Air Fryer Butterflied Shrimp Recipe

Butterflied large shrimp: These are shrimp that have been peeled, deveined, and cut almost in half for quicker cooking and better seasoning absorption.

Olive oil: A healthy fat that helps to coat the shrimp and allows the seasoning to stick.

Garlic powder: Adds a robust, savory flavor to the shrimp.

Paprika: Provides a mild, sweet pepper flavor and a beautiful color.

Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the shrimp and other seasonings.

Black pepper: Adds a bit of heat and depth to the seasoning mix.

To ensure your shrimp cook evenly and achieve a perfect texture, make sure they are arranged in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Overcrowding the basket can lead to uneven cooking and less crispy results. If necessary, cook the shrimp in batches to maintain optimal air circulation. Additionally, pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel before coating them in the olive oil mixture to help the seasoning adhere better and to prevent excess moisture, which can affect the crispiness.

• butterflied large shrimp - Substitute with scallops: Scallops have a similar texture and cook quickly, making them a good alternative for air frying.

• butterflied large shrimp - Substitute with chicken tenders: For those who prefer poultry, chicken tenders can be seasoned similarly and cooked in the air fryer.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it a suitable replacement for olive oil in air frying.

• olive oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can add a subtle sweetness and has a high smoke point, making it a good alternative for air frying.

• garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder provides a different but complementary flavor profile that can enhance the dish.

• garlic powder - Substitute with fresh minced garlic: Fresh minced garlic offers a more intense and aromatic flavor compared to garlic powder.

• paprika - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika adds a smoky depth to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor.

• paprika - Substitute with chili powder: Chili powder can add a bit of heat and complexity, making it a good alternative to paprika.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a savory umami flavor while also providing the necessary saltiness.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can offer a slightly different texture and flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a milder, slightly different heat and can be a good alternative to black pepper.

• black pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper adds a spicier kick, making it a good option for those who enjoy a bit more heat.

• Allow the shrimp to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the shrimp soggy.
• Transfer the cooled shrimp to an airtight container. If you have multiple layers of shrimp, place a sheet of parchment paper between each layer to prevent sticking.
• Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, consume the shrimp within this time frame to maintain optimal flavor and texture.
• To freeze, place the cooled shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are not touching. Freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours.
• Once frozen, transfer the shrimp to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
• When ready to reheat, thaw the shrimp in the refrigerator overnight. For a quicker option, place the shrimp in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water until thawed.
• Reheat the shrimp in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes, or until heated through. This helps retain their crispy texture.
• Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!

• Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover butterflied shrimp in a single layer in the basket. Heat for 3-4 minutes, flipping halfway through, until warmed through and crispy.

• Use a microwave for a quick reheat. Place the shrimp on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes. Check and add more time if necessary, but be cautious to avoid overcooking.

• Reheat on the stovetop by adding a small amount of olive oil to a skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

• For a more gentle reheating method, use the oven. Preheat to 300°F (150°C). Place the shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover with aluminum foil to prevent drying out and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until warmed through.

• If you have a steamer basket, bring a pot of water to a simmer. Place the shrimp in the steamer basket, cover, and steam for 2-3 minutes until heated through. This method helps retain moisture and prevents the shrimp from becoming rubbery.

• Air fryer: Used to cook the shrimp evenly and quickly with hot air circulation.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper with the shrimp.

• Tongs: Handy for flipping the shrimp halfway through the cooking process.

• Measuring spoons: Essential for accurately measuring the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

• Serving plate: Used to serve the cooked shrimp immediately after they are done.

• Small bowl: Ideal for holding your favorite dipping sauce.

Pre-mix the seasoning: Combine the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper in advance and store in an airtight container.

Use pre-butterflied shrimp: Purchase butterflied shrimp that are already peeled and deveined to save prep time.

Batch cooking: Cook multiple batches of shrimp in the air fryer back-to-back to save on preheating time.

Line the basket: Use parchment paper or a silicone liner in the air fryer basket for easier cleanup.