If you’re craving a quick and tasty meal, look no further than Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp. This dish is not only simple but packed with flavor. With just a few ingredients like fresh shrimp, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, you can whip up a delicious dish in no time. Follow my step-by-step guide to impress your family or guests tonight! Let’s dive into the details for this easy recipe.
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 25 minutes from start to finish, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
- Flavorful Marinade: The combination of garlic, paprika, and Parmesan creates a deliciously savory flavor that elevates the shrimp.
- Healthy Cooking Method: Using an air fryer means less oil and fewer calories while still achieving a crispy texture.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice levels by adding or reducing red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
Ingredients
Here are the key ingredients for your Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp.
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Each ingredient plays a role in making this dish tasty. The shrimp gives protein and a nice texture. Olive oil keeps the shrimp moist and helps flavors stick. Garlic packs a punch of flavor. Paprika adds smokiness, while red pepper flakes can kick up the heat if you like spice. Parmesan cheese brings a rich, salty note. Fresh parsley adds color and a hint of freshness. Salt and pepper are essential for seasoning.
When you gather these items, you’re ready for a quick and tasty dish. Having everything prepped makes cooking easier and more fun. Enjoy the process!

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of Garlic Mixture
To start, grab a large bowl. In this bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 4 minced cloves of garlic, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes if you like some heat. Add salt and pepper to taste. Mix all the ingredients well. This garlic mixture will coat the shrimp and add great flavor.
Marinating the Shrimp
Next, take 1 pound of large shrimp that are peeled and deveined. Toss the shrimp in the garlic mixture until they are evenly coated. Let the shrimp sit for 15 minutes. This marinating step is key for enhancing the flavor of the shrimp.
Air Frying the Shrimp
Now, we need to cook the shrimp. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. Once it’s hot, place the marinated shrimp in the air fryer basket. Make sure to arrange them in a single layer with some space in between. This helps them cook evenly. Cook the shrimp for 6 to 8 minutes. Remember to shake the basket halfway through for even cooking.
In the last minute, sprinkle ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese over the shrimp. Allow the cheese to melt and get slightly crispy. After cooking, carefully remove the shrimp from the air fryer and place them on a serving dish.
Tips & Tricks
Tips for Perfectly Cooked Shrimp
For the best shrimp, I recommend cooking them at 400°F (200°C). This high heat cooks them fast, keeping them juicy. The cooking time is about 6 to 8 minutes. Remember to shake the basket halfway through. This step helps cook the shrimp evenly. If you don’t shake, some shrimp may not cook well.
How to Enhance Flavor
You can add many spices to boost flavor. Try lemon zest or fresh herbs like thyme or basil. If you like heat, add more red pepper flakes. Marinades can also change the taste. A mix of soy sauce and ginger gives a nice twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the shrimp with a side of steamed rice or pasta. A fresh salad pairs well, too. For sauces, try tartar sauce or a spicy aioli. These add creaminess and extra flavor. Enjoy your meal with a nice drink!
Pro Tips
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Allowing the shrimp to marinate for at least 15 minutes enhances the flavors and makes them more delicious.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and parsley can significantly elevate the taste of your dish compared to dried versions.
- Check for Doneness: Shrimp cook quickly; they should be pink and opaque throughout. Avoid overcooking to maintain tenderness.
- Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the spices or add your favorites to create a custom flavor profile that suits your taste.

Variations
Different Seafood Options
You can easily swap shrimp for other seafood. Scallops are a great choice. They cook fast and taste great with garlic and cheese. Fish like cod or tilapia also work well. Just cut them into pieces for even cooking. Remember to adjust cooking times to avoid overcooking.
Alternative Flavor Profiles
Want to change the taste? Try adding lemon juice or zest. It brightens up the dish. You can also mix in fresh herbs like basil or dill. Different cheeses can add a twist too. Try feta for a tangy flavor or cheddar for a richer taste. Experiment and see what you like best!
Spice Level Adjustments
Do you like heat? You can boost the spice level easily. Add more red pepper flakes to the mix. For a different kick, try cayenne pepper or chili powder. If you prefer mild, leave out the spicy ingredients. You control the heat! This dish can be as spicy or mild as you want.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp, store leftovers in a sealed container. This helps keep the shrimp fresh. For best taste, refrigerate them within two hours. Use a shallow container to cool them quickly.
If you want to keep shrimp longer, freeze them. Place the shrimp in a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. Make sure to label the bag with the date.
Reheating Tips
When you’re ready to eat those tasty leftovers, reheat shrimp safely. The best way is to use your air fryer again. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C) for about 3 minutes. Place the shrimp inside and heat for 3-5 minutes. This keeps them crispy.
You can also use a microwave. Place the shrimp on a plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, checking often. This prevents overcooking.
Shelf Life Information
In the fridge, your shrimp will last for 3-4 days. If you freeze them, they can last up to 2 months. However, for the best flavor, eat them sooner. Always check for any off smells or changes in texture before eating leftovers.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! To thaw them, place the shrimp in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes. This keeps them from cooking. Once thawed, drain the water and pat the shrimp dry. This helps the garlic mixture stick better. For cooking, follow the same steps as fresh shrimp. Just check them a minute or two earlier to ensure they cook through properly.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you need a substitute for Parmesan cheese, try nutritional yeast for a vegan option. It adds a cheesy flavor without dairy. You can also use Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano if you want a similar taste. For those with lactose intolerance, look for lactose-free cheeses. They work just as well in this dish.
How do I know when the shrimp is fully cooked?
To check if shrimp are done, look for a pink color and a firm texture. They should curl into a C shape. If they curl into an O shape, they may be overcooked. The internal temperature should reach 120°F (49°C). Use a meat thermometer if you want to be precise.
This guide showed you how to make tasty shrimp in an air fryer. You learned about the key ingredients, step-by-step cooking instructions, and useful tips to get it just right. I also shared ways to vary the recipe and store leftovers. Cooking can be simple and fun. Try making this dish your own by changing flavors or adding sides. Enjoy your delicious shrimp meal and impress others with your cooking skill

Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- to taste Salt and pepper
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Add the shrimp to the bowl, tossing to coat them evenly in the garlic mixture. Let the shrimp marinate for about 15 minutes for enhanced flavor.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Once preheated, place the marinated shrimp in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure to leave space between them for even cooking.
- Air fry for 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
- In the last minute of cooking, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the shrimp, then continue cooking until the cheese is melted and slightly crispy.
- Carefully remove the shrimp from the air fryer and transfer them to a serving dish.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

