If there’s one thing I love about Southern cuisine, it’s the way it brings people together over a simple, delicious meal. Air Fryer Shrimp is one of those dishes that has the perfect balance of crispy, flavorful, and oh-so-easy to prepare.
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Growing up, shrimp was a staple in our household—whether fried up for a weekend dinner or added to a festive spread. With the air fryer, it’s even easier to make this Southern favorite, and I’m thrilled to share it with you today.
A Southern food classic
Southern food is more than just a collection of recipes—it’s a way of life, a tradition that carries with it memories of family dinners, church picnics, and days spent on the front porch. I’ve always had a special place in my heart for dishes that bring comfort and nostalgia, like shrimp. My grandmother often made shrimp for family gatherings, and the smell of it cooking was enough to make anyone’s stomach growl in anticipation. It wasn’t just the shrimp that made those meals memorable, though. It was the time spent together, savoring every bite, and telling stories that would live on for generations.
Shrimp, in all its forms, is a cornerstone of Southern cooking. It’s versatile, quick to cook, and always satisfying. Whether you’re enjoying it as a main dish or adding it to a larger spread, shrimp has a way of making any meal feel special. And this Air Fryer Shrimp recipe is no different—it’s a quick and delicious way to enjoy this Southern classic without all the mess of traditional frying.
Ingredients
How to make Air Fryer Shrimp
Making Air Fryer Shrimp is as simple as it is delicious. First, you’ll mix the avocado oil and seasonings together. Then, you’ll toss the shrimp in the mixture to make sure each one is perfectly coated. After letting them marinate for a few minutes, it’s time to cook them in the preheated air fryer.
The shrimp cook quickly—about 5-6 minutes—and come out crispy and tender with the perfect amount of flavor. All you need to do is serve them up with a squeeze of fresh lemon and a sprinkle of parsley, and you’re ready to enjoy!
Serving suggestions
There’s nothing like sharing a meal with loved ones, and Air Fryer Shrimp makes for a great dish to enjoy on its own or alongside other Southern favorites. Serve it with a side of creamy grits, a fresh salad, or maybe even some homemade cornbread.
A little Southern hospitality goes a long way, so make sure to have some extra lemon wedges and chopped parsley on hand for those who like a little extra zing. If you’re feeling really festive, pair it with a cool glass of sweet tea for the ultimate Southern meal.
Storage tips
If you happen to have any leftovers (though I wouldn’t count on it), you can store the shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days.
To reheat, simply place them back in the air fryer for a couple of minutes until they’re heated through and crispy again. You can also reheat them in the oven, but the air fryer works best to keep them nice and crispy.
Southern farewell
Southern food is all about bringing people together, and I hope this Air Fryer Shrimp recipe brings a little taste of Southern comfort into your kitchen. Whether it’s for a casual weeknight dinner or a special family gathering, this dish will always have a place at the table.
I know it’ll be a hit with everyone, just like it was in my own home. Enjoy, y’all, and remember—Southern food tastes best when shared with the ones you love!
Air Fryer Shrimp
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowls
- Tongs
- Measuring cups/spoons
- Non-stick spray or brush
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine the avocado oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well mixed.
- Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl and toss them gently to coat each shrimp evenly with the seasoning mixture. Let the shrimp marinate for about 10 minutes to soak up the flavors.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes. This ensures that the shrimp will cook evenly and get a nice crispy texture.
- Place the seasoned shrimp in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Be sure not to overcrowd them, so they cook evenly.
- Cook the shrimp at 400°F (200°C) for 5-6 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through to make sure the shrimp cook evenly on all sides.
- The shrimp are ready when they turn pink and opaque. If necessary, cook them for an extra minute or two, but be careful not to overcook.
- Carefully remove the shrimp from the air fryer and serve them hot. Squeeze lemon wedges over the shrimp for a burst of freshness and garnish with chopped parsley for a touch of color. Enjoy your delicious Air Fryer Shrimp!
