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Are you ready to whip up a quick, tasty dish? Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Shrimp is your answer! This easy recipe is packed with flavor and takes just minutes to make. With juicy shrimp coated in garlic, olive oil, and rich Parmesan cheese, you will wow friends and family. Plus, it’s perfect for busy nights or easy entertaining. Let’s dive into the simple steps to create this delightful meal!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 20 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
- Flavorful Combination: The garlic and Parmesan create a deliciously rich flavor that enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp.
- Healthy Cooking Method: Using an air fryer allows you to enjoy crispy shrimp with less oil, making it a healthier option.
- Versatile Dish: Serve these shrimp as an appetizer, over pasta, or in a salad for a versatile meal option.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 pound large shrimp
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasoning Ingredients
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish and Serving
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley
– Lemon wedges
To make Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Shrimp, you start with fresh shrimp. I prefer large shrimp for this dish. You need one pound of shrimp. You also need three tablespoons of olive oil. Olive oil adds richness and helps the flavors blend well.
Next, garlic is key. Use four cloves of garlic, minced. It gives a strong, tasty kick. For seasoning, you need one teaspoon of paprika. This spice adds warmth. One teaspoon of onion powder gives more depth. Then add half a teaspoon of salt and a quarter teaspoon of black pepper to balance it out.
For a cheesy touch, you will need half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese. This will coat the shrimp and create a nice crust when cooked.
For garnishing, chop two tablespoons of fresh parsley. This adds color and freshness. Lastly, lemon wedges are great for serving. They bring a zesty taste that brightens the shrimp.
Now you have everything you need for this dish. Each ingredient plays a part in making it delicious and easy.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Marinade
First, grab a large bowl. Combine 3 tablespoons of olive oil and 4 minced garlic cloves. Stir well to mix. Next, add 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. This blend makes a tasty marinade.
Marinate the Shrimp
Now, add 1 pound of large shrimp to the bowl. Toss them in the marinade until they are well coated. Cover the bowl and let it sit for 15-20 minutes. This helps the shrimp absorb all the yummy flavors.
Cook in the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. After marinating, sprinkle 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese over the shrimp. Toss them gently to ensure the cheese sticks to the shrimp. Place the shrimp in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are in a single layer to cook evenly. Cook for 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. The shrimp should turn opaque and golden. Once done, remove them carefully and sprinkle with 2 tablespoons of chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Serve with lemon wedges for that extra zing!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Flavor
To make your shrimp shine, try adjusting the spices. You can add more paprika for heat or more garlic for a stronger flavor. If you like a bit of zest, squeeze some lemon juice into the marinade. Marinating for 15-20 minutes gives the shrimp time to soak up the flavors. If you plan to marinate longer, keep it in the fridge to stay fresh.
Air Fryer Tips
Never overcrowd the air fryer basket. This step is key for even cooking. If you pile the shrimp, they won’t crisp up well. For larger shrimp, you may need to cook them a bit longer. Check for a nice golden color and ensure they are opaque.
Serving Suggestions
Garlic Parmesan air fryer shrimp pairs well with many sides. Serve it with rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal. You can also add a dip, like a garlic aioli or a spicy sauce, for extra flavor. Lemon wedges on the side make a perfect bright touch!
Pro Tips
- Fresh Shrimp is Key: Always use the freshest shrimp available for the best flavor and texture. Look for shrimp that are firm and have a mild sea smell.
- Don’t Skip the Marinade: Allowing the shrimp to marinate for at least 15-20 minutes enhances the flavors deeply, making every bite more delicious.
- Adjust Cooking Time: Cooking times may vary based on the size of the shrimp and the air fryer model. Keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.
- Serve with Fresh Sides: Pair your garlic Parmesan shrimp with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete and healthy meal.

Variations
Flavor Variations
You can spice up your Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Shrimp in fun ways. Adding chili flakes brings heat to your dish. Just a pinch will do if you like mild heat. For cheese lovers, you can switch out Parmesan for Romano or Asiago. Both cheeses add a rich flavor twist.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you run out of olive oil, try using avocado oil or melted butter. They both work well and give great taste. Using frozen shrimp is another option. Just thaw them in cold water before marinating. This saves time and makes meal prep easier.
Cooking Methods
You don’t have to stick to just the air fryer. You can bake the shrimp in the oven too. Just place them on a baking sheet, sprinkle with cheese, and bake at 400°F for about 10-12 minutes. If you prefer cooking on the stovetop, use a skillet. Heat some oil, add the marinated shrimp, and cook for about 5-7 minutes. This gives you a nice sear and a tasty meal.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To store leftovers, place shrimp in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge. It stays fresh for up to three days. For reheating, use the air fryer or a skillet. Heat at a low setting until warm. Avoid the microwave if you can. It can make the shrimp rubbery.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze cooked shrimp, let it cool first. Then, place it in a freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. Cooked shrimp can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw shrimp in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the air fryer for best results. This helps keep the shrimp crispy.
Shelf Life
Cooked shrimp stays fresh for a few days in the fridge. Look for signs of spoilage. If it smells off or looks slimy, toss it out. Always check before eating. Fresh shrimp should be firm and have a mild smell. Enjoy your Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Shrimp safely!
FAQs
How long do I need to marinate the shrimp?
You should marinate the shrimp for about 15 to 20 minutes. This time helps the shrimp soak up the flavors from the marinade. If you let them sit longer, they can taste even better.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just remember to thaw them first. You can place them in cold water for quick thawing. After thawing, pat them dry before marinating. This helps the marinade stick better.
What sides go well with Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Shrimp?
This shrimp pairs well with many sides. Here are some great options:
– Steamed rice
– Garlic bread
– Roasted veggies
– A fresh salad
These sides balance the rich flavors of the shrimp.
How do I know when shrimp is fully cooked?
Shrimp are done when they turn opaque and curl into a C shape. This usually takes about 6 to 8 minutes in the air fryer. You can also check the internal temperature, which should be 120°F (49°C).
Can I make this recipe without an air fryer?
Yes, you can! You can bake the shrimp in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10 to 12 minutes. Just spread them out on a baking sheet. This method also works well for achieving a nice texture.
This blog post shared a simple and tasty Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Shrimp recipe. You learned about key ingredients, step-by-step cooking instructions, and useful tips for the best flavor. I also discussed variations and storage options.
Overall, this dish is quick, easy, and full of flavor. You can impress friends and family with this meal. Enjoy your cooking and the delicious result
Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Shrimp
A delicious and easy recipe for shrimp cooked in an air fryer, coated in garlic and Parmesan cheese.
Prep Time 20 minutes mins
Cook Time 8 minutes mins
Total Time 30 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 250 kcal
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- none Lemon wedges (for serving)
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a marinade.
Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss until all shrimp are evenly coated. Let it marinate for about 15-20 minutes to enhance the flavor.
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
After the shrimp has marinated, add the grated Parmesan cheese to the bowl and toss gently, ensuring each shrimp is coated with cheese.
Place the shrimp in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure not to overcrowd the basket to ensure optimal cooking.
Cook the shrimp in the air fryer for 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. Cook until the shrimp are opaque and slightly golden.
Once cooked, carefully remove the shrimp from the air fryer, and sprinkle chopped parsley on top for garnish.
Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for an added zesty flavor.
Serve with lemon wedges for added flavor.
Keyword air fryer, garlic, Parmesan, shrimp
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