This Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp recipe is a true delight for seafood lovers. Combining tender shrimp with the rich flavors of garlic and Parmesan, this dish is not only quick to prepare but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer at a gathering or tossing it over pasta for a satisfying main course, this recipe will impress your guests and family alike.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Shrimp
- For Garnish
- How to Make Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp
- Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
- Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp Mixture
- Step 3: Add Parmesan Cheese
- Step 4: Prepare the Air Fryer Basket
- Step 5: Arrange Shrimp in Air Fryer
- Step 6: Cook the Shrimp
- Step 7: Serve Your Dish
- Step 8: Garnish and Enjoy!
- How to Serve Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp
- As an Appetizer
- Over Pasta
- In Tacos
- On a Salad
- How to Perfect Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp
- Best Side Dishes for Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp
- Reheating Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp
- Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I make Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp spicy?
- Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
- What should I serve with Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp?
- How do I store leftover Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: Ready in just 18 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Experience: The combination of garlic and Parmesan creates a mouthwatering taste that will leave you wanting more.
- Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as an appetizer, over pasta, or as part of a seafood feast.
- Healthy Option: Air frying reduces the amount of oil needed, offering a lighter alternative without sacrificing flavor.
- Easy Cleanup: Using an air fryer means less mess in the kitchen compared to traditional frying methods.
Tools and Preparation
Preparing your Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp is straightforward. Having the right tools on hand will make the process even smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowl
- Cooking spray
- Tongs or spatula
- Serving platter
Importance of Each Tool
- Air fryer: Cooks shrimp evenly while keeping them tender and juicy without excessive oil.
- Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly to ensure maximum flavor in every bite.
- Cooking spray: Prevents sticking, making cleanup easier after cooking.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (Make sure to use raw shrimp for this recipe; pre-cooked shrimp will not work well.)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (Adjust the amount of garlic according to your taste preference.)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Lemon wedges (For serving.)

How to Make Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This step ensures that your shrimp cook evenly and develop a nice golden color.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the peeled and deveined shrimp with:
1. Olive oil
2. Minced garlic
3. Paprika
4. Salt
5. Black pepper
Mix well until all shrimp are evenly coated in the seasoning blend.
Step 3: Add Parmesan Cheese
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the seasoned shrimp. Toss gently to coat each piece thoroughly for maximum flavor.
Step 4: Prepare the Air Fryer Basket
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. This helps prevent sticking during cooking.
Step 5: Arrange Shrimp in Air Fryer
Place the shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. If needed, cook them in batches depending on your air fryer’s capacity.
Step 6: Cook the Shrimp
Cook the shrimp in the air fryer for 6-8 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even browning. The shrimp should be cooked through and golden when done.
Step 7: Serve Your Dish
Once cooked, carefully remove the shrimp from the air fryer using tongs or a spatula. Transfer them to a serving platter.
Step 8: Garnish and Enjoy!
Garnish the shrimp with fresh chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.
How to Serve Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp
Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp is a versatile dish that can be served in various delicious ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet meal at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.
As an Appetizer
- Serve the shrimp on a platter with toothpicks for easy eating at gatherings.
- Pair with a zesty dipping sauce like marinara or garlic aioli for added flavor.
Over Pasta
- Toss the cooked shrimp with your favorite pasta and a light olive oil sauce for a hearty main dish.
- Add cherry tomatoes and spinach for extra color and nutrients.
In Tacos
- Fill soft or hard taco shells with the shrimp and top with fresh salsa, avocado, and cilantro.
- Drizzle with lime juice for a refreshing kick.
On a Salad
- Add the shrimp to a mixed green salad topped with Caesar dressing for a protein boost.
- Include ingredients like croutons and parmesan cheese to match the shrimp’s flavors.
How to Perfect Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp
To achieve perfectly cooked Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp, follow these helpful tips that enhance flavor and texture.
- Choose Fresh Shrimp: Always use raw shrimp for the best results; pre-cooked shrimp can become rubbery when air-fried.
- Coat Evenly: Ensure all shrimp are well-coated in oil, garlic, and seasoning for consistent flavor in every bite.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Cook shrimp in batches if necessary; overcrowding the air fryer can lead to uneven cooking.
- Adjust Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the shrimp as they cook; different sizes may require slight adjustments in cooking time.
- Garnish Generously: Use fresh parsley and lemon wedges as garnish to enhance presentation and add brightness to each serving.

Best Side Dishes for Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp
Pairing side dishes with your Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp can create a balanced meal. Here are some tasty options to consider:
- Garlic Bread: A classic choice that complements the garlic flavor of the shrimp perfectly. Toast slices until golden brown.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like bell peppers and zucchini tossed in olive oil make for a colorful and nutritious side.
- Rice Pilaf: A light rice dish seasoned with herbs provides a great base for the flavorful shrimp.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw offers freshness that balances the richness of the shrimp dish. Consider adding citrus dressing.
- Quinoa Salad: This protein-packed salad mixed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta adds texture and nutrition.
- Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with lemon makes for an elegant side that pairs well with seafood.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some tips to ensure your shrimp turn out perfectly.
- Using Pre-Cooked Shrimp: Pre-cooked shrimp will not absorb the flavors of garlic and Parmesan as raw shrimp do. Always use raw shrimp for the best results.
- Overcrowding the Air Fryer Basket: Placing too many shrimp in the basket can lead to uneven cooking. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure every piece is crispy and golden.
- Skipping the Preheating Step: Not preheating your air fryer can cause the shrimp to cook unevenly. Always preheat for about 5 minutes before adding your ingredients.
- Not Adjusting Garlic to Taste: Garlic can be quite potent for some people. If you’re unsure, start with less garlic and add more according to your taste preference.
- Ignoring Cooking Time: Cooking shrimp for too long can result in rubbery texture. Keep an eye on them and check for doneness at the 6-minute mark.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp in an airtight container.
- They can last in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Make sure they cool down completely before sealing them in the container.
Freezing Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp
- Place cooled shrimp in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Label containers with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread shrimp on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place shrimp on a microwave-safe plate and cover loosely. Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed, being careful not to overcook.
- Stovetop: Warm a skillet over medium heat, add a little olive oil, and sauté shrimp for about 3-4 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp spicy?
You can add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper along with paprika in the recipe. Adjust according to your spice tolerance!
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
While it’s best to use fresh raw shrimp, you can use frozen ones. Just make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.
What should I serve with Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp?
This dish pairs well with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad. You could also serve it as an appetizer alongside dipping sauces.
How do I store leftover Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or freeze them for longer storage.
Final Thoughts
Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors with ease of preparation. Perfect as an appetizer or served over pasta, this recipe is versatile enough for any occasion. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite spices or serving it with different sides! Enjoy experimenting with this delicious meal
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Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp is a delectable seafood dish that seafood lovers will absolutely adore. This quick and easy recipe features succulent shrimp coated in a rich blend of garlic and Parmesan cheese, resulting in a flavorful experience that’s perfect for any occasion. Ready in just 18 minutes, it can be served as an elegant appetizer at your next gathering or tossed over pasta for a satisfying main course. With its healthy air-frying method and minimal cleanup, this dish not only impresses but also makes cooking convenient and enjoyable.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine shrimp, olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and black pepper; coat well.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the shrimp and toss gently.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
- Arrange shrimp in a single layer in the basket; cook for 6-8 minutes, shaking halfway through until golden.
- Serve garnished with parsley and lemon wedges.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Appetizer/Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 ounces (113g)
- Calories: 228
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 675mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 166mg





