Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that will impress your family or friends, this Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp is just the ticket! The combination of garlic and Parmesan cheese creates a flavor explosion that perfectly complements tender, juicy shrimp. This dish is not only delightful as an appetizer but also makes a fantastic main course over pasta. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.

I love how easy and fast this shrimp dish comes together. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal that everyone will enjoy. Plus, using the air fryer means less fuss and cleanup, making it perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes just 18 minutes from start to finish, perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves shrimp! This dish is bound to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as an appetizer or over pasta for a hearty main course—it’s great for any meal!
• Healthy Option: Made with wholesome ingredients, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious.
• Flavorful Experience: The garlic and Parmesan create an irresistible taste that will have everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make our Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp. These items are likely already in your kitchen or easy to find at the store.

For the Shrimp

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (Make sure to use raw shrimp for this recipe; pre-cooked shrimp will not work well.)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced (Adjust the amount of garlic according to your taste preference.)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (For garnish.)
• lemon wedges (For serving.)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to experiment and make it your own with these fun variations:

• Swap the protein: If you’re not in the mood for shrimp, try using chicken breast or tofu instead!
• Add some spice: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for an extra kick that will awaken your taste buds.
• Herb it up: Experiment with different herbs like basil or oregano for added flavor depth.
• Cheese alternatives: If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, consider using nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

How to Make Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp

Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer

Preheating your air fryer is important because it helps cook the shrimp evenly and gives them that delightful golden color. Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it warm up for about 5 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp Mixture

In a mixing bowl, toss together your peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and black pepper. It’s crucial to mix well so every shrimp is coated in those wonderful flavors!

Step 3: Add Cheese

Now comes the fun part! Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the shrimp mixture. Gently toss everything again to ensure each piece gets its fair share of cheesy goodness.

Step 4: Arrange in Air Fryer Basket

Lightly spray your air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Then place the shrimp in a single layer inside the basket. This step is key; overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking!

Step 5: Cook Them Up

Cook the shrimp in your air fryer for about 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. This ensures they cook evenly and develop that lovely crisp on all sides.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Once cooked through and beautifully golden, carefully remove the shrimp from the air fryer. Transfer them onto a serving platter, garnish with fresh chopped parsley, and don’t forget those lemon wedges on the side! They add a zesty touch that brightens up every bite.

Enjoy every delicious mouthful of these Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp—you deserve it!

Pro Tips for Making Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp

Cooking shrimp can be a breeze, especially with these handy tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time!

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will give you the best flavor and texture. Frozen shrimp can also work but make sure they’re completely thawed and dry before cooking, as excess moisture can lead to steaming rather than air frying.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Cooking the shrimp in a single layer allows for even cooking and that delightful crispiness. If you have too many shrimp, cook them in batches for the best results.

• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Feel free to tweak the garlic and seasoning levels based on your personal preference. Boosting the garlic or trying different spices can take this dish to new flavor heights!

• Check for Doneness: Shrimp cook quickly! Keep an eye on them towards the end of the cooking time; they should be opaque and firm to the touch when ready. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery.

• Let them Rest: After removing the shrimp from the air fryer, let them sit for a minute or two before serving. This resting period helps enhance their flavor and juiciness.

How to Serve Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp

This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile! Here are some delightful ways to serve up your Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Fresh Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest adds a bright, fresh flavor that complements the richness of the Parmesan.
• Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, a dash of red pepper flakes will bring a kick that pairs beautifully with garlic.
• Extra Parsley: A few extra sprigs of fresh parsley not only add color but also enhance the freshness of the dish.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your shrimp. It’s an Italian classic that everyone loves!

• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad adds crunch and freshness, making for a well-rounded meal. The creaminess of Caesar dressing also balances nicely with the flavors of garlic and Parmesan.

• Zucchini Noodles: For a healthier option, try serving your shrimp over zucchini noodles. They’re light yet satisfying and soak up all those delicious flavors!

• Quinoa Pilaf: A fluffy quinoa pilaf seasoned with herbs is an excellent side that provides protein while keeping your meal gluten-free and filling.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp will be a hit at any gathering or weeknight dinner! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp recipe is not only quick to prepare but also fantastic for meal prep. You can whip up a batch ahead of time, making it a perfect addition to your weekly meal planning.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover shrimp in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Make sure to let the shrimp cool completely before sealing them in the container.

Freezing

• Allow the cooked shrimp to cool completely before freezing.
• Spread them out on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen shrimp to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they will keep for up to three months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 3-5 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated evenly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that may arise while preparing this delightful dish.

Can I use frozen shrimp for Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just be sure to thaw them completely before following the recipe instructions for best results.

How do I ensure my Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp is crispy?

To achieve that perfect crispiness, make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cooking in batches if necessary will help your shrimp cook evenly and get that lovely golden color.

Can I adjust the garlic amount in Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the minced garlic quantity according to your taste preference. If you’re a garlic lover, go ahead and add more!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this wonderful Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp as much as I do! It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion—whether as an appetizer or a main course over pasta. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your own variations! Thank you for stopping by, and happy cooking!