Name: Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 18 min
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); as needed lemon wedges (for serving)

I've been messing with my air fryer way too much, and I stumbled upon this Garlic Parmesan Shrimp recipe that turned out unbelievably tasty. The shrimp get coated in garlic and cheese, then they crisp up in minutes without drowning in oil. It’s perfect for nights when you dont wanna spend forever cooking.

For folks tryin to eat healthier, this method is a win. An air fryer uses way less oil than deep frying, so you cut down calories but still get that nice crunch. Shrimp are full of protein and some important vitamins, so it’s both yummy and good for you.

In this guide, I’ll share all the deets on Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp—what you need, how to make it step by step, and a few fun ways to serve it. Whether you’re just starting out or you think you’ve done it all, you might pick up a trick or two. Alright, let’s dive in!

What is Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp?

Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp is a simple seafood dish that turns plain shrimp into a flavor bomb. You toss peeled, deveined shrimp in minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, and a bit of oil, then pop them in the air fryer. The hot air makes them crisp, kinda like frying but without all that grease. The savory garlic and cheese mix perfectly with the shrimp’s natural sweetness, making every bite really pop.

People have loved shrimp for ages in lots of dishes—from spicy curries in Asia to pasta by the Mediterranean. Lately, air fryers have become super popular at home because they give you that golden crunch using way less oil. It’s a new way to cook old favorites, and this shrimp recipe shows exactly why air frying rocks.

Benefits of Cooking Shrimp in an Air Fryer

There’s a bunch of good stuff about air frying shrimp. First, shrimp are low in calories but packed with protein, so they help keep you full without overloading on fat. They also bring in nutrients like vitamin B12, iodine, and selenium, wich your body needs for energy and a healthy immune system.

Then, the air fryer itself is awesome because it needs just a splash of oil, not a whole pot of it. That means fewer calories and less grease. Plus, it cooks shrimp super fast—usually under ten minutes—so you get dinner on the table pronto. And since the hot air flows all around, your shrimp come out evenly cooked and crunchy every time.

Benefits of Cooking Shrimp in an Air Fryer

Another nice thing is cleanup is a breeze. No big greasy pans to scrub—just wipe out the basket and you’re done. An air fryer also uses less energy than heating up a whole oven, so it’s a bit kinder on your electric bill. All in all, if you like crispy shrimp without the mess or calories, this is definately the way to go.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp

To make Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp, you will need:

Fresh shrimp (peeled and deveined)
Garlic (fresh and minced)
Parmesan cheese (grated)
Olive oil
Paprika
Salt and pepper
Fresh parsley (for garnish)

If you want to switch it up, try:

Garlic powder instead of fresh garlic for a faster mix
Asiago or Pecorino Romano cheese for a different cheese taste
Extra spices like cayenne pepper if you like it hot

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation

Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. Dry shrimp crisp up better in the air fryer. Then measure out your minced garlic and grated Parmesan cheese, since you’ll need them ready.

Marinating the Shrimp

In a bowl, mix the minced garlic, olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp and toss until each piece is coated. Let them sit for about 15–20 minutes so the flavors soak in.

Air Frying the Shrimp

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the shrimp in a single layer in the basket, making sure they dont overlap too much. Cook for 6–8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. They’re done when they turn pink and opaque. If you want them extra crispy, add a minute or two, but watch close so they dont get rubbery.

Serving Suggestions

Ideal Pairings

These shrimp go great with:

Garlic bread for a buttery side
Fresh salad to add some crunch
Steamed rice or quinoa to soak up the juices

You can also serve them with sauces like:

Cocktail sauce for that classic zing
Aioli or garlic mayo for creaminess
Lemon butter sauce to brighten things up

Creative Serving Ideas

For something different, try these:

Top a bowl of pasta with the shrimp and drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over it.
Make shrimp tacos with soft tortillas, avocado, and cilantro.
Garnish with parsley and lemon wedges to make it look fancy.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Proper Storage

Keep leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay good for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then move them to a freezer bag once they’re solid. This stops them from sticking together.

Reheating

To bring back the crunch, reheat the shrimp in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 3–4 minutes. Or, you can warm them in a non-stick pan over medium heat, stirring gently. Microwaving works too, but you might lose some crispiness.

FAQs about Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, but it’s best to thaw them in the fridge first so they cook evenly.

How can I know if the shrimp are cooked properly?

They should be pink and opaque. If you want to be sure, aim for an internal temp of 120°F (49°C).

What can I substitute for garlic in this recipe?

Try garlic powder or shallots for a similar flavor, though it’ll taste a bit different.

Is it possible to use other types of shrimp?

Absolutely—you can use large, medium, or small shrimp as long as they’re cleaned and deveined.

How do I add more flavor to the shrimp?

Add a pinch of cayenne for heat, lemon zest for brightness, or herbs like oregano or thyme to mix it up.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp is super versatile and simple, and the mix of juicy shrimp, garlic, and cheese is hard to beat. Give it a try, play around with flavors, and let your friends and family see how awesome air frying can be.