Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.

• Low in Carbs: Naturally low-carb, especially when using grated Parmesan instead of breadcrumbs.

• Versatile: Enjoy as an appetizer, over pasta, in salads, or as a protein-packed snack.

• Crispy Texture: Achieves a crispy exterior without the need for deep frying.

ingredients

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

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off as preferred)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Optional: Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

directions

1. Prepare the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

2. Season: In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, garlic powder, minced garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese. Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss until evenly coated.

3. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and preheat for about 3 minutes.

4. Arrange in Air Fryer: Place the seasoned shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.

5. Cook: Air fry the shrimp at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the shrimp are opaque and slightly golden.

6. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired and serve immediately

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 5 minutes

• Cook time: 8–10 minutes

• Total time: 13–15 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix for a spicy version.

• Cheesy Delight: Top the shrimp with additional grated Parmesan cheese during the last 2 minutes of cooking for an extra cheesy crust.

• Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or thyme into the seasoning mix for added flavor.

• Lemon Zest: Add lemon zest to the seasoning mix for an extra burst of citrus flavor.

storage/reheating

• Storage: Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 300°F (150°C) for 3–4 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, but ensure the shrimp are fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning.

2. Do I need to peel the shrimp?

Peeling is optional; leaving the tails on can add a decorative touch, but peeling makes for easier eating.

3. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, but reduce the cooking time by half to avoid overcooking.

4. How do I know when the shrimp are done?

Shrimp are cooked when they turn opaque and form a “C” shape.

5. Can I make this recipe without Parmesan cheese?

Yes, you can omit the cheese for a lighter version, but it will lack the signature flavor and crispiness.

6. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, Asiago or Pecorino Romano can be used as alternatives to Parmesan.

7. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, when using grated Parmesan cheese instead of breadcrumbs.

8. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but cook the shrimp in batches to ensure they cook evenly.

9. Can I use a different oil?

Yes, avocado or melted butter can be used as alternatives to olive oil.

10. Can I add vegetables to the air fryer with the shrimp?

Yes, but ensure the vegetables have similar cooking times and are cut into uniform pieces.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp is a quick, flavorful, and versatile dish that brings the rich flavors of garlic and Parmesan to succulent shrimp. Whether served as an appetizer, over pasta, or in a salad, this dish is sure to impress with its crispy texture and savory taste.