This Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp recipe combines tender, juicy shrimp with the irresistible flavors of garlic and Parmesan cheese. It’s quick to prepare, making it an excellent choice for appetizers or a delightful main course served over pasta. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish is sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and just 8 minutes of cooking, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
- Flavor-Packed: The combination of garlic and Parmesan creates a savory experience that elevates shrimp to new heights.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it as an appetizer or toss it with pasta for a hearty main course.
- Healthy Choice: Using the air fryer reduces excess oil while keeping the shrimp tender and flavorful.
- Impressive Presentation: Garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges, this dish looks elegant on any table.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your preparation.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowl
- Cooking spray
- Serving platter
Importance of Each Tool
- Air fryer: This tool cooks the shrimp evenly while using less oil than traditional frying methods.
- Mixing bowl: A good-sized bowl allows you to mix all ingredients thoroughly, ensuring even flavor distribution.
- Cooking spray: Prevents sticking in the air fryer basket, making cleanup easier.
- Serving platter: Enhances presentation when serving your delicious Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp.

Ingredients
To make this Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp dish, gather the following ingredients:
For the Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (Make sure to use raw shrimp for this recipe; pre-cooked shrimp will not work well.)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (Adjust the amount of garlic according to your taste preference.)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (For garnish.)
- lemon wedges (For serving.)
How to Make Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp
Follow these steps to create your flavorful dish:
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This ensures that your shrimp cook evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. The peeled and deveined shrimp,
2. Olive oil,
3. Minced garlic,
4. Paprika,
5. Salt,
6. Black pepper.
Mix well until the shrimp are evenly coated in this flavorful blend.
Step 3: Add Parmesan Cheese
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the shrimp mixture. Toss gently to ensure all shrimp are coated thoroughly.
Step 4: Prepare the Air Fryer Basket
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. This will help prevent sticking during cooking.
Step 5: Cook the Shrimp
Place the shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Depending on your air fryer’s size, you may need to cook them in batches. Cook for 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through until they are cooked through and golden in color.
Step 6: Serve Your Dish
Once cooked, carefully remove the shrimp from the air fryer and transfer them to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for an added zing!
Enjoy your delightful Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp!
How to Serve Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp
Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp is a delicious dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or incorporating it into a main course, these serving suggestions will enhance the experience.
As an Appetizer
- Serve the shrimp warm with toothpicks for easy eating at parties.
- Pair with a zesty dipping sauce like marinara or aioli to elevate flavor.
Over Pasta
- Toss the cooked shrimp over a bed of spaghetti or fettuccine for a hearty meal.
- Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice to add freshness.
In Tacos
- Fill soft corn tortillas with shrimp, avocado, and fresh salsa for a tasty twist.
- Top with shredded cabbage for added crunch.
With Salad
- Mix the shrimp into a fresh green salad featuring mixed greens and cherry tomatoes.
- Add a light vinaigrette to complement the flavors of the shrimp.
How to Perfect Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp
For the best results when making Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp, follow these tips to ensure perfect cooking every time.
- Use raw shrimp: Pre-cooked shrimp will not absorb flavors and may become rubbery when reheated.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket: Cooking in batches helps achieve even cooking and crispiness.
- Adjust cooking time: Depending on the size of your shrimp, you may need to tweak the cooking duration slightly.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to add chili flakes or herbs for extra flavor.
- Let them rest briefly: Allowing cooked shrimp to sit for a minute can enhance their juiciness.
Best Side Dishes for Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp
Pairing side dishes with your Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:
- Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread complements the shrimp beautifully and makes for great dipping.
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crispness and creaminess that pairs well with the savory shrimp.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition without overpowering flavors.
- Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa pilaf infused with herbs offers a nutty flavor that enhances the dish nicely.
- Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables adds depth and complements the garlic parmesan notes.
- Rice Pilaf: Flavored rice pilaf provides a hearty base that soaks up juices from the shrimp.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings brightness and crunch, balancing out the richness of the dish.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide comfort food vibes that pair well with shrimp’s texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.
- Using Pre-Cooked Shrimp: Pre-cooked shrimp can become rubbery and tough when air-fried. Always use raw shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
- Skipping the Marinade: Some may skip marinating the shrimp for a short time. This step helps infuse the garlic and spices thoroughly, enhancing the overall taste.
- Overcrowding the Air Fryer: Cooking too many shrimp at once can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure to arrange them in a single layer for optimal results.
- Not Preheating the Air Fryer: Failing to preheat can result in longer cooking times and less crispy shrimp. Always preheat for about 5 minutes before adding your shrimp.
- Ignoring Cook Time: Overcooking shrimp can make them tough. Keep an eye on them and cook until they are just pink and opaque, usually around 6-8 minutes.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to 2 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp
- Place cooled shrimp in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat the shrimp on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to prevent overcooking.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and toss the shrimp until heated through, which takes about 3-5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but it’s best to thaw them first for even cooking.
What can I serve with Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp?
This dish pairs well with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad. You could also serve it as an appetizer at parties.
How do I customize my Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp?
Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs, such as oregano or chili flakes, for extra flavor.
How do I know when my shrimp are done?
Shrimp are properly cooked when they turn pink and opaque. A quick check should confirm they aren’t rubbery.
Final Thoughts
Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. Whether served as an appetizer or over pasta, this dish promises delightful flavors. Feel free to customize it with your favorite spices or side dishes!
Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp, a quick and easy dish that brings together juicy shrimp and the aromatic combination of garlic and Parmesan cheese. This simple recipe allows you to whip up an impressive appetizer or a satisfying main course over pasta in no time. Perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet night in, these succulent shrimp are sure to become a favorite!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine shrimp, olive oil, garlic, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until shrimp are coated.
- Add the Parmesan cheese and gently toss to coat all shrimp evenly.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place shrimp in a single layer; you may need to cook in batches.
- Cook for 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through until shrimp are golden and cooked through.
- Serve immediately on a platter, garnished with parsley and lemon wedges.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 175mg



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