Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe

Hello, seafood lovers! If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or even a special occasion, this Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp recipe is exactly what you need. With a delicious blend of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and lemon pepper, these juicy shrimp are ready in no time and pack a punch of flavor. Whether you’re new to air frying or a seasoned pro, this recipe is a must-try for your collection. Let’s dive into the details!

Introduction

Shrimp is a versatile and beloved seafood that cooks quickly and pairs wonderfully with a variety of flavors. This Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp recipe brings together the savory richness of Parmesan cheese, the zestiness of lemon pepper, and the aromatic touch of garlic for a winning combination. The air fryer ensures the shrimp are perfectly cooked—juicy on the inside and slightly crisp on the outside—without needing a ton of oil. Plus, this dish is as easy as it is delicious, making it perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike.

Ingredients

To make this easy and flavorful Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp, you’ll need:

1 tablespoon olive oil
2 teaspoons lemon pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 bag frozen shrimp (12 oz), thawed, shelled, and deveined
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1/2 cup freshly shredded Parmesan cheese

These simple ingredients combine to create a dish that’s packed with bold flavors and perfect textures.

How to Make Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp

Here’s a step-by-step guide to preparing this delicious dish:

Prepare the Shrimp: Pat dry the shrimp with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This ensures they’ll cook evenly and get a nice texture in the air fryer. Place the shrimp in a medium-sized bowl.
Season the Shrimp: Add the olive oil, lemon pepper, salt, garlic powder, minced garlic, and Parmesan cheese to the bowl. Toss everything together until all the shrimp are evenly coated in the flavorful mixture.
Arrange in the Air Fryer: Place the seasoned shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding the basket, as this can lead to uneven cooking. If necessary, cook the shrimp in batches.
Cook the Shrimp: Set the air fryer to 360°F (182°C) and cook for 10 minutes. At the 5-minute mark, turn the shrimp over to ensure even cooking. The shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque, and the Parmesan coating is golden and slightly crispy.
Serve and Enjoy: Remove the shrimp from the air fryer and serve immediately. Pair them with cocktail sauce, toss them with pasta, or add them to a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Helpful Tips

Choosing Shrimp: For the best results, use large or extra-large shrimp that are already deveined and shelled. This saves prep time and ensures even cooking.
Prepping the Air Fryer: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with nonstick cooking spray or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Cheese Tip: Freshly shredded Parmesan cheese melts better and provides more flavor compared to pre-packaged shredded varieties.

Cooking Tips

Crispier Shrimp: For an extra crispy coating, sprinkle a small amount of breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese over the shrimp before air frying.
Batch Cooking: If you’re cooking for a crowd, keep the cooked shrimp warm in a low oven (around 200°F) while finishing the remaining batches.
Add Heat: For a spicy twist, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper into the seasoning mixture.

Serving Suggestions

Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp is incredibly versatile and can be served in many ways:

With Pasta: Toss the shrimp with cooked pasta, olive oil, and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan for a quick and satisfying dinner.
In Tacos: Use the shrimp as a filling for soft tacos, topped with slaw, avocado, and a drizzle of creamy garlic sauce.
Over Salad: Add the shrimp to a bed of fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing, healthy meal.
As an Appetizer: Serve the shrimp with cocktail sauce, garlic aioli, or a creamy ranch dip for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a look at the nutritional profile of this dish:

Calories: 210 per serving
Protein: 23g
Fat: 9g
Carbohydrates: 2g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 180mg
Sodium: 560mg
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 0g
Vitamin A: 6%
Calcium: 15%
Iron: 5%

This dish is not only flavorful but also a great low-carb, high-protein option that fits into various dietary plans.

Storage and Leftovers

Refrigerate: Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheat: To reheat, place the shrimp back in the air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the shrimp rubbery.

Repurpose: Leftover shrimp can be chopped and added to fried rice, omelets, or seafood chowder for a second delicious meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use fresh shrimp instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh shrimp work wonderfully in this recipe. Simply clean and devein them before use.

What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano are great substitutes for Parmesan, offering a similar texture and flavor.

Can I cook the shrimp without thawing?
It’s best to thaw the shrimp first for even cooking and to ensure the seasoning sticks properly.

What other seasonings can I add?
Feel free to experiment with Old Bay seasoning, Cajun spices, or Italian herbs for different flavor profiles.

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Conclusion

This Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp recipe is a fantastic addition to any home cook’s repertoire. With minimal prep and quick cooking time, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, parties, or even meal prep. The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and perfectly cooked shrimp is a crowd-pleaser that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Give it a try and see how simple and delicious air fryer cooking can be. Enjoy every bite!