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Air fryer garlic Parmesan shrimp with juicy tender shrimp, roasted garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, and lemon wedges, served as an easy high protein seafood dinner.
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Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp - Crispy, Juicy, and Ready in Minutes

Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time8 minutes
Total Time18 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 pound large shrimp (16–20 count), peeled and deveined, tails on or off
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (or olive oil for dairy-free)
  • 3 cloves garlic, finely minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese (the finely grated kind works best)
  • 2 tablespoons panko breadcrumbs (optional for extra crunch)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (plus lemon wedges for serving)
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet)
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (plus more for garnish)
  • Nonstick spray for the air fryer basket

Instructions

  • Prep the shrimp: Pat the shrimp very dry with paper towels. Dry shrimp pick up flavor and crisp better in the air fryer.
  • Make the coating: In a bowl, combine melted butter, garlic, Parmesan, panko, lemon zest, paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, pepper, and parsley. Stir until it forms a slightly crumbly paste.
  • Toss to coat: Add the shrimp and toss until each piece is well coated. If the mixture seems dry, add another teaspoon of melted butter or a drizzle of olive oil.
  • Preheat the air fryer: Heat to 390°F (200°C) for 3 minutes. Lightly spray the basket with nonstick spray.
  • Arrange the shrimp: Place shrimp in a single layer in the basket. Avoid crowding; cook in batches if needed for even browning.
  • Air fry: Cook for 5–7 minutes, flipping once at the halfway point. Shrimp are done when opaque, curled into a loose “C,” and the coating is golden.
  • Finish and serve: Squeeze fresh lemon over the top and sprinkle with extra parsley. Serve hot with more Parmesan, if you like.