If you’re looking for a quick and flavorful meal that the whole family will love, look no further than this Air Fryer Garlic Butter Shrimp recipe! It’s simple to prepare, bursting with savory aromas, and offers a tender bite that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. The ease of this set-and-forget dish will have you returning to it time and time again. So, are you ready to dive into this delicious sea of flavors? Let’s get cooking!
What Is Air Fryer Garlic Butter Shrimp?
Air Fryer Garlic Butter Shrimp is a quick and delicious dish featuring succulent shrimp tossed in a rich, buttery garlic sauce, then cooked to perfection in an air fryer. This method not only infuses the shrimp with incredible flavors but also keeps them tender and juicy without the need for excess oil. With its roots in both seafood and comfort food, this dish can be served as a delightful dinner or a casual appetizer at gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Garlic Butter Shrimp
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavor-Packed: The garlic butter sauce elevates the shrimp with a rich and savory taste.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices for a personalized twist.
- Budget-Friendly: Shrimp is often affordable and this dish goes a long way in satisfying hungry bellies.
- Family Approved: A dish that appeals to all ages, making mealtime a breeze!
How to Make Air Fryer Garlic Butter Shrimp
Quick Overview
In just a few simple steps, you can whip up a restaurant-quality dish of Air Fryer Garlic Butter Shrimp that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. With a handful of ingredients, this recipe is as easy as it gets!
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined (fresh or frozen)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked or regular)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Juice of half a lemon (optional)
Directions
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the shrimp: In a mixing bowl, combine peeled and deveined shrimp with melted butter, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Toss well: Ensure all the shrimp are evenly coated in the garlicky butter mixture.
- Arrange in air fryer: Place the shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Don’t overcrowd to allow even cooking.
- Cook: Air fry for 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. The shrimp should be pink and opaque.
- Garnish: Once cooked, sprinkle with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the deliciousness!
What to Serve With Air Fryer Garlic Butter Shrimp
- Rice: A bed of fluffy rice (white, brown, or even cauliflower rice) complements the flavors beautifully.
- Vegetables: Steamed or sautéed vegetables add color and nutrition to your plate.
- Pasta: Toss the shrimp with your favorite pasta for a full meal.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping in any leftover buttery sauce.
- Salad: A fresh garden salad balances the richness of the dish.
- Wine: Pair with a glass of crisp white wine for an elevated dining experience.
Top Tips for Perfecting Air Fryer Garlic Butter Shrimp
- Shrimp Size: Large shrimp work best for this recipe, but any size will do! Just adjust cooking time as needed.
- Flavor Boost: Add crushed red pepper for a spicy kick or sprinkle with lemon zest before serving.
- Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the shrimp, as they cook quickly; remove them as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 1-2 days.
- Equipment: Ensure your air fryer isn’t overcrowded to allow for proper air circulation.
Storing and Reheating Tips
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore the shrimp’s tenderness, or in a skillet over low heat.
- Freezing: You can freeze cooked shrimp for up to 3 months; just thaw before reheating.
FAQs
- Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, just ensure they are thoroughly thawed before marinating for best results.
- How spicy can I make this? Add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a kick!
- Can I prep this meal ahead of time? Absolutely! Marinate the shrimp in the garlic butter mixture and store in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
- Is this dish gluten-free? Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it a perfect choice for those with dietary restrictions.
- What’s the cook time variation? Cook time may slightly vary based on the air fryer model and shrimp size, so keep an eye on them!
Conclusion
This Air Fryer Garlic Butter Shrimp is an absolute must-try for any home cook! Quick, flavorful, and family-friendly, it’s sure to become a staple in your weeknight dinner menu. Try it tonight and let me know how it turned out!
Air Fryer Garlic Butter Shrimp
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine peeled and deveined shrimp with melted butter, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Toss well to ensure all the shrimp are evenly coated in the garlicky butter mixture.
- Place the shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring not to overcrowd.
- Air fry for 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking. The shrimp should turn pink and opaque.
- Once cooked, sprinkle with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the deliciousness!