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Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp - Crispy, Savory, and Ready Fast

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 18 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound large shrimp (16–20 count), peeled and deveined, tails on or off
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter for richer flavor)
  • 3–4 garlic cloves, finely minced
  • 1/3 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese (preferably fresh, not the shelf-stable powder)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (plus lemon wedges for serving)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4–1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and parsley
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
  • Cooking spray (optional, for the air fryer basket)

Method
 

  1. Prep the shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Dry shrimp sear better and don’t steam in the air fryer.
  2. Make the seasoning mixture: In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, Parmesan, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes (if using), and Italian seasoning. Stir until it forms a paste-like coating.
  3. Toss to coat: Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss until every piece is well coated. Let it sit for 5 minutes while you heat the air fryer.
  4. Preheat the air fryer: Set to 390–400°F (200°C). Lightly mist the basket with cooking spray if it tends to stick.
  5. Arrange the shrimp: Place shrimp in a single layer without overlapping. Work in batches if needed for even cooking and better browning.
  6. Air fry: Cook for 4–6 minutes, shaking the basket or flipping once halfway. Shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque with lightly browned edges. Do not overcook—they go from perfect to rubbery fast.
  7. Finish and serve: Transfer to a plate, sprinkle with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley, and add a squeeze of lemon. Serve hot.