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If youβre looking for a quick, tasty meal, Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Shrimp is your answer. This dish combines fresh shrimp and bold flavors, all cooked to perfection in an air fryer. Whether youβre a busy parent or a cooking newbie, Iβll guide you through easy steps and helpful tips to make this dish shine. Letβs dive into the ingredients and get cooking!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 25 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
- Flavorful Marinade: The combination of garlic, paprika, and Italian seasoning creates a deliciously aromatic marinade that enhances the shrimpβs natural taste.
- Crispy Texture: The air fryer gives the shrimp a wonderfully crispy exterior while keeping them juicy and tender inside.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it as an appetizer, over pasta, or in tacosβthis shrimp dish is versatile and can be paired with many sides.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Shrimp
To make Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Shrimp, youβll need the following main ingredients:
β 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
β 2 tablespoons olive oil
β 4 cloves garlic, minced
β 1 teaspoon paprika
β 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
β Β½ teaspoon salt
β ΒΌ teaspoon black pepper
β Β½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
β 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
β Lemon wedges (for serving)
These ingredients create a tasty mix. The garlic adds punch, while Parmesan gives a rich taste.
Optional Ingredients for Added Flavor
You can also try these optional ingredients for more flavor:
β Red pepper flakes for heat
β Fresh lemon juice for brightness
β A dash of Worcestershire sauce for depth
β Fresh herbs like basil or thyme
These add-ons can make your dish even more exciting. Mix and match based on what you like!
Substitutions for Common Ingredients
If you donβt have some ingredients, here are good substitutions:
β Use shrimp of any size if large ones arenβt available.
β Swap olive oil with avocado oil or melted butter.
β If you lack fresh garlic, use Β½ teaspoon garlic powder.
β Instead of Parmesan, try Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
These swaps help you stay flexible in the kitchen. Donβt be afraid to get creative!

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Marinade
To start, gather your ingredients. In a large bowl, mix two tablespoons of olive oil with four minced garlic cloves. Add one teaspoon of paprika, one teaspoon of Italian seasoning, half a teaspoon of salt, and a quarter teaspoon of black pepper. This mix creates a rich and flavorful marinade that will coat your shrimp well.
Marinating the Shrimp
Next, add one pound of peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl. Toss the shrimp in the marinade until every piece is well coated. This step is crucial. Let the shrimp marinate for about 15 minutes. This waiting time allows the flavors to soak in, making each bite taste amazing.
Cooking in the Air Fryer
Now, preheat your air fryer to 375Β°F (190Β°C). Once itβs hot, place the marinated shrimp in a single layer in the basket. Make sure they are not crowded. Sprinkle half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese over the shrimp. Cook them for about 6-8 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through to ensure they cook evenly. After the time is up, add the remaining Parmesan cheese on top. Cook for an extra 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Once done, carefully transfer the shrimp to a serving platter. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges for a fresh twist.
Tips & Tricks
How to Choose the Best Shrimp
When picking shrimp, look for large, fresh ones. Check for a firm texture and a clean smell. Avoid shrimp with black spots or a strong fishy odor. If you buy frozen shrimp, choose ones that are flash-frozen. This keeps them fresh longer.
Air Fryer Tips for Perfectly Cooked Shrimp
Preheating your air fryer is key. Set it to 375Β°F (190Β°C) before cooking. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer for even cooking. Shake the basket halfway through to help them cook well. Keep an eye on the time; 6-8 minutes is perfect. For extra flavor, add more cheese in the last few minutes.
Flavor Enhancements and Serving Suggestions
To make your shrimp even tastier, try adding a squeeze of lemon juice. This brightens the flavors and adds a fresh touch. You can also mix in some red pepper flakes for spice. Serve with lemon wedges and fresh parsley for a nice look. Pair with a side salad or crusty bread for a full meal.
Pro Tips
- Marinate Longer for Deeper Flavor: For even more flavor, consider marinating the shrimp for 30 minutes to an hour instead of just 15 minutes.
- Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic yields a stronger, more aromatic flavor compared to pre-minced or jarred garlic.
- Donβt Overcrowd the Basket: Ensure the shrimp are in a single layer in the air fryer to allow for even cooking and crisping.
- Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs to the marinade for a unique twist on the classic garlic parmesan flavor.

Variations
Spicy Garlic Parmesan Shrimp
Want to add some heat? Use a tablespoon of red pepper flakes in the marinade. This gives the dish a nice kick. If you love spice, this variation is for you. The heat pairs well with the garlic and cheese. You can adjust the spice level to your taste. Just start with a little and add more if you like.
Garlic Butter Variation
If you love garlic butter, this variation is a must-try. Instead of olive oil, use melted butter in your marinade. Mix in a bit of lemon juice for added flavor. This twist makes the shrimp even richer. You can still add the Parmesan cheese on top. The butter will help it melt beautifully.
Adding Vegetables for a Complete Meal
Want to make it a full meal? Add some veggies to the basket with your shrimp. Bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus work great. Just chop them into small pieces. Toss them in the same marinade as the shrimp. This adds color and nutrition. Plus, it makes cooking easier. You will have a tasty dish all in one go!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Shrimp
To store leftover shrimp, let them cool first. Place them in an airtight container. You can keep them in the fridge for up to two days. Cover them tightly to keep moisture in and flavors fresh. If you have a lot left, you can separate them into smaller portions.
Reheating Tips for Optimal Flavor
When you reheat the shrimp, aim for gentle heat. You can use your air fryer at 350Β°F (175Β°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This method keeps the shrimp crisp and tasty. You can also use a skillet on low heat. Just add a splash of olive oil to avoid drying out the shrimp.
Freezing Guidelines for Air Fryer Shrimp
Freezing is a great option if you have many leftovers. Place the cooled shrimp in a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as you can to prevent freezer burn. They can last for up to three months. To thaw, place them in the fridge overnight before reheating. This way, you will keep the flavor and texture intact.
FAQs
How long does it take to cook shrimp in an air fryer?
It takes about 6 to 8 minutes to cook shrimp in an air fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 375Β°F (190Β°C) before placing the shrimp inside. Cooking time may vary based on shrimp size. Always check if they are pink and opaque.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for this recipe. However, thaw them first for best results. Place them in cold water for about 15 minutes. Once thawed, pat them dry before marinating. This step helps the marinade stick well.
What can I serve with Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Shrimp?
You can serve Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Shrimp with various sides. Here are some tasty options:
β Rice: White or brown rice complements the shrimp well.
β Pasta: A light pasta dish enhances the meal.
β Salad: A fresh green salad adds crunch.
β Vegetables: Roasted or steamed veggies pair nicely.
β Bread: Serve with crusty bread to soak up flavors.
These combinations make for a satisfying meal. Enjoy exploring your options!
Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Shrimp offers a tasty meal thatβs easy to make. We covered key ingredients, simple steps, and helpful tips to ensure success. You can enhance flavors or try fun variations, like spicy options or veggies. Storing leftovers is straightforward, too. With these methods, you can enjoy shrimp any night. Dive in, experiment, and enjoy the flavor! Your kitchen will smell amazin
Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Shrimp
A delicious and easy shrimp recipe made in the air fryer with garlic and Parmesan cheese.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 10 minutes mins
Total Time 25 minutes mins
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- to taste lemon wedges (for serving)
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a marinade.
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl, tossing them until they are well coated with the marinade.
Allow the shrimp to marinate for about 15 minutes to enhance the flavor.
Preheat the air fryer to 375Β°F (190Β°C).
Once preheated, arrange the marinated shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
Sprinkle half of the grated Parmesan cheese over the shrimp.
Cook the shrimp for about 6-8 minutes in the air fryer, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
After the time is up, remove the basket and sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top.
Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the shrimp are cooked through.
Once done, carefully remove the shrimp from the air fryer and transfer them to a serving platter.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
For best results, do not overcrowd the air fryer basket.
Keyword air fryer, garlic, Parmesan, quick meal, shrimp
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