Why Make This Recipe
Air Fryer Popcorn Shrimp is a quick and delicious way to enjoy shrimp in a healthier way. Using an air fryer allows you to achieve that perfect crispy texture without deep frying. This recipe is perfect for a snack, appetizer, or a fun meal. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be customized with your favorite dipping sauce.
How to Make Air Fryer Popcorn Shrimp
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons Old Bay seasoning
- 1/2 cup flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1-2 tablespoons sriracha (adjust to taste)
- Cooking spray
Directions
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with Old Bay seasoning.
- Set up a breading station: one dish with flour seasoned with salt and pepper, one with beaten eggs, and one with the seasoned panko.
- Dredge each shrimp in flour, dip it in the beaten eggs, and then coat it with the panko mixture.
- Place the breaded shrimp in the air fryer basket in a single layer and spray with cooking spray.
- Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- For the sriracha mayo, mix the mayonnaise and sriracha in a small bowl.
- Serve the shrimp hot with the sriracha mayo for dipping.
How to Serve Air Fryer Popcorn Shrimp
Serve the popcorn shrimp immediately after frying for the best texture. Pair it with sriracha mayo for dipping or your favorite sauce. You can serve it on a platter with some lemon wedges and fresh herbs for a nice presentation.
How to Store Air Fryer Popcorn Shrimp
If you have leftovers, store the shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain that crispiness.
Tips to Make Air Fryer Popcorn Shrimp
- Make sure to space the shrimp in the air fryer basket, so they cook evenly.
- Adjust the sriracha in the dipping sauce to suit your spice preference.
- Try adding other seasonings to the panko breadcrumbs for extra flavor, like garlic powder or paprika.
Variation
You can easily change the flavor of these shrimp by using different seasonings in the breading. Cooking them with Cajun seasoning or Italian herbs can give them a totally different taste.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure they are fully thawed, peeled, and deveined before cooking.
2. Is the air fryer necessary for this recipe?
Using an air fryer is recommended for the best crispy texture, but you can also bake them in a conventional oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes.
3. What if I don’t have panko breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs can be used, but they may not give the same crunch.