Can You Put Frozen Shrimp in the Air Fryer A Quick Guide

Yes, you can safely cook frozen shrimp in the air fryer—no thawing required—for a quick, crispy, and delicious result in under 15 minutes. Just toss the shrimp with a little oil and seasoning, then air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking. Perfect for easy weeknight meals or last-minute appetizers!

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can air fry frozen shrimp—no thawing needed for quick, crispy results.
• Preheat the air fryer to ensure even cooking and optimal texture.
• Pat shrimp dry before seasoning to enhance crispiness and prevent steaming.
• Cook in a single layer to avoid overcrowding and ensure golden, crunchy shrimp.
• Shake the basket halfway through cooking for consistent browning and doneness.
• Use high heat (375–400°F) for 8–12 minutes, adjusting for size and quantity.

Why the Air Fryer Is a Game-Changer for Busy Cooks

Let’s be honest—life gets hectic. Between work, family, and everything in between, who has time to thaw shrimp for dinner? I’ve been there: standing in the kitchen at 6:30 p.m., staring at a bag of frozen shrimp, wondering if I can just toss them in the air fryer and call it a day. The answer? A resounding yes. And not only can you cook frozen shrimp in the air fryer, but you might end up with tastier, juicier results than if you had thawed and sautéed them the traditional way.

The air fryer has become my go-to kitchen gadget for quick, healthy meals. It uses hot air circulation to crisp food with little to no oil, making it perfect for proteins like shrimp. But the real win? You don’t have to plan ahead. No thawing, no waiting—just pop your frozen shrimp in, set the timer, and let the machine work its magic. Whether you’re cooking for one, feeding a family, or prepping for meal prep Sunday, this method saves time and effort without sacrificing flavor.

Can You Put Frozen Shrimp in the Air Fryer? The Short and Sweet Answer

Yes, absolutely. You can cook frozen shrimp in the air fryer directly from the freezer. In fact, it’s one of the most convenient ways to prepare this versatile seafood. But like any cooking method, there are a few tricks to get it just right—so you don’t end up with rubbery or unevenly cooked shrimp.

Why Cooking Frozen Shrimp in the Air Fryer Works

The air fryer’s rapid hot air circulation is ideal for cooking frozen shrimp because it:

• Evaporates surface moisture quickly, preventing sogginess
• Creates a light sear or crisp exterior without oil
• Evenly heats the shrimp, reducing the risk of undercooked centers
• Preserves natural moisture, keeping the shrimp tender

Unlike boiling or steaming frozen shrimp (which can turn them mushy), the air fryer gives you more control over texture. And compared to pan-frying, it’s less messy and uses less oil. I’ve tried both methods, and the air fryer consistently delivers better results with less effort.

What Types of Frozen Shrimp Work Best?

Not all frozen shrimp are created equal. Here’s what to look for:

• Raw, peeled, and deveined: These cook evenly and don’t require extra prep. Look for “IQF” (individually quick frozen) shrimp—they won’t clump together.
• Tail-on or tail-off: Totally up to you. Tail-on adds presentation flair, but tail-off is easier to eat.
• Size matters: Small (51/60 count) and medium (36/40) shrimp cook faster and more evenly. Jumbo (21/25) may need a few extra minutes.
• Pre-cooked vs. raw: Raw shrimp will be pink and opaque when done. Pre-cooked (often gray when frozen) just need reheating—so don’t overcook!

One time, I grabbed a bag of pre-cooked frozen shrimp and air-fried them for 8 minutes at 400°F. They turned tough and chewy. Lesson learned: adjust time based on whether they’re raw or pre-cooked. I now check the label every time.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Cook Frozen Shrimp in the Air Fryer

Now that you know it’s possible, let’s walk through the process. I’ve tested this method dozens of times—on different air fryer models, with various shrimp brands, and for different meal types. Here’s the reliable, no-fail approach I use at home.

Prep: Keep It Simple

You don’t need much. Here’s what I do:

• Remove the frozen shrimp from the bag (no thawing!)
• If they’re clumped together, gently break them apart with your hands or a fork
• Pat them dry with a paper towel—this helps with browning (optional, but recommended)
• Season lightly (more on that below)

Pro tip: Don’t overcrowd the basket. Shrimp need space for hot air to circulate. I usually cook 12–16 oz at a time in my 5.8-quart air fryer. More than that, and they steam instead of fry.

Seasoning: Flavor Without Fuss

Shrimp are naturally sweet and mild, so simple seasonings work best. I keep a go-to mix on hand:

• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• Optional: pinch of cayenne for heat

For a quick marinade, I sometimes toss the shrimp with a little olive oil, lemon juice, and minced garlic before air-frying. But honestly, dry seasoning works just as well—and saves a step.

Cooking Time and Temperature

This is where most people mess up. Too hot or too long = rubbery shrimp. Too low or too short = undercooked. Here’s my tested method:

• Raw frozen shrimp: 400°F for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway
• Pre-cooked frozen shrimp: 350°F for 4–6 minutes (to reheat only)
• Jumbo shrimp (21/25 count): 400°F for 8–10 minutes

I always start at the lower end of the time range. After 6 minutes, I open the basket, flip the shrimp, and check a few. They should be pink and opaque, with a slight sear. If they look translucent or gray, give them another minute.

One thing I’ve noticed: air fryer models vary. My Ninja Foodi cooks faster than my Cosori. So use this as a guide, not a rule. Trust your eyes and nose more than the timer.

Don’t Skip the Flip

Flipping halfway ensures even cooking. Frozen shrimp have a cold center, and the air fryer heats from the outside in. Flipping helps the heat reach all sides. I use tongs or a spatula—just be gentle so you don’t break them.

And if you’re feeling fancy, give them a quick spray with cooking oil at the halfway point. It helps crisp the exterior and carry the seasoning better. But it’s not essential.

Tips for Perfect Results Every Time

Over the years, I’ve picked up a few tricks that make all the difference. These aren’t in the manuals, but they’re the real keys to success.

Use a Light Oil Spray (Optional but Helpful)

I know, I know—air fryers are supposed to be oil-free. But a light spray (about 1/2 tsp per 12 oz shrimp) makes a big difference. It:

• Helps seasoning stick
• Promotes browning and crispness
• Prevents sticking to the basket

I use a refillable oil spray bottle with avocado or olive oil. Just a quick mist over the top layer before cooking. Don’t drown them—just enough to coat.

Check for Doneness, Not Just Time

Every air fryer is different. Every batch of shrimp is different. So don’t rely solely on the timer. Look for these signs:

• Shrimp are opaque white with pink edges
• They curl into a “C” shape (not a tight “O”)
• Texture is firm, not rubbery

I’ve made the mistake of overcooking because “the timer said so.” Now, I check at 6 minutes. If they’re not done, I give them another minute. It’s better to undercook slightly and add time than to ruin them by overcooking.

Drain Excess Liquid (Especially for Clumped Shrimp)

If your shrimp are stuck together, they’ll release more moisture during cooking. That can lead to steaming instead of air-frying. To fix this:

1. Break them apart before cooking
2. After 3 minutes, pause the air fryer and drain any liquid from the basket
3. Resume cooking

I learned this the hard way when I cooked a whole bag of clumped shrimp. They came out soggy and bland. Now I always break them up and drain if needed.

Rest for 1–2 Minutes After Cooking

This might sound silly, but it matters. Letting the shrimp sit for a minute after cooking allows the juices to redistribute. They’ll stay juicier and more tender when you eat them. I just leave them in the basket with the air fryer off.

Clean Your Basket Right After

Shrimp residue can stick to the basket, especially if you used oil. I clean mine with warm, soapy water right after cooking while it’s still warm. A soft sponge works best—no steel wool!

Creative Ways to Use Air-Fried Frozen Shrimp

Once you’ve mastered the basics, the possibilities are endless. Here are some of my favorite ways to use air-fried shrimp—quick, delicious, and perfect for weeknights.

1. Shrimp Tacos

My go-to weeknight dinner. I air-fry frozen shrimp with taco seasoning, then pile them into corn tortillas with:

• Shredded cabbage
• Diced avocado
• Lime crema (sour cream + lime juice + garlic)
• Fresh cilantro

Total time: 15 minutes. No thawing, no mess. I even skip the pan-frying step—the air fryer gives them just enough char.

2. Shrimp Pasta (One-Pot Wonder)

Boil pasta in salted water. While it cooks, air-fry frozen shrimp with garlic and red pepper flakes. Drain the pasta, toss with butter, lemon juice, and the cooked shrimp. Add a splash of pasta water to create a light sauce. Done in 20 minutes.

I love this for date night—it feels fancy but takes minimal effort.

3. Shrimp Stir-Fry (No Wok Needed)

Air-fry shrimp first (400°F, 7 minutes). Then, sauté frozen stir-fry veggies in a skillet with soy sauce and ginger. Combine everything at the end. Serve over rice or cauliflower rice.

Pro tip: I keep a bag of frozen stir-fry mix in the freezer. It’s cheaper than buying fresh and just as good.

4. Shrimp Salad (Cold or Warm)

Air-fry shrimp, then chill them for 10 minutes. Toss with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette. Or serve warm over a grain bowl with quinoa and roasted veggies.

This is my favorite meal prep move. I cook a big batch on Sunday and use it all week.

5. Shrimp Quesadillas

Air-fry shrimp with taco seasoning. Spread on tortillas with shredded cheese, fold, and toast in a skillet (or air fryer!) until golden. Serve with salsa and guacamole.

My kids love these. And I love that I can use frozen shrimp without anyone noticing.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even with the best intentions, things can go wrong. Here are the top mistakes I’ve made—and how to avoid them.

Mistake #1: Overcrowding the Basket

It’s tempting to cook more at once. But too many shrimp = poor air circulation = steamed, not crisped. The fix? Cook in batches. I usually do 12 oz at a time. It takes 7 minutes per batch—worth the wait.

Mistake #2: Forgetting to Flip

Without flipping, one side stays pale and soft. The other gets overcooked. I set a timer on my phone for halfway through. No more forgotten flips!

Mistake #3: Using Too Much Oil

A little oil helps, but too much causes smoking and soggy results. I stick to 1/2 tsp per 12 oz shrimp. And I always use a spray bottle—no pouring!

Mistake #4: Not Adjusting for Pre-Cooked Shrimp

Pre-cooked frozen shrimp only need reheating. If you cook them like raw shrimp, they’ll dry out. I now check the label first. If it says “pre-cooked” or “cooked and frozen,” I reduce time and temp.

Mistake #5: Skipping the Pat-Dry Step

Wet shrimp steam instead of fry. I always pat them dry with a paper towel before seasoning. It takes 30 seconds and makes a huge difference.

Mistake #6: Ignoring Air Fryer Variability

My first air fryer (a $50 model) cooked shrimp in 8 minutes. My current one (a $100 model) does it in 6. Always start with less time and add as needed. Don’t assume your air fryer works like mine.

Air-Fried Shrimp: Cooking Time & Temperature Reference

Here’s a quick-reference table I use at home. Print it out and stick it to your fridge!

Shrimp Type	Weight/Count	Temp (°F)	Time (min)	Notes
Raw, peeled, deveined	12 oz (36/40 count)	400	6–8	Flip halfway; pat dry first
Raw, jumbo	12 oz (21/25 count)	400	8–10	May need extra minute
Pre-cooked	12 oz (any size)	350	4–6	Reheat only; avoid overcooking
Clumped (raw)	12 oz	400	7–9	Break apart; drain liquid at 3 min
Seasoned (raw)	12 oz	400	6–8	Light oil spray recommended

Remember: these are guidelines. Always check for doneness. And if your air fryer runs hot or cold, adjust accordingly.

Final Thoughts: Yes, You Can—And You Should

So, can you put frozen shrimp in the air fryer? Without a doubt. It’s one of the easiest, fastest, and most reliable ways to cook this delicious protein. No thawing, no mess, no guesswork. Just delicious, restaurant-quality shrimp in under 10 minutes.

I’ve used this method for everything—from quick weeknight dinners to last-minute appetizers for guests. My friends are always surprised when I tell them the shrimp was frozen. “No way!” they say. “These taste like they came from a seafood restaurant.”

The key is simplicity. Don’t overcomplicate it. Season well, don’t overcrowd, flip halfway, and check for doneness. That’s it. The air fryer does the rest.

And the best part? You’re not limited to plain shrimp. Use them in tacos, pasta, salads, stir-fries, or just enjoy them with a squeeze of lemon and a side of cocktail sauce. The possibilities are endless—and all start with that bag of frozen shrimp in your freezer.

Next time you’re short on time or just don’t feel like cooking, remember: your air fryer and your freezer are your best allies. Pop in those frozen shrimp, set the timer, and relax. Dinner is on its way—no stress, no fuss, just flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you put frozen shrimp in the air fryer without thawing?

Yes, you can cook frozen shrimp directly in the air fryer without thawing. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook for 8–10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even results.

How long should you cook frozen shrimp in an air fryer?

Cook frozen shrimp in the air fryer for 8–10 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Flip or shake the basket halfway to ensure crispy, evenly cooked shrimp.

Do you need to use oil when air frying frozen shrimp?

Lightly spraying or tossing frozen shrimp with oil (like avocado or olive oil) helps achieve a crispier texture. However, pre-seasoned or breaded frozen shrimp may not need extra oil.

Can you put breaded frozen shrimp in the air fryer?

Yes, breaded frozen shrimp work well in the air fryer. Cook at 390°F (200°C) for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway, for a crispy, golden finish without deep frying.

What’s the best way to prevent frozen shrimp from sticking in the air fryer?

Use a light oil spray or parchment liner to prevent sticking. Avoid overcrowding the basket to ensure proper airflow and even cooking.

Can you cook frozen shrimp in the air fryer if it’s pre-cooked?

Yes, pre-cooked frozen shrimp only need 4–6 minutes at 375°F (190°C) in the air fryer to reheat and crisp up. Monitor closely to avoid overcooking.