Go Back

Air Fryer Frozen Shrimp

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Cook Time 10 minutes
Pre-heat 5 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes

Ingredients
  

  • Frozen shrimp: 1 pound, raw, peeled and deveined. Tail-on or tail-off both work.
  • Olive oil or avocado oil: 1 to 1½ tablespoons for light coating.
  • Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon.
  • Paprika or smoked paprika: 1 teaspoon.
  • Salt: ½ to ¾ teaspoon, to taste.
  • Black pepper: ½ teaspoon.
  • Lemon wedges: For serving.
  • Optional add-ins: Red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, Old Bay, or a squeeze of honey for a hint of gloss.

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes. A hot basket helps the shrimp sear fast.
  • Break up any clumps: If your shrimp are stuck together, run the sealed bag under cool water for 30 seconds to loosen. Don’t thaw—just separate.
  • Season in a bowl: Add frozen shrimp, oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat. Some spices will stick better than others—this is fine.
  • Arrange in the basket: Spread the shrimp in a single layer. A little overlap is okay, but avoid a deep pile for best browning.
  • Air fry for 5 minutes. Then open the basket, shake or flip the shrimp, and spread again.
  • Air fry 3–5 more minutes, until shrimp are pink, opaque, and just firm. Total time is typically 8–10 minutes depending on size (medium may be done at 7–8 minutes; large/jumbo at 9–10).
  • Check doneness: Shrimp should form a gentle “C” shape, not a tight “O.” If they’re curling tightly and feel bouncy, they’re overcooked.
  • Finish and serve: Squeeze lemon over the hot shrimp. Adjust salt and add red pepper flakes if you like heat.