Cooking with an air fryer has revolutionized how I approach meal prep, and when I discovered how easy it was to make delicious shrimp from frozen, I was hooked. Air fryer frozen shrimp are not only incredibly quick and convenient but also come out perfectly crispy and tender every single time. Whether you’re a busy professional or just looking for a simple and satisfying meal, this recipe is a must-try!
If you’ve never tried cooking shrimp from frozen in an air fryer, you’re in for a treat. It’s one of the most effortless ways to prepare shrimp without the need for thawing or complicated techniques. In this recipe, we’ll dive into how to cook frozen shrimp with minimal ingredients, resulting in a flavorful and juicy shrimp dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Frozen Shrimp: Frozen shrimp are the star of this dish. I recommend buying peeled and deveined shrimp to save time. They cook quickly, and the air fryer ensures they come out juicy and tender. You can choose any size shrimp, but medium or large works best for this recipe.
Olive Oil: A light spray or drizzle of olive oil will help the shrimp crisp up perfectly. It also adds a rich flavor that complements the shrimp’s natural taste. You can also use other oils like avocado or coconut oil for a different twist.
Garlic Powder: Garlic powder is an essential ingredient that adds a lovely savory depth to the shrimp. It’s one of those pantry staples that infuse the shrimp with a mouthwatering aroma.
Paprika: Paprika gives the shrimp a beautiful color and a subtle smokiness. It also works wonderfully to balance out the richness of the olive oil and garlic.
Salt: Salt enhances the flavor of the shrimp, making it more delicious and helping the other seasonings shine. I suggest using sea salt or kosher salt for the best texture.
Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a mild heat that complements the shrimp perfectly. Adjust the amount according to your spice preference.
Ingredients List
- 1 pound frozen shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
How to Make Air Fryer Frozen Shrimp
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This ensures that the shrimp will cook evenly and get that perfect crispy texture.
Step 2: Season the Shrimp
In a bowl, toss the frozen shrimp with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure all the shrimp are evenly coated. You don’t need to thaw the shrimp beforehand, as the air fryer will handle all the magic of cooking from frozen.
Step 3: Air Fry the Shrimp
Place the seasoned shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook them at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time for even crisping. Keep an eye on the shrimp to make sure they don’t overcook. Once they’re golden and crispy, they’re ready!
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the shrimp from the air fryer and serve immediately. They’re perfect on their own, tossed into a salad, or paired with your favorite dipping sauce. For an extra burst of flavor, squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the top.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- If you’re using extra-large or jumbo shrimp, you may need to adjust the cooking time by a minute or two.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer to ensure they cook evenly and get that crispy texture.
- For added flavor, you can sprinkle the shrimp with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro after cooking.
- Try experimenting with other spices like cayenne pepper for a kick of heat or lemon zest for a citrusy twist.
- If you prefer your shrimp more well-done, add an extra minute of cooking time, but be cautious not to dry them out.
FAQs
Can I use thawed shrimp instead of frozen? Yes, you can use thawed shrimp, but since frozen shrimp cook quickly and retain more moisture, you might notice a slight difference in texture if using thawed shrimp.
Can I cook shrimp from frozen without oil? Yes, you can cook shrimp from frozen without oil, but using a small amount helps achieve that crispy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can skip the oil or use a non-stick spray.
How do I know when my shrimp are done? Shrimp are done when they turn opaque and have a nice pink color. They should also be firm to the touch but still juicy. Be careful not to overcook them as they can become rubbery.
Can I make a larger batch? Absolutely! Just make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket. You may need to cook the shrimp in batches if you’re preparing a larger amount.