Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe

If you are craving a quick, flavorful, and irresistibly crispy seafood treat, this Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe is going to become your new go-to. Juicy shrimp coated in a garlicky, cheesy crust, cooked to perfection in the air fryer, means you get that lovely crunch and tender bite without any hassle or mess. Whether you’re whipping up a weeknight dinner or entertaining friends, this dish dazzles every time with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward and fresh, each one playing a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of taste, texture, and appearance. The combination is simple yet powerful, transforming ordinary shrimp into a savory delight that’s packed with bold flavor.

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Using raw shrimp ensures the flavors soak in and the texture turns juicy and tender during cooking.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps the seasonings stick while adding richness and promoting that golden finish.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic infuses the shrimp with its signature pungent and aromatic warmth.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a subtle smoky flavor and a gorgeous rosy hue to the shrimp.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors and seasons the shrimp just right.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Offers a gentle kick of spice for depth without overpowering the dish.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Provides a savory, nutty crust that crisps beautifully in the air fryer.
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Fresh herbs add a pop of color and brighten the overall flavor on the plate.
• Lemon wedges: The perfect finishing touch to bring a burst of citrusy freshness.

How to Make Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This step ensures that your shrimp will cook evenly and develop that coveted crispy exterior right from the moment they hit the basket.

Step 2: Season the Shrimp

In a mixing bowl, combine your peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Give everything a good toss so each shrimp is well-coated with the flavorful mixture. This seasoning foundation is what elevates the shrimp from simple to sensational.

Step 3: Add the Parmesan

Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the seasoned shrimp, then gently toss again to surround each piece with cheesy goodness. The Parmesan not only adds taste but also creates a crispy crust that is utterly addictive once air fried.

Step 4: Prepare the Air Fryer Basket

Lightly spray your air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Since Parmesan can get melty and sticky, this simple trick helps keep cleanup to a minimum and your shrimp perfect.

Step 5: Cook the Shrimp

Place the shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Depending on how many you have, you might need to cook in batches for the best results. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure that every morsel crisps up evenly and cooks through.

Step 6: Finish and Garnish

When the shrimp are cooked until golden and just opaque, carefully remove them from the air fryer and transfer to a serving plate. Garnish generously with fresh chopped parsley and serve alongside zesty lemon wedges to brighten each bite.

How to Serve Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh parsley isn’t just for looks; it adds a subtle herbal lift that complements the rich garlic and Parmesan beautifully. A squeeze of lemon brightens and balances the flavors, making every bite pop with freshness. Adding extra lemon wedges on the side invites guests to customize the citrus zing to their liking.

Side Dishes

This shrimp pairs wonderfully with light salads, crusty bread, or even a bed of fluffy rice or pasta to soak up the garlic Parmesan juices. Roasted vegetables or steamed green beans are lovely with the dish if you want a wholesome, colorful meal. The versatility means it slides seamlessly into casual dinners or more elegant spreads.

Creative Ways to Present

For a crowd-pleaser, serve your Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe skewered for fun, easy-to-eat bites. You could also toss the shrimp into a fresh pasta or atop freshly toasted baguette slices for a rustic appetizer. Turning these bites into taco fillings with avocado and slaw is another delicious way to mix things up.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover shrimp should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and eaten within 2 days for the best flavor and texture. While they might lose a bit of crispness, the juicy garlic Parmesan notes remain delightful.

Freezing

If you want to freeze the shrimp, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Properly frozen shrimp maintain their quality for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating to preserve texture.

Reheating

To reheat, pop the shrimp back into the air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes, just until warmed through and crisp again. This method helps revive their delicious crunch better than a microwave or stovetop reheating.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp in this Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe?

It’s best to stick with raw shrimp because pre-cooked shrimp won’t develop the same crispy texture and can become rubbery when cooked in the air fryer. Raw shrimp absorb the seasoning better and cook evenly.

How do I prevent the shrimp from sticking to the air fryer basket?

Lightly spraying the basket with cooking spray before placing the shrimp makes a huge difference. This step helps avoid sticking, especially with the melted Parmesan, which can get sticky as it crisps.

What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese if I don’t have any?

Pecorino Romano works nicely as a substitute for Parmesan and offers a slightly sharper flavor. Avoid pre-grated or processed cheese blends, as they won’t crisp the same way when air fried.

How do I make sure the shrimp stays juicy and doesn’t dry out?

Don’t overcook the shrimp. Cooking for 6 to 8 minutes and shaking halfway ensures they cook evenly without turning rubbery. Also, tossing them in olive oil before seasoning locks in moisture and helps crisp the outside.

Can I double the recipe for a larger group?

Absolutely! Just cook the shrimp in batches so they’re not crowded in the air fryer basket. Crowding can cause steaming instead of crisping, which changes the texture you want for this recipe.

Final Thoughts

This Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe is a game-changer for anyone who loves a speedy, flavorful seafood dish that feels a little special without fuss. The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and spices nestled on perfectly cooked shrimp makes every bite seriously satisfying. Do yourself a favor and try this recipe soon—you’ll wonder how you ever made shrimp any other way!

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