minutes. Overcooking can make them rubbery, so keep an eye on the time.
Final Thoughts
This Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe is one of those dishes you’ll want to keep handy for any occasion. It’s quick, packed with layers of flavor, and has that satisfying crispy texture that’s hard to beat. Give it a try—you might just find your new go-to shrimp recipe that dazzles at dinner and delights every time.
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Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe
- Prep Time: 7 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp recipe delivers a quick, flavorful, and perfectly crispy shrimp dish. Coated with garlic, paprika, and Parmesan cheese, these shrimp cook to golden perfection in just minutes, making it an ideal appetizer or main course for seafood lovers craving an easy yet impressive meal.
Ingredients
Shrimp Marinade
- 1 pound large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Topping and Garnish
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes to ensure it’s hot and ready for cooking.
- Prepare the Shrimp: In a mixing bowl, combine the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss well to coat each shrimp evenly with the seasoning blend.
- Add Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the seasoned shrimp and gently toss again so the cheese sticks to the shrimp without clumping.
- Prepare the Air Fryer Basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Cook the Shrimp: Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook at 400°F for 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking and golden browning on all sides.
- Serve: Remove the shrimp from the air fryer and serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for a bright, fresh finish.
Notes
- Make sure the shrimp are dry before seasoning to ensure crispiness.
- If your air fryer basket is small, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding for best results.
- Adjust cooking time slightly based on shrimp size and air fryer model.
- Use fresh grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-shredded for better melting and flavor.
- This recipe is great served with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
