Name: Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Shrimp Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 13 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (raw shrimp recommended); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; Lemon wedges (for serving)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If you adore bold flavors but crave a quick and fuss-free meal, this Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Shrimp Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. Juicy shrimp soaked in garlicky goodness, sprinkled with nutty Parmesan, and perfectly air-fried to achieve that irresistible crispy edge without the mess of deep frying. Every bite bursts with a harmonious blend of savory, tangy, and buttery notes, making it a truly delightful dish to whip up any night of the week. Plus, it’s so easy and quick that you’ll wonder why you didn’t try it sooner!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows three main layers for preparing a shrimp dish, all placed on a white marbled surface. In the top left, peeled raw shrimp are spread out on white paper towels, displaying their translucent gray and light pink colors. Below this, a white bowl holds a yellow beaten egg mixture with visible bubbles and a smooth liquid texture. On the right side, a white plate contains a fine, pale yellow breadcrumb mixture with a slightly grainy texture. The setting is simple, with no extra decorations, focusing on the three ingredients arranged close together. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting started with the Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Shrimp Recipe is simple because the ingredients are wonderfully straightforward, each playing a crucial role in layering the dish with flavor, texture, and a pop of color.

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Raw shrimp absorb the flavors better and cook perfectly in the air fryer.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps the shrimp cook evenly and adds a smooth richness.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic brings that essential punch of aromatic flavor that makes this recipe shine.
1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a warm smoky flavor and a beautiful color to the shrimp.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors without overpowering them.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and complements the garlic perfectly.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: The star ingredient that creates a savory, crispy crust on the shrimp.
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Provides a fresh, bright finish and beautiful contrast.
Lemon wedges: Offer a zesty squeeze that balances the richness of the dish.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Shrimp Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer

Start by setting your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for about 5 minutes. This ensures that the shrimp cook evenly and achieve that perfect crispy texture.

Step 2: Season the Shrimp

Place the peeled and deveined shrimp in a mixing bowl. Add olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together so each shrimp is fully coated with the flavorful marinade, setting the stage for a delicious dish.

Step 3: Add the Parmesan Cheese

Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the shrimp and toss gently. The cheese will develop a golden crust once air-fried, giving a delightful contrast to the tender shrimp inside.

Step 4: Prepare the Air Fryer Basket

Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or a thin layer of oil to prevent sticking. This little step saves you from any frustrating clean-up later.

Step 5: Air Fry the Shrimp

Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket, giving them space to crisp up nicely. Depending on your air fryer’s size, you may need to work in batches for best results.

Step 6: Cook the Shrimp

Cook the shrimp for 6 to 8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. This helps the shrimp cook evenly and promotes an irresistible golden color and crispy exterior.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Carefully transfer the cooked shrimp to a serving platter. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for color and freshness, and don’t forget those lemon wedges to lounge on the side for an extra zing!

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Shrimp Recipe

A white plate filled with several golden-brown fried shrimp, each coated in a crispy breadcrumb layer with a slightly rough texture. The shrimp have a light orange color with the tails showing, and they are sprinkled with small green herb pieces and white grated bits on top. The shrimp are piled closely together, creating an inviting, crunchy look, and the plate sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is the go-to garnish, adding a vibrant green touch and a hint of herbal brightness. A squeeze of lemon juice right before eating beautifully lifts the flavors, cutting through the richness with a lively tartness.

Side Dishes

This recipe pairs wonderfully with a simple crisp salad, garlic bread, or even over a bed of creamy risotto. If you want to keep things light and fresh, steamed veggies or a quinoa salad make for a balanced meal. For a heartier option, toss these shrimp atop pasta with a light olive oil and basil sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the shrimp skewered with a mix of colorful vegetables or place them on toasted baguette slices for an impressive appetizer. Alternatively, toss them into tacos or wraps with fresh slaw and avocado for a handheld treat bursting with flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Shrimp Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 2 days, making for a quick and tasty snack or meal addition.

Freezing

While fresh is best with shrimp, you can freeze cooked shrimp for up to 1 month. Lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. This prevents clumping and makes reheating easier.

Reheating

The best way to reheat is gently in the air fryer again at 350°F for 3-4 minutes, just enough to warm through without drying them out. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that crispy Parmesan crust intact and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp for this recipe?

It’s best to use raw shrimp because pre-cooked shrimp will likely become rubbery and overcooked when air frying. Raw shrimp absorb the seasoning and air fry to a perfect texture.

How long can I store the cooked Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Shrimp?

Store the cooked shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to ensure freshness and food safety.

Is it possible to bake this recipe instead of air frying?

You can bake the shrimp at 400°F for about 8-10 minutes on a baking sheet, but the air fryer provides a quicker cook time and a crispier finish that baking can’t quite achieve.

Can I adjust the amount of garlic to suit my taste?

Absolutely! Adjust the garlic quantity from mild to extra garlicky depending on your preference. This recipe is flexible and forgiving.

What side dishes go best with Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Shrimp Recipe?

Fresh salads, garlic bread, pasta, or steamed vegetables are excellent companions. You can also serve the shrimp over rice or quinoa for a wholesome meal.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the simplicity and flavor combination in this Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Shrimp Recipe. It’s speedy, satisfying, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become a staple in your recipe box for quick, delicious meals that feel a little fancy and a lot comforting.