Crispy Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan

Craving something crunchy garlicky and cheesy but not interested in deep frying or a long clean up This crispy air fryer garlic parmesan shrimp delivers big flavor and a satisfying bite without the mess or heaviness of classic fried shrimp It is my go to for weeknight cravings or a fast but impressive appetizer when friends pop over and it never lasts long at my table

My family first fell for this recipe on a lazy Sunday after a beach trip and since then we make it for movie nights and game days too The air fryer keeps things breezy which is especially handy when you want seafood without the fuss

Ingredients

• Large raw shrimp: peeled and deveined This ensures quick cooking and easy eating
• Olive oil: Helps seasonings stick while promoting even browning
• Sea salt: Brightens up shrimp naturally taste for quality sea salt flakes
• Black pepper: Adds sharpness buy whole peppercorns for fresher flavor
• Garlic powder: Savory aromatic backbone for every bite
• Onion powder: Offers an extra layer of flavor choose a fresh container
• Smoked paprika: Gives a gentle warmth and smokiness opt for Spanish style if you can
• Red pepper flakes: Brings a lively kick use or skip as you like
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Salty nutty flavor use fresh Parmesan and grate it yourself
• Panko breadcrumbs: Makes the coating extra crisp Japanese panko is light and crunchy
• All purpose flour: Helps the coating cling and keeps shrimp tender
• Dried parsley: Offers a clean herby note look for bright green leaves
• Italian seasoning: A blend that brings together oregano basil thyme
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt: For a tangy creamy optional dipping sauce thick yogurt works best
• Mayonnaise: Helps the sauce feel rich and dippable
• Fresh garlic: Optional for sauce fresh garlic gives a punchy pop
• Lemon juice: Cuts the richness adds zest to dipping sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste: Always taste your sauce and adjust seasoning

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Shrimp:

Pat dry with paper towels and arrange in a large bowl to minimize extra moisture for optimal crispiness

Season the Shrimp:

Drizzle olive oil over the shrimp then sprinkle with sea salt black pepper garlic powder onion powder smoked paprika and red pepper flakes if you want it spicy Toss until shrimp are well coated and glistening

Make the Coating:

Combine grated Parmesan cheese panko breadcrumbs all purpose flour dried parsley and Italian seasoning in a shallow bowl Stir to blend everything together

Coat the Shrimp:

Take each seasoned shrimp and press gently into the Parmesan panko mixture making sure it sticks to all sides for maximum crunch

Preheat and Arrange:

Set your air fryer to three hundred seventy five degrees Fahrenheit While it heats lightly spray the basket with cooking spray then lay your shrimp in a single layer You may need to work in batches to avoid overcrowding

Air Fry Until Crispy:

Cook shrimp for five to six minutes then gently flip With another five to six minutes your shrimp should be golden on the outside and fully opaque inside The perfect doneness is around one hundred twenty to one hundred twenty five degrees Fahrenheit inside

Mix the Dipping Sauce:

Optional step Stir together sour cream or Greek yogurt mayonnaise minced garlic lemon juice and salt and pepper in a small bowl Chill until ready to serve

Serve Hot:

Pile shrimp high and serve straight away with fresh lemon wedges and the dipping sauce if you like

Pin it

Shrimp is the true star here I always look for big ones at the market since they hold up best in the air fryer Once when I made this with the kids helping they practically raced to see who could press the most cheese onto each shrimp It turned into a dinner full of laughs and definitely brought us back together at the table

Storage Tips

Keep leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days For the best crunch reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes rather than microwaving The dipping sauce will keep for up to four days in the refrigerator

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are avoiding flour try using almond flour instead Skip the panko in favor of crushed pork rinds for a low carb or keto alternative No Parmesan on hand Pecorino Romano works in a pinch and still gives plenty of flavor

Serving Suggestions

These shrimp are great on their own but also sit beautifully atop a fresh green salad Try them as a taco filling with crunchy slaw or served with roasted veggies for a complete meal For parties I sometimes offer extra lemon wedges and a variety of dipping sauces

Cultural and Historical Context

Shrimp coated in crispy cheesy crust is rooted in Italian American cooking which loves to combine seafood with bold seasonings Parmesan and garlic are classic together From traditional scampi to oven baked variations this modern air fryer version brings a familiar comfort with a freshness that fits any home cook routine

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do you keep shrimp crispy in the air fryer?

Pat the shrimp dry before seasoning, use panko breadcrumbs for crunch, and avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Cook in single layers for the best results.

→ What size shrimp works best for this dish?

Large, peeled, and deveined shrimp work well, as they retain juiciness and are easy to coat evenly with seasoning and parmesan mixture.

→ Can I make this without panko breadcrumbs?

Yes, you can substitute panko with crushed pork rinds for a keto option or use regular breadcrumbs if panko isn’t available.

→ What dipping sauce pairs well with the shrimp?

A creamy sauce made from sour cream or Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, garlic, and lemon juice complements the crisp shrimp.

→ How do I add more flavor or heat?

Try adding extra smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or lemon zest to the coating, or a few dashes of hot sauce to the dip.

→ Are there alternative cooking methods?

While the air fryer gives the crispiest finish, you can also bake the shrimp at 400°F, flipping once for even browning.