Name: Savor Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp in Just 18 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 18 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Large Raw Shrimp (Peeled and deveined); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Swap for avocado oil if desired); 3 cloves Minced Garlic (Fresh is best, but garlic powder works); 1 teaspoon Paprika (Smoked paprika elevates flavor); 1 teaspoon Salt (Adjust according to dietary needs); 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper (Freshly cracked for best flavor); 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (Nutritional yeast can substitute for dairy-free); 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (Chopped); 2 pieces Lemon Wedges

As I scrolled through my favorite recipes, a familiar craving hit—a dish that perfectly marries gourmet flair with comfort food simplicity. Enter the Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp, a delightful blend of savory garlic and rich cheese enveloping tender shrimp in just 18 minutes! This low-calorie gem is not only a feast for the eyes but a versatile delight, whether served as an elegant appetizer or over a bed of pasta for a cozy main course. The best part? It’s a total crowd-pleaser that brings restaurant-quality flavors straight to your home on even the busiest weeknights. What’s your favorite way to enjoy shrimp?

Why is this shrimp recipe a must-try?

Quick Preparation: In just 18 minutes, you can indulge in this flavorful dish, making it perfect for busy nights.

Savory Flavor: The garlic and Parmesan combination delivers a taste that’s absolutely irresistible, sure to impress family and friends alike.

Versatile Serving Options: Serve as a sophisticated appetizer or toss with your favorite pasta for a delicious main course. Need more inspiration? Check out my Shrimp Pasta Comforting.

Guilt-Free Indulgence: With its low-calorie profile, you can enjoy this shrimp without any guilt, making it a fantastic choice for health-conscious eaters.

Effortless Clean-Up: Utilizing the air fryer means less mess and easier cleanup, allowing you to savor every moment without the hassle.

Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Ingredients

• Get ready to make this delicious dish with these simple ingredients that pack a punch!

For the Shrimp
Large Raw Shrimp – Opt for peeled and deveined to ease the prep and maximize flavor absorption.
For the Coating
Olive Oil – Adds richness; swap for avocado oil if you desire a different flair.
Minced Garlic – Key for that savory note; fresh is best, but garlic powder works in a pinch.
Paprika – Provides warmth and color; smoked paprika elevates the flavor profile.
Salt – Use to enhance flavors; adjust according to your dietary needs.
Black Pepper – Freshly cracked pepper gives a lovely kick of heat.
Grated Parmesan Cheese – For a rich, cheesy crust; nutritional yeast can substitute for a dairy-free option.
For Garnish
Fresh Parsley – Brightens the dish with color and freshness; basil can be swapped for a unique twist.
Lemon Wedges – Adds a zesty brightness when served, enhancing the overall flavor.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for approximately 5 minutes. This crucial step ensures the Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp is cooked evenly and achieves that crispy texture we all love. As the air fryer heats, it creates the ideal cooking environment for the shrimp to cook quickly and thoroughly.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp Mixture
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, add your peeled and deveined shrimp along with olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Using a spatula or your hands, toss the shrimp until they are evenly coated with all the seasonings, which should look glistening and aromatic. This step allows the shrimp to absorb the rich flavors before heading to the air fryer.

Step 3: Add Parmesan Cheese
Next, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the seasoned shrimp in the bowl. Toss everything together again until the shrimp are completely covered with the cheesy coating. The cheese will help to create that delicious crispiness when the Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp cooks. You want each piece to be well-coated for maximum flavor.

Step 4: Prepare the Air Fryer Basket
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. This simple addition makes cleanup easier and allows the shrimp to cook uniformly without clumping together. Make sure the basket is ready to receive the succulent shrimp, ensuring they can crisp up beautifully.

Step 5: Arrange the Shrimp
Place the seasoned shrimp in a single layer within the air fryer basket. If necessary, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can affect the crispiness. Spread them out so that each shrimp has enough air circulation, ensuring they cook evenly and turn golden brown.

Step 6: Cook the Shrimp
Air fry the shrimp at 400°F (200°C) for 6-8 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, shake the basket gently to ensure the shrimp cooks evenly on all sides. You’ll know they’re done when the shrimp turn golden and firm to the touch, bursting with flavor.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Once cooked, carefully transfer the Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor. Serve with lemon wedges on the side to squeeze over the shrimp, enhancing the taste with a bright, citrusy finish. Enjoy this delectable dish at your table!

Make Ahead Options

These Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season and marinate the shrimp up to 24 hours in advance, allowing them to absorb the delightful flavors. Simply combine the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and black pepper, and refrigerate in an airtight container. When you’re ready to cook, toss the shrimp with grated Parmesan cheese, and air fry as directed. This prep-ahead technique not only saves time on busy weeknights but also guarantees just as delicious results, bringing all the savory goodness to your table with minimal effort!

Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Variations

Feel free to sprinkle your own creativity into this recipe, creating a personalized twist that excites your taste buds!

Protein Swap: Try chicken pieces or tofu instead of shrimp for a different protein option, keeping all flavors intact.
Veggie Boost: Add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini into the air fryer for a vibrant, multi-ingredient dish bursting with color.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the seasoning for a bit of heat that will get your taste buds dancing!
Herb Twists: Swap fresh parsley for basil or even thyme, adding layers of flavor to this delightful dish that can take you from simple to gourmet in no time.
Dairy-Free Delight: Use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan cheese for a vegan-friendly option that maintains a savory, cheesy flavor.
Saucy Variation: Toss the finished shrimp in a light butter sauce or a drizzle of lemon garlic sauce for an extra indulgence. It pairs beautifully with a side of pasta!
Crunchy Texture: Add panko breadcrumbs to the Parmesan coating for an extra crispy crunch that makes each bite delightful.

If you’re craving more shrimp goodness, don’t forget to check out my Bang Bang Shrimp for an exciting, playful take.

Expert Tips for Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp

Thaw Properly: Ensure shrimp are fully thawed for even cooking. Cooking frozen shrimp can lead to uneven textures and flavors.
Optimal Cooking Time: Check your air fryer’s manual for cooking times, as they can vary by model. Adjust as needed to ensure perfectly cooked shrimp.
Avoid Overcrowding: Cooking shrimp in a single layer is key for crispiness. Batch cook if needed, as overcrowding may result in steaming instead of frying.
Customize the Heat: If you love a little spice, add cayenne pepper for an extra kick! Experiment with your spice level to match your taste preferences.
Garnish for Flavor: Don’t skip the lemon wedges! A squeeze of fresh lemon elevates the dish and complements the savory flavors of the Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp beautifully.

How to Store and Freeze Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the shrimp in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to 2 months; remember to label the bag with the date!
Reheating: To reheat, simply place the frozen shrimp in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again.
Thawing: If you’re reheating from frozen, thaw shrimp overnight in the fridge before cooking, ensuring they retain their juicy texture without losing flavor.

What to Serve with Quick Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp

Create a perfect meal around this flavorful delight and elevate your dining experience.

Creamy Risotto: The rich creaminess of risotto balances the shrimp’s savory crunch, making each bite heavenly. Pair with some fresh herbs to enhance the flavor.
Garlic Bread: This classic side complements the shrimp beautifully, allowing you to soak up those delicious juices. Its crispy, buttery texture adds a delightful crunch alongside the tender shrimp.
Zesty Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw provides a bright, crunchy contrast to the savory shrimp. The acidity in the dressing cuts through the richness, keeping every bite exciting.
Citrus Spinach Salad: Packed with fresh spinach, segments of oranges, and a light vinaigrette, this salad brings brightness and freshness. It’s a perfect match for the garlic and Parmesan flavors.
Pasta Primavera: Toss the shrimp with lightly sautéed veggies and your favorite pasta for a vibrant, healthy main course. The pasta provides a wonderful base to showcase the shrimp’s delicious flavors.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp, chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc beautifully complements the shrimp, enhancing the dish’s savory elements. It’s the perfect beverage for a casual meal or gathering.
Lemon Tart: For a sweet finish, serve a zesty lemon tart. Its bright citrus flavor mirrors the shrimp’s lemon wedges, perfecting the meal’s theme.

Building a meal around Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp creates delightful contrasts and complements, turning your dining moment into a culinary experience!

Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe FAQs

What type of shrimp should I use for this recipe?
I recommend using large, raw shrimp that are peeled and deveined. They absorb flavors beautifully and cook evenly, giving you that perfect bite. If you’re in a pinch, frozen shrimp work well too—just ensure they’re fully thawed before cooking.

How can I store leftovers of the Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will help keep the shrimp fresh while allowing you to enjoy the delicious flavors for another day.

Can I freeze the Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the cooked shrimp in a freezer-safe bag, ensuring to remove any excess air. They’ll stay good for up to 2 months. To reheat, pop them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until crispy and hot.

What should I do if my shrimp isn’t cooking evenly?
If your shrimp isn’t cooking evenly, it may be because they’re overcrowded in the air fryer. Be sure to arrange them in a single layer, allowing for proper air circulation. Cooking in smaller batches will help each shrimp achieve that desired golden-brown finish.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can! Instead of using grated Parmesan cheese, substitute it with nutritional yeast. It provides a similar cheesy flavor without the dairy. Just make sure to adjust the amount based on your taste preferences.

Are there any dietary considerations for this dish?
When making Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp, it’s good to check for allergens. If someone is lactose intolerant, substitute the Parmesan cheese. Additionally, ensure no one is allergic to shellfish. As always, if you have pets, avoid sharing any shrimp with them, as some ingredients may not be safe for their consumption.