Air Fryer Hooter’s Buffalo Shrimp

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The combination of the air fryer’s ability to crisp the shrimp without deep frying and the bold buffalo sauce makes this recipe irresistible. It’s a healthier alternative to the traditional deep-fried version, but the flavor and crunch are just as satisfying. The shrimp are perfectly seasoned, crispy on the outside, and juicy on the inside, all coated in a mouthwatering buffalo sauce. Whether you’re preparing it for a gathering or just a simple snack, this buffalo shrimp will surely become a favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup of all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup of breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil spray
• 1/3 cup of buffalo sauce
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the shrimp: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
2. Make the coating: In a shallow bowl, combine flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, beat the eggs. In a third bowl, place the breadcrumbs.
3. Coat the shrimp: Dip each shrimp into the flour mixture, then the egg wash, and finally coat with breadcrumbs. Press down slightly to ensure the breadcrumbs stick.
4. Air fry the shrimp: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the basket, making sure they aren’t overcrowded. Spray the shrimp lightly with more olive oil. Air fry at 400°F for 7-8 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, shaking the basket halfway through.
5. Make the buffalo sauce: While the shrimp are cooking, combine buffalo sauce and melted butter in a small bowl. Stir until well combined.
6. Toss the shrimp in sauce: Once the shrimp are crispy and cooked, remove them from the air fryer and toss them in the buffalo sauce until fully coated.
7. Serve: Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch or blue cheese, and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 minutes
• Total Time: 18 minutes

Variations

• Spicy: Add a few dashes of hot sauce to the buffalo sauce if you like it even spicier.
• Crispy Option: For an extra crispy coating, double-dip the shrimp in the flour and breadcrumbs before air frying.
• Alternative Sauces: If you prefer a different flavor, you can swap out buffalo sauce for BBQ sauce or honey garlic sauce for a sweeter twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: To keep the shrimp crispy, reheat them in the air fryer at 375°F for 3-4 minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the shrimp soggy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them fully and pat them dry before preparing them.

How do I make these shrimp less spicy?

To make the shrimp less spicy, reduce the amount of buffalo sauce and replace it with a milder sauce or even a combination of ranch dressing and hot sauce for a more balanced flavor.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can bread the shrimp ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before air frying them.

Can I use shrimp with the shell on?

For this recipe, it’s best to use peeled and deveined shrimp to get a nice coating and to make eating easier. You can use shrimp with shells on, but they might not cook as evenly.

Can I make this recipe in a regular oven instead of an air fryer?

Yes, you can bake the shrimp at 425°F for 12-15 minutes on a lined baking sheet, flipping halfway through for even cooking.

Can I use a different type of oil spray?

Yes, you can use any cooking oil spray, such as avocado oil or canola oil, if you prefer.

How do I know when the shrimp are done cooking?

The shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque. The coating should be golden and crispy, and the internal temperature of the shrimp should reach 120°F.

Can I double the recipe for a bigger batch?

Yes, just be sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket. You may need to cook the shrimp in batches to ensure they cook evenly.

What can I serve with Air Fryer Buffalo Shrimp?

This dish goes great with celery sticks, carrot sticks, or a side of creamy dip like ranch or blue cheese dressing.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs in place of the traditional ones.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Hooter’s Buffalo Shrimp is the perfect balance of crispy, spicy, and flavorful. This quick and easy recipe allows you to enjoy a healthier version of your favorite buffalo shrimp without compromising on taste. Whether for a snack, party appetizer, or dinner, these shrimp are guaranteed to be a hit. So, fire up your air fryer, and let the crispy buffalo goodness begin!

Air Fryer Hooter’s Buffalo Shrimp

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Air Fryer Hooter’s Buffalo Shrimp is a healthier and quicker version of the classic buffalo shrimp, made with crispy breaded shrimp and a spicy buffalo sauce. Perfect for a snack, appetizer, or casual dinner.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 minutes
• Total Time: 18 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Air Frying
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

1. For the Shrimp:
2. 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined
3. 1 cup of all-purpose flour
4. 1 teaspoon garlic powder
5. 1 teaspoon paprika
6. ½ teaspoon salt
7. ½ teaspoon black pepper
8. 2 large eggs
9. 1 cup of breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
10. 1 tablespoon olive oil spray
11. For the Buffalo Sauce:
12. 1/3 cup of buffalo sauce
13. 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted

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Instructions

Prepare the shrimp: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.

1. Make the coating: In a shallow bowl, combine flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, beat the eggs. In a third bowl, place the breadcrumbs.
2. Coat the shrimp: Dip each shrimp into the flour mixture, then the egg wash, and finally coat with breadcrumbs. Press down slightly to ensure the breadcrumbs stick.
3. Air fry the shrimp: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer, making sure they aren’t overcrowded. Spray the shrimp lightly with more olive oil. Air fry at 400°F for 7-8 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, shaking the basket halfway through.
4. Make the buffalo sauce: While the shrimp are cooking, combine buffalo sauce and melted butter in a small bowl. Stir until well combined.
5. Toss the shrimp in sauce: Once the shrimp are crispy and cooked, remove them from the air fryer and toss them in the buffalo sauce until fully coated.
6. Serve: Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch or blue cheese, and enjoy!

Notes

• If you want an extra crispy coating, double-dip the shrimp in the flour and breadcrumbs before air frying.
• If you prefer a milder taste, reduce the amount of buffalo sauce and mix with ranch dressing.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4 shrimp
• Calories: 240
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 115mg