Air Fryer Butterflied Shrimp Recipe

Shrimp: Butterflied shrimp are split open and flattened, allowing for even cooking and better seasoning absorption.

Olive oil: Adds moisture and helps the seasoning stick to the shrimp.

Garlic powder: Provides a rich, savory flavor that complements the shrimp.

Paprika: Adds a mild, smoky flavor and a touch of color to the dish.

When butterflying the shrimp, make sure to use a sharp knife to carefully slice along the back, removing the vein. This not only ensures a clean presentation but also allows the seasoning to penetrate deeper, enhancing the overall flavor.

• shrimp - Substitute with scallops: Scallops have a similar texture and mild flavor, making them a good alternative for shrimp in this recipe.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, which works well for air frying.

• garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder provides a similar depth of flavor and can be used in the same quantity.

• paprika - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper adds a bit of heat and a similar color, but use less if you want to avoid too much spiciness.

• To store your butterflied shrimp, allow them to cool completely at room temperature.

• Transfer the cooled shrimp to an airtight container.

• Place a piece of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

• Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• For freezing, arrange the cooled shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

• Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 1-2 hours, or until the shrimp are frozen solid.

• Transfer the frozen shrimp to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.

• Label the container with the date and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

• When ready to enjoy, thaw the shrimp in the refrigerator overnight.

• Reheat the shrimp in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes, or until heated through.

• Serve with fresh lemon wedges and enjoy your delicious butterflied shrimp once again!

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Lightly spray the basket with olive oil to prevent sticking.
  3. Place the leftover shrimp in a single layer in the basket.
  4. Heat for 3-4 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even reheating.
  5. Check for desired warmth and crispiness before serving.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
  3. Spread the shrimp out in a single layer on the baking sheet.
  4. Cover the shrimp lightly with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out.
  5. Bake for about 7-10 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are warming evenly.
  6. Remove the foil for the last 2 minutes if you want them to regain some crispiness.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the pan.
  3. Place the shrimp in the skillet in a single layer.
  4. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are heated through.
  5. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even reheating.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place the shrimp on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
  3. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through.
  4. Stir or flip the shrimp to ensure even heating.
  5. Continue microwaving in 30-second intervals if needed, until the shrimp are heated through.

• Air fryer: This is the primary cooking device used to cook the butterflied shrimp to a crispy perfection.

• Mixing bowl: Used to toss the shrimp with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

• Measuring spoons: Essential for accurately measuring the olive oil, garlic powder, and paprika.

• Tongs: Useful for placing the shrimp in the air fryer basket and for shaking the basket halfway through cooking.

• Cutting board: Provides a clean surface for preparing and butterflying the shrimp if not already done.

• Knife: Used for butterflying the shrimp if they are not pre-butterflied.

• Serving plate: For presenting the cooked shrimp with lemon wedges.

• Lemon squeezer: Optional but helpful for squeezing fresh lemon juice over the shrimp before serving.

Preheat while prepping: Preheat the air fryer while you butterfly the shrimp and mix the seasonings to save time.

Use pre-minced garlic: Opt for pre-minced garlic instead of fresh to cut down on prep time.

Batch cooking: Cook multiple batches of shrimp if needed, but ensure they are in a single layer for even cooking.

Quick clean-up: Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper to make clean-up faster.

Prep ahead: Butterfly and season the shrimp ahead of time, then store them in the fridge until ready to cook.