When the smell of crispy shrimp cakes fills the kitchen, you can’t help but feel a sense of warmth and joy. I remember one evening, after a long day, I decided to shake up my dinner routine with something fresh and comforting. Enter: these delightful shrimp cakes, which transform simple ingredients into a mouthwatering dish that feels fancy yet easy.
As someone who often finds themselves craving home-cooked meals over fast food, I was thrilled to discover that I could whip these up in a flash, thanks to my trusty air fryer. The combination of Old Bay seasoning and fresh herbs brings out the best in the shrimp, making each bite a flavor-packed experience. Plus, they’re perfect for nights when I want to impress friends or simply treat myself to something special without spending hours in the kitchen.
Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that’s sure to become a weeknight favorite!
Why Air Fryer Fried Shrimp Will Delight You
Crispy texture: The air fryer creates a golden-brown exterior without the excess oil, making each bite satisfyingly crunchy.
Flavor explosion: With Old Bay seasoning and garlic powder, every shrimp cake bursts with bold, savory flavor.
Quick preparation: Simple yet delicious, this recipe saves you time, perfect for busy weeknights.
Versatile dish: Serve them as an appetizer, in tacos, or alongside a refreshing salad—your menu, your choice!
Impress guests: Easy to make but looks gourmet; guests will think you spent hours in the kitchen!
Ingredients for Air Fryer Fried Shrimp
Get ready for a delightful culinary experience with these simple ingredients!
For the Shrimp Cakes
- ½ cup all-purpose flour – Helps bind the cakes together for a perfect texture.
- 1 Tbsp Old Bay seasoning – Adds a wonderful depth of flavor, quintessential for shrimp dishes.
- 1 tsp garlic powder – Brings a savory kick that complements the shrimp beautifully.
- 1 tsp dried parsley – Provides an aromatic touch that freshens up the flavor.
- ½ tsp black pepper – Enhances the overall taste with a subtle hint of spice.
- 1 egg (beaten) – Acts as a binding agent to hold the cake mixture together.
- 1 Tbsp water – Helps to achieve the right consistency in the mixture.
- 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs – Gives the shrimp cakes a crunchy exterior when air-fried.
- cooking spray – Ensures a crisp finish without adding unnecessary oils.
- 10 oz. frozen shrimp (large, thawed) – The star of the dish, providing a delightful seafood experience.
Whether you choose to serve them as appetizers or in a hearty salad, these Air Fryer Fried Shrimp cakes will surely impress your taste buds!
How to Make Air Fryer Fried Shrimp
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Combine ingredients: In a mixing bowl, blend the all-purpose flour, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, dried parsley, and black pepper until evenly mixed. This base will enhance the flavors of your shrimp cakes.
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Add liquids: Pour in the beaten egg and water, combining everything gently until well incorporated. The mixture should feel slightly sticky and cohesive; it’s key for binding!
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Fold in shrimp: Gently fold thawed shrimp along with Italian breadcrumbs into the mixture, ensuring every shrimp is coated with the flavorful blend. Aim for a chunky texture that’ll hold together while cooking.
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Shape cakes: Form the mixture into patties—about the size of your palm—and set them aside on a plate. Aim for a uniform thickness for even cooking.
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Preheat and spray: Heat your air fryer to 375°F and lightly spray the basket with cooking spray. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy golden-brown texture we all crave!
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Air fry cakes: Place the shrimp cakes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, cooking for about 8-10 minutes. Flip halfway through until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Optional: Serve with a zesty dipping sauce for an added flavor kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Air Fryer Fried Shrimp cakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the shrimp mixture and form the cakes up to 24 hours in advance. Simply combine the dry ingredients and liquids, fold in the shrimp, shape them into patties, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain their quality, layer parchment paper between the cakes to avoid sticking. When you’re ready to serve, simply air fry them straight from the refrigerator; no need to thaw! This way, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality shrimp cakes without the last-minute rush.
What to Serve with Air Fryer Fried Shrimp?
Transform your meal with delightful pairings that enhance every bite of these crispy shrimp cakes.
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Zesty Coleslaw: A crunchy and tangy slaw adds a refreshing contrast to the shrimp’s savory richness. The crisp vegetables brighten each mouthful, making it an ideal pairing.
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Garlic Butter Rice: Fluffy rice infused with garlic butter balances the dish perfectly, creating a cozy, comforting element that complements the bold flavors of the shrimp. A spoonful alongside each cake is pure bliss.
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Mediterranean Salad: Fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese provide a vibrant, healthy side, enhancing the overall experience with a burst of color and flavor. This salad refreshes the palate while being light and crispy, unlike the shrimp cakes.
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French Fries: Crispy fries offer a classic pairing that everyone loves. They’re perfect for soaking up any leftover flavors from the shrimp cakes and add a satisfying crunch.
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Lemon Wedges: A simple squeeze of lemon elevates your shrimp cakes, adding a zesty brightness that cuts through the richness, enhancing every delicious bite.
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Iced Tea: A refreshing glass of iced tea makes for a cool beverage to cleanse your palate. Its slight sweetness balances the seasoned shrimp for a perfect dining experience.
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Tartar Sauce: This creamy condiment is a classic companion for seafood, providing a cool dip that complements the warm, crunchy shrimp cakes. Each dip is a taste of heaven!
Experience how these pairings not only complete your meal but also create memorable culinary moments around the dinner table.
Expert Tips for Air Fryer Fried Shrimp
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Thaw Shrimp Properly: Make sure to thaw your shrimp completely to prevent excess moisture and ensure a delicious crust.
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Don’t Overmix: When folding in shrimp and breadcrumbs, mix gently. Overworking can lead to dense cakes instead of light, crispy ones.
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Uniform Size: Shape your shrimp cakes into uniform patties for even cooking. This will help all cakes finish at the same time.
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Preheat Air Fryer: Always preheat your air fryer for about 3-5 minutes; this helps achieve that perfect crispy texture.
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Watch Cooking Time: Since every air fryer varies, keep an eye on the shrimp cakes as they cook to avoid over-browning.
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Serving Suggestion: Pair with a tangy dipping sauce or a fresh salad; it complements the air fryer fried shrimp beautifully!
How to Store and Freeze Air Fryer Fried Shrimp
Fridge: Store leftover shrimp cakes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer to restore their crispiness.
Freezer: Freeze uncooked shrimp cakes on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Cook directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to cooking time.
Reheating: For best results, reheat cooked shrimp cakes in the air fryer at 375°F for 5-7 minutes, until heated through and crispy—no sogginess here!
Air Fryer Fried Shrimp Swaps
Feel free to make this recipe your own with these fun and delicious twists!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives, like almond flour and crushed gluten-free crackers.
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Spicy Kick: Add 1 tsp of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mixture for a zesty kick that will tantalize your taste buds.
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Herb Boost: Mix in fresh herbs like dill or cilantro to amp up the flavor; the fresh aroma adds a lovely scent to the dish.
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Coconut Crunch: Use panko breadcrumbs and toss in some unsweetened shredded coconut for a tropical twist that’s both crunchy and delightful.
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Veggie Addition: Incorporate finely chopped bell peppers or green onions into the shrimp mixture for extra color and a pleasant crunch.
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Seafood Medley: Mix in other seafood, like crab meat or scallops, to enhance the seafood flavor and create a unique blend of textures.
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Baked Option: If you prefer baking, place the formed patties on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes for an equally delicious outcome.
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Dipping Delight: Pair with unique dipping sauces like mango salsa or avocado aioli for a fresh, vibrant complement to your shrimp cakes.
Air Fryer Fried Shrimp Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp should I use?
Absolutely, I recommend using large frozen shrimp, as mentioned in the recipe. They provide the perfect texture and are hearty enough to hold their shape during cooking. Make sure to fully thaw them before mixing to prevent excess moisture, which can lead to soggy shrimp cakes.
How do I store leftover shrimp cakes?
For the best results, store any leftover shrimp cakes in an airtight container in the fridge, where they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat them in the air fryer at 375°F for about 5-7 minutes to bring back that delightful crunch!
Can I freeze uncooked shrimp cakes?
Yes, you can freeze the shrimp cakes! I love this method for meal prep. Simply place the uncooked cakes on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them until firm, about 1-2 hours. Once they are set, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, and they will keep for up to 2 months. When ready to cook, you can fry them directly from frozen, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What should I do if my shrimp cakes are falling apart while cooking?
If your shrimp cakes are falling apart, don’t worry! Next time, try adding a touch more flour or breadcrumbs to help bind them better. Additionally, be careful not to overmix the ingredients; gentle folding helps maintain the structure and avoids dense cakes. If this happens while cooking, gently press the cakes back together with a spatula as they cook.
Are these shrimp cakes suitable for people with allergies?
Always a good question! This specific recipe contains common allergens like shrimp, eggs, and wheat (from flour and breadcrumbs). If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, you might consider swapping the breadcrumbs for a gluten-free alternative and using a substitute for eggs, such as ground flaxseed mixed with water. However, always double-check with your guests about their specific dietary needs, especially regarding seafood allergies.
Crispy Air Fryer Fried Shrimp That Will Wow Your Guests
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, blend the all-purpose flour, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, dried parsley, and black pepper until evenly mixed.
- Pour in the beaten egg and water, combining everything gently until well incorporated.
- Gently fold thawed shrimp along with Italian breadcrumbs into the mixture, ensuring every shrimp is coated.
- Form the mixture into patties and set them aside.
- Heat your air fryer to 375°F and lightly spray the basket with cooking spray.
- Place the shrimp cakes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, cooking for about 8-10 minutes. Flip halfway through.