Crispy Air Fryer Shrimp dipped in buttermilk and rolled in panko breadcrumbs is a mouthwatering dish that combines the perfect crispy exterior with tender, juicy shrimp inside. The air fryer method is a game-changer, allowing you to achieve that golden, crunchy texture without deep frying, which makes it a healthier version of a classic crispy shrimp recipe. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, adding it to a salad, or making a shrimp taco filling, this dish is quick, easy, and packed with flavor. Plus, using buttermilk adds an extra layer of richness, ensuring the shrimp stays moist while the panko breadcrumbs deliver a satisfying crunch.
The process for making Crispy Air Fryer Shrimp is super simple. First, the shrimp are dipped in buttermilk, which helps the panko breadcrumbs adhere better and also adds a slight tang to the flavor. Then, they’re rolled in seasoned panko breadcrumbs, which are lighter and crispier than regular breadcrumbs, giving your shrimp that satisfying crunch. The air fryer works its magic by circulating hot air around the shrimp, giving it that deep-fried texture without the need for excessive oil or grease. The result is a golden, crispy shrimp that’s perfectly cooked on the outside while staying juicy on the inside.
This recipe is highly customizable depending on your preferences. You can spice up the panko coating with garlic powder, paprika, or even a dash of cayenne for some heat. If you’re craving a more indulgent version, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese in the breadcrumb mixture will add a savory, cheesy kick. The shrimp cook quickly in the air fryer—usually in about 6-8 minutes—so it’s a perfect recipe for busy nights when you want something flavorful but don’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen. These shrimp are also a great option for meal prep or entertaining guests since they can be made in batches and served with a variety of dipping sauces, such as cocktail sauce, tartar sauce, or a tangy garlic aioli.
Crispy Air Fryer Shrimp Recipe (Buttermilk & Panko)
Ingredients:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off, depending on preference)
- 1/2 cup buttermilk (you can substitute with milk if needed)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (preferably unseasoned)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika (or smoked paprika for added flavor)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Olive oil spray (or cooking spray for spraying on shrimp)
- Fresh parsley (chopped, optional for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This will help the buttermilk and panko adhere better.
- Place the shrimp in a shallow bowl and pour the buttermilk over them. Allow the shrimp to soak in the buttermilk for 10-15 minutes, or at least while you prepare the breadcrumb coating.
2. Prepare the Panko Coating:
- In a separate shallow dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine and evenly season the breadcrumbs.
3. Coat the Shrimp:
- After the shrimp have soaked in the buttermilk, dredge each shrimp in the seasoned panko breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the breadcrumbs stick to the shrimp. Shake off any excess breadcrumbs.
4. Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes. This ensures that the shrimp cook evenly and get crispy.
5. Air Fry the Shrimp:
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray to prevent sticking.
- Place the coated shrimp in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Spray the shrimp lightly with olive oil spray for an extra crispy coating.
- Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the shrimp are golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve:
- Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the air fryer and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for a fresh burst of flavor.
Tips:
- Shrimp Size: Choose large or jumbo shrimp for the best results. Smaller shrimp may cook too quickly and could end up overcooked.
- Air Fryer Basket: Make sure the shrimp are arranged in a single layer in the air fryer basket for even cooking. Avoid overcrowding, as it can cause the shrimp to steam rather than crisp up.
- Seasoning Variations: Feel free to add extra spices to the panko coating for more flavor. A pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder can add some heat, while lemon zest or dried herbs (like oregano or thyme) can give the shrimp a fresh twist.
- Dipping Sauces: Serve your crispy shrimp with a variety of dipping sauces. Try cocktail sauce, tartar sauce, or a creamy garlic aioli. You can even try a spicy sriracha mayo for a flavorful kick.
- Make it a Meal: Serve the shrimp over a bed of greens for a light and healthy salad, or toss them in a wrap or tacos with some slaw and fresh salsa.
