- Prepare the Shrimp:
- If not already done, peel and devein the shrimp, leaving the tails on if you like. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
- Make the Garlic Butter Mixture:
- In a bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Marinate the Shrimp:
- Add the shrimp to the garlic butter mixture and toss to ensure all the shrimp are evenly coated. Let them marinate for about 10-15 minutes at room temperature to enhance the flavor.
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This step helps the shrimp cook evenly and quickly.
- Cook the Shrimp:
- Place the shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you might need to cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Air fry the shrimp for about 6-8 minutes, or until they are pink, opaque, and cooked through. There’s no need to flip them midway through cooking unless your air fryer model requires it.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Once cooked, transfer the shrimp to a serving dish.
- Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for a fresh, herby flavor.
- Serve with lemon wedges on the side for guests to squeeze over their shrimp as desired.
Tips for Perfection:
- Don’t Overcook: Shrimp cook very quickly, especially in an air fryer, and can become tough if overcooked. Start checking them a minute or two before the cooking time ends.
- Uniform Size: Use shrimp that are all about the same size to ensure even cooking.
- Serving Suggestions: Garlic butter shrimp can be served over pasta, rice, or alongside steamed vegetables or a salad for a complete meal.
This air fryer garlic butter shrimp recipe is not only flavorful but also incredibly quick to prepare, making it a perfect dish for both weeknights and entertaining. Enjoy your beautifully cooked shrimp with minimal effort and maximum taste!