Air Fryer Old Bay Shrimp Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick, delicious way to enjoy perfectly seasoned shrimp, you’re in for a treat with this Air Fryer Old Bay Shrimp Recipe. I promise, it’s one of those recipes that’s insanely easy but tastes like you spent way longer in the kitchen. Whether you’re whipping up a weeknight dinner or impressing friends with a snack, this recipe delivers a crispy, flavorful shrimp experience every time — and the air fryer makes cleanup a breeze!

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Ingredients & Why They Work

Every ingredient in this Air Fryer Old Bay Shrimp Recipe plays a role in building that irresistible flavor and texture. I always recommend using fresh lemon juice whenever possible—it really brightens the dish. Also, picking large shrimp makes a difference when it comes to cooking time and eating experience.

• Large shrimp (peeled and deveined): Fresh or thawed frozen large shrimp work best—they cook evenly and stay juicy in the air fryer.
• Olive oil: Helps the seasoning stick and adds a subtle richness that coats each shrimp beautifully.
• Old Bay seasoning: The star of the show! This classic blend of spices instantly transforms shrimp with its bold, tangy flavor.
• Freshly squeezed lemon juice: Adds brightness and a zesty counterpoint to the savory spices.
• Fresh chopped parsley: A vibrant garnish that adds color and a mild herbaceous note.

Tweak to Your Taste

I love playing around with this Air Fryer Old Bay Shrimp Recipe depending on the mood or what I have on hand. It’s such a flexible base, and the Old Bay seasoning is forgiving enough to allow different add-ins without losing its charm.

• Spicy Kick: Sometimes, I mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or toss the shrimp with a little hot sauce after cooking for a smoky heat that makes the flavor pop.
• Garlicky Twist: Adding a clove or two of minced garlic to the marinade amps up the savory notes and feels indulgent without extra effort.
• Herb Variations: If parsley isn’t your thing, fresh cilantro or even chopped basil can brighten the finish with their own unique flair.
• Make it Citrus-Heavy: For extra zing, add some lemon zest along with the juice—totally fresh and lively in every bite.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Air Fryer Old Bay Shrimp Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Shrimp and Marinade

Start by making sure your shrimp are fully peeled and deveined—it’s worth the couple of extra minutes for a smooth eating experience. In a large mixing bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, Old Bay seasoning, and fresh lemon juice until every shrimp is evenly coated. This simple marinade brings out so much flavor, and it’s perfect for quick air fryer cooking.

Step 2: Load the Air Fryer Basket

Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in your air fryer basket. I found crowding the basket leads to uneven cooking, so if you have more shrimp than fit nicely, cook them in batches. This step ensures each shrimp gets that perfect crispy edge.

Step 3: Air Fry Until Perfectly Cooked

Set the air fryer to 360ºF and cook for 8–10 minutes. I like to check at the 8-minute mark to avoid overcooking. The shrimp are done when they curl up and turn an opaque pink—using a meat thermometer to hit 145ºF internally is a foolproof way to nail it every time.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Transfer the shrimp to a serving plate and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. From here, it’s all about enjoying! The shrimp make a fantastic snack, appetizer, or protein-packed addition to any meal.

How to Serve Air Fryer Old Bay Shrimp Recipe

Garnishes

Besides the fresh parsley sprinkle, I love squeezing a little extra lemon over the shrimp right before serving. Sometimes, I add a tiny drizzle of garlic butter for richness. It’s those finishing touches that take the dish from great to unforgettable.

Side Dishes

Pair these Old Bay shrimp with simple sides like a crisp green salad, roasted veggies, or creamy mashed potatoes. For a low-carb option, I adore throwing together some sautéed zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice to soak up the juices.

Creative Ways to Present

One of my favorite presentation ideas for parties is to thread the shrimp onto skewers with chunks of grilled pineapple or bell peppers for a fun, colorful look. You can also serve them layered over garlic butter toasted baguette slices to turn it into an appetizer everyone loves.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge — they keep really well for 1 to 2 days. Just make sure they cool completely before sealing to avoid extra moisture buildup which can make them soggy.

Freezing

If you want to freeze the shrimp, spread them on a baking sheet first to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. This way, they won’t clump together. They keep great for up to 3 months and are super handy for quick meals later on.

Reheating

To reheat, pop the shrimp back in the air fryer for 2–3 minutes at 350ºF. This crisps them back up nicely without drying them out. It’s way better than microwaving, which often makes shrimp rubbery.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I’ve been making this Air Fryer Old Bay Shrimp Recipe on repeat lately—I love how effortlessly it turns simple shrimp into a flavor-packed delight that feels both fresh and comforting. Whether you’re new to air frying or a seasoned pro, this recipe fits right into your busy life without sacrificing taste. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll reach for Old Bay and the air fryer every time you want shrimp done right and done quickly. Give it a shot—you’re going to love it!

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