Why Make This Recipe
Air Fryer Fried Shrimp with Sriracha Mayo is a delicious and healthier twist on a classic dish. Cooking shrimp in an air fryer gives you that crispy texture without the added oil of traditional frying. The homemade Sriracha mayo adds a spicy, creamy kick that elevates the dish to a new level. This recipe is easy to follow, making it a perfect option for both quick weeknight dinners and weekend gatherings!
How to Make Air Fryer Fried Shrimp with Sriracha Mayo
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 tablespoon Sriracha plus more to taste, up to 1 tablespoon
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt to taste
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
- 2 large eggs, whisked
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 pound large, uncooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
Directions
Make the Sriracha Mayo: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Sriracha, lemon juice, minced garlic, and salt. Whisk well until everything is mixed together. Cover the bowl and refrigerate until you are ready to serve.
Prepare the Breading Stations:
- In a shallow bowl, mix the all-purpose flour and Old Bay seasoning until well combined. Set aside.
- In another shallow bowl, crack the two eggs. Whisk them vigorously until fully combined. Set aside.
- In a third shallow bowl, add the panko breadcrumbs. Set it aside too.
Prep the Shrimp: Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels.
Bread the Shrimp:
- Take each shrimp one by one and lightly coat it in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
- Dip the floured shrimp into the beaten eggs, ensuring both sides are coated, then let any extra egg drip back into the bowl.
- Finally, transfer the shrimp to the panko breadcrumbs, coating both sides well. Gently press the breadcrumbs onto the shrimp to make sure they stick.
- Place the breaded shrimp on a plate. Repeat this step until all shrimp are coated.
Air Fry the Shrimp: Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the basket, making sure they do not overlap or overcrowd. Lightly spray the tops of the shrimp with more cooking spray.
Cooking Time: Place the basket in the air fryer and cook for 6 minutes. After 6 minutes, check the shrimp. If needed, cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until the shrimp are golden and cooked through.
Serve: Remove the shrimp from the air fryer. Repeat the cooking process with any remaining shrimp. Serve immediately with the Sriracha mayo on the side for dipping.
How to Serve Air Fryer Fried Shrimp with Sriracha Mayo
These crispy shrimp make a fantastic appetizer or main dish. Serve them hot alongside the Sriracha mayo for dipping. Pair with a fresh salad, coleslaw, or rice for a complete meal. They can also be served as a fun snack for game day or parties!
How to Store Air Fryer Fried Shrimp with Sriracha Mayo
If you have any leftover shrimp, let them cool to room temperature. Place the shrimp in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, use the air fryer or oven to restore their crispy texture. Don’t microwave, as it can make them soggy.
Tips to Make Air Fryer Fried Shrimp with Sriracha Mayo
- Pat the shrimp dry before breading to ensure that the coating sticks well.
- Adjust the amount of Sriracha in the mayo to suit your spice preference.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer; cook in batches for the best results.
- For added flavor, marinate the shrimp in your favorite seasonings before breading.
Variation
You can customize the breadcrumbs by mixing in some grated Parmesan cheese for an extra cheesy flavor. You can also switch out Old Bay seasoning for other spices, like Cajun or Italian seasoning, for a different twist!
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
- Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before breading.
What is the best way to tell if the shrimp are fully cooked?
- The shrimp should be opaque and golden brown when fully cooked. You can also check the internal temperature; it should reach 120°F.
Can I make the Sriracha mayo ahead of time?
- Yes! The Sriracha mayo can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Just give it a stir before serving.
Air Fryer Fried Shrimp with Sriracha Mayo
Ingredients
For the Sriracha Mayo
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 tablespoon Sriracha plus more to taste, up to 1 tablespoon Adjust for spiciness
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- to taste Salt
For the Breaded Shrimp
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
- 2 large eggs, whisked
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 pound large, uncooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
Instructions
Make the Sriracha Mayo
- In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Sriracha, lemon juice, minced garlic, and salt. Whisk well until mixed. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Prepare the Breading Stations
- In a shallow bowl, mix the all-purpose flour and Old Bay seasoning until well combined. Set aside.
- In another shallow bowl, crack the two eggs and whisk them vigorously until fully combined. Set aside.
- In a third shallow bowl, add the panko breadcrumbs. Set aside.
Prep the Shrimp
- Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels.
Bread the Shrimp
- Take each shrimp one by one and lightly coat in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
- Dip the floured shrimp into the beaten eggs, ensuring both sides are coated. Let any extra egg drip back into the bowl.
- Transfer the shrimp to the panko breadcrumbs, coating both sides well. Gently press the breadcrumbs onto the shrimp to make sure they stick.
- Place the breaded shrimp on a plate. Repeat until all shrimp are coated.
Air Fry the Shrimp
- Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap.
- Lightly spray the tops of the shrimp with more cooking spray.
- Cook in the air fryer for 6 minutes. Check for doneness, and cook an additional 1 to 2 minutes if needed until golden.
Serve
- Remove the shrimp from the air fryer and serve immediately with Sriracha mayo on the side for dipping.