In the world of quick and convenient meals, the air fryer has become a kitchen superhero, turning ordinary ingredients into extraordinary delights. One such culinary masterpiece is the Air Fryer Popcorn Shrimp — a crispy, flavorful, and downright addictive dish that is as easy to make as it is to devour.

Let's dive into the details of this fantastic recipe and explore the magic of creating perfect popcorn shrimp with the help of your trusty air fryer.

shrimp, deveined, peeled, cleaned, thawed, all-purpose flour, egg, panko bread crumbs, paprika, onion, garlic powder, Cajun seasoning, black and white pepper in small bowls

Shrimp is a low-calorie, high-protein seafood option. It's rich in nutrients such as vitamin B12, selenium, and omega-3 fatty acids. The protein content in shrimp can contribute to satiety, making it a good choice for those looking to incorporate lean protein into their diet.

The recipe incorporates whole, unprocessed ingredients like shrimp, eggs, and spices. These provide essential nutrients and flavors without the need for highly processed or artificial additives.

seasoned shrimp along with egg and bread crumbs

The seasoning mix includes a variety of spices that not only enhance the flavor but also contribute potential health benefits. Ingredients like garlic, onion powder, and Cajun seasoning can add flavor without relying heavily on salt, promoting a more balanced and potentially lower sodium content.

prepared shrimps placed in the air fryer sheet

The use of an air fryer significantly reduces the amount of oil needed compared to deep frying. Traditional deep-frying can lead to excessive oil absorption, adding unnecessary calories and unhealthy fats to the dish. With the air fryer, you can achieve a crispy texture using minimal oil, promoting a healthier cooking method.

The dipping sauce, made with mayo, ketchup, and sweet chili sauce, can be modified to align with dietary preferences. For a healthier option, consider using a lighter mayo or exploring alternative, nutrient-dense dipping sauces.

air fryer popcorn shrimp with dipping sauce

Air Fryer Popcorn Shrimp is not just a dish; it's a culinary adventure. The ease of preparation, coupled with the explosive flavors and delightful crunch, makes this recipe a winner for family dinners, parties, or even a solo indulgence. So, fire up that air fryer and embark on a journey to crispy perfection with each delectable shrimp. Your taste buds will thank you!

Air Fryer Popcorn Shrimp

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Author: Sadie
Total Time: 30 mins
Yield: 12–14 servings 1x

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Description

The preparation of the Air Fryer Popcorn Shrimp recipe involves a simple yet flavorful process.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb shrimp, deveined, peeled, cleaned, thawed
¼ cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs
2 cups panko bread crumbs
1 tsp Old Bay
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp Cajun seasoning
⅛ tsp ground black pepper
¼ tsp white pepper
Olive Oil nonstick cooking spray

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Instructions

Add cleaned shrimp to a bowl.
Mix 1/4 of the seasoning with the shrimp, ensuring an even coating.
Sprinkle 1/4 of the seasoning over the flour, toss, and coat the shrimp with it.
Add the remaining seasoning to the bread crumbs.
Beat the eggs. Now you have three bowls: Seasoned Shrimp with Flour, Beaten Eggs, and Panko.
Dip each shrimp in the egg mixture, then in the breading. Set aside for the breading to stick.
Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees.
Spray the basket or air fryer sheets with non-stick spray.
Lay the shrimp in a single layer, non-stacked.
Cook for 4 mins on each side, spraying with Olive oil when flipping.
Repeat for each batch (if necessary).
Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.

Dipping Sauce

½ cup mayo
3 tbsp ketchup
2 tbsp sweet chili sauce

Enjoy your Air Fryer Popcorn Shrimp with this tasty dipping sauce!

Notes

Equipment:

9×13 Pan
Skillet

Notes:

If you don't have panko, you can use regular breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes for a similar crispy texture.
Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the shrimp in batches.
You can experiment with lighter alternatives for the dipping sauce, such as Greek yogurt-based sauces or a simple squeeze of lemon for a lighter option.
For those with gluten sensitivities, consider using gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.

Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 8 mins

Keywords: homemade air fryer popcorn shrimp, popcorn shrimp in an air fryer, popcorn shrimp air fryer recipe

Air Fryer Popcorn Shrimp