Cajun Shrimp in the Air Fryer Recipe

Introduction

Cajun Shrimp is a quick and flavorful dish that combines spicy seasoning with juicy, tender shrimp. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a party appetizer, it comes together easily using an air fryer for a crispy, delicious finish.

Ingredients

• 1 pound large raw shrimp (peeled and deveined, thawed)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• Parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F for 2-3 minutes.
2. Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine the shrimp, olive oil, Cajun seasoning, and garlic powder. Toss well to coat the shrimp evenly.
3. Step 3: Arrange the seasoned shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket, which has been brushed with olive oil or sprayed with cooking spray.
4. Step 4: Air fry the shrimp for 5-6 minutes, flipping halfway through. Cook until they turn pink and opaque.
5. Step 5: While cooking, mix the melted butter and lemon juice in a large bowl.
6. Step 6: Transfer the cooked shrimp to the butter-lemon mixture and toss gently to coat.
7. Step 7: Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.
• Use fresh lemon juice for a brighter flavor.
• If you don’t have an air fryer, cook the shrimp in a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes per side.
• Serve over rice, pasta, or in tacos for a complete meal.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to avoid overcooking the shrimp, which can make them tough.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure the shrimp are fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning and cooking to ensure even cooking and avoid excess moisture.

What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?

You can make a simple substitute by mixing paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, and black pepper.

Cajun Shrimp in the Air Fryer Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 74 reviews

This Cajun Shrimp recipe features perfectly seasoned large shrimp coated in a bold Cajun and garlic powder blend, then air fried to juicy perfection and tossed in a luscious lemon butter sauce. Ready in under 15 minutes, this dish is a quick and flavorful seafood delight ideal for a weeknight dinner or appetizer.

• Author: Sophie
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 minutes
• Total Time: 11 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Air Frying
• Cuisine: Cajun, American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Shrimp and Seasoning

• 1 pound large raw shrimp (peeled and deveined, thawed)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (see notes)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Butter Sauce

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Garnish

• Parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 2-3 minutes to ensure it reaches the optimal temperature for cooking the shrimp evenly.
2. Season the Shrimp: In a mixing bowl, combine the shrimp with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, and garlic powder. Toss well to coat all the shrimp evenly with the spices and oil, infusing them with flavor.
3. Prepare Air Fryer Basket: Lightly brush the air fryer basket with olive oil or spray with cooking spray to prevent the shrimp from sticking during cooking.
4. Air Fry the Shrimp: Arrange the seasoned shrimp in a single layer in the prepared air fryer basket. Air fry the shrimp for 5-6 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even cooking. The shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque.
5. Make Lemon Butter Sauce: While the shrimp cooks, mix the melted unsalted butter and lemon juice together in a large bowl to create a bright and rich finishing sauce.
6. Toss Shrimp in Sauce: Once cooked, transfer the hot shrimp to the bowl with the lemon butter mixture and toss gently to coat all the shrimp evenly with the buttery sauce.
7. Garnish and Serve: Garnish the shrimp with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness, then serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

• The Cajun seasoning can be store-bought or homemade by combining paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
• Make sure shrimp are fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning to achieve the best texture and flavor.
• If you prefer spicier shrimp, add additional cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.
• Use fresh lemon juice for the best brightness in the butter sauce.
• Cooking times may vary depending on the size of your shrimp and your air fryer model; always ensure shrimp are fully cooked and opaque.

Keywords: Cajun shrimp, air fryer shrimp, spicy shrimp, quick shrimp recipe, seafood appetizer, lemon butter shrimp