Why make this recipe
Air Fryer Garlic Butter Shrimp is an easy and delicious dish that can be made in just a few minutes. This recipe captures the sweet flavor of shrimp while infusing it with the richness of garlic and butter. Not only is this dish quick to prepare, but it is also healthier than traditional frying methods. If you’re looking for a simple weeknight meal or an impressive appetizer for guests, this recipe is perfect. You may also find Butternut Squash Soup useful.
How to make Air Fryer Garlic Butter Shrimp
Ingredients:
- 1 pound (450g) peeled and deveined shrimp, medium to large size
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Directions:
- Rinse peeled and deveined shrimp under cold water and pat dry completely with paper towels. Place them in a medium mixing bowl.
- Melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter gently on the stove or in the microwave. Stir in minced garlic and let it sit for a minute to infuse flavor.
- Pour the garlic butter over the shrimp. Add ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired. Toss to coat evenly.
- Squeeze in 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice and toss again.
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 2 minutes.
- Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 3-4 minutes, flip the shrimp, then cook for another 3-4 minutes until they are pink, opaque, and the edges are slightly crispy.
- Transfer the shrimp to a serving dish and sprinkle with chopped parsley if using.
- Optional: Toss cooked shrimp with a little more melted garlic butter before serving for extra flavor.
How to serve Air Fryer Garlic Butter Shrimp
Air Fryer Garlic Butter Shrimp makes a delicious main dish or a fantastic appetizer. You can serve it with a side of rice, a fresh salad, or even over pasta for a heartier meal. Pair it with a wedge of lemon and some crusty bread to soak up the extra garlic butter.
How to store Air Fryer Garlic Butter Shrimp
Leftover shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, be careful not to overcook them, as shrimp can become rubbery. Use the air fryer or a skillet to gently reheat them on low heat.
Tips to make Air Fryer Garlic Butter Shrimp
Make sure to not overcrowd the air fryer basket when cooking the shrimp to ensure they cook evenly. If you prefer a spicier dish, feel free to increase the amount of red pepper flakes. For a different flavor profile, consider adding herbs like thyme or oregano.
Variations
If you want to change things up, try adding vegetables like asparagus or bell peppers in with the shrimp for a more balanced meal. You can also experiment with different seasonings, such as Cajun spices or Italian seasoning.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute the butter with a vegan option like coconut oil or a dairy-free butter spread.
How do I know when the shrimp are done?
Shrimp are done cooking when they turn pink and opaque.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Garlic Butter Shrimp is an easy and tasty dish that can fit into any meal plan. If you’re interested in trying more delicious shrimp recipes, check out Air Fryer Shrimp with Garlic Butter – Belle of the Kitchen. This recipe is sure to impress and provide great flavor without a lot of fuss!