Air Fryer Popcorn Shrimp Recipe

Small size shrimp: These are the main ingredient, providing the juicy and tender base for the dish.

All-purpose flour: Used to coat the shrimp, helping the other ingredients stick.

Beaten eggs: These act as a binding agent to help the breadcrumbs adhere to the shrimp.

Panko preferred breadcrumbs: These give the shrimp a light and crispy texture.

Garlic powder: Adds a subtle garlic flavor to the breading.

Paprika: Provides a mild, smoky flavor and a bit of color.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the shrimp.

Black pepper: Adds a hint of spice and depth to the seasoning.

Cooking spray: Used to lightly coat the shrimp, ensuring they crisp up nicely in the air fryer.

When coating the shrimp, ensure each piece is thoroughly covered in the flour mixture before dipping into the beaten eggs. This helps the breadcrumbs adhere better, resulting in a crispier texture. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to allow hot air to circulate evenly around each piece, ensuring even cooking and a golden, crispy finish.

• small size shrimp - Substitute with small scallops: Small scallops have a similar texture and cook quickly, making them a good alternative for popcorn shrimp.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch provides a lighter, crispier coating, which can be preferable for air-fried foods.

• beaten eggs - Substitute with buttermilk: Buttermilk can help the breadcrumbs adhere to the shrimp and adds a slight tangy flavor.

• panko preferred breadcrumbs - Substitute with crushed cornflakes: Crushed cornflakes offer a similar crunch and can be a gluten-free alternative if needed.

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

• paprika - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper adds a bit more heat, which can be adjusted to taste.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty and umami flavor, but be cautious with the amount to avoid over-salting.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a milder flavor and can be used to maintain the seasoning without overpowering the dish.

• cooking spray - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be brushed on the shrimp to achieve a similar non-stick effect and add a richer flavor.

• Allow the popcorn shrimp to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the shrimp soggy.
• Place the cooled shrimp in an airtight container. If stacking, separate layers with parchment paper to maintain crispiness.
• Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes to regain crispiness.
• For freezing, arrange the cooled shrimp on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze for 1-2 hours until solid.
• Transfer the frozen shrimp to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date and store for up to 2 months.
• When ready to eat, reheat directly from frozen in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes, shaking halfway through, until heated through and crispy.

• Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover popcorn shrimp in a single layer in the basket. Heat for 3-5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even reheating. This method keeps the shrimp crispy and delicious.

• Use an oven preheated to 375°F (190°C). Spread the shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 7-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method is great for reheating larger batches while maintaining crispiness.

• For a quick fix, use a microwave. Place the shrimp on a microwave-safe plate lined with a paper towel. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes. Note that this method may result in less crispy shrimp, but it's convenient for a speedy reheat.

• If you have a toaster oven, preheat it to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the shrimp on the toaster oven tray and heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning them halfway through. This method offers a balance between speed and maintaining the shrimp's texture.

• For a stovetop method, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter. Place the shrimp in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until heated through. This method can add a bit of extra flavor and crispiness.

• Air fryer: Used to cook the shrimp to a golden and crispy perfection without deep frying.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

• Whisk: Used to beat the eggs until smooth.

• Tongs: Used to dip the shrimp into the flour mixture, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs.

• Cooking spray: Used to lightly coat the shrimp to ensure they become crispy in the air fryer.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure the flour and breadcrumbs.

• Plate: Used to hold the breaded shrimp before placing them in the air fryer.

• Kitchen scale: Used to measure the shrimp to ensure you have 1 lb.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure and prepare all ingredients before starting to streamline the process.

Use pre-peeled shrimp: Save time by purchasing shrimp that are already peeled and deveined.

Set up a dipping station: Arrange the flour mixture, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs in a row for efficient dipping.

Batch cooking: Cook shrimp in batches to ensure even cooking and avoid overcrowding the air fryer.

Quick clean-up: Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper for easier cleaning.