Air Fryer Buffalo Shrimp Recipe
Craving a spicy kick that’s both healthy and delicious? Our Air Fryer Buffalo Shrimp recipe is here to tantalize your taste buds. This easy, quick, and flavor-packed dish is perfect for seafood enthusiasts looking to savor something both crunchy and succulent. With the magic of the air fryer, you’ll achieve that much-loved crispy texture without excessive oil, making it a delightful treat for any occasion.
Growing up, my family always looked forward to Friday nights because that was when we’d experiment with new recipes together. Discovering this one was a game-changer. We gathered in the kitchen, surrounded by the enticing aroma of buffalo sauce, sharing stories and laughter as we waited for the shrimp to crisp up in the air fryer. It quickly became a treasured tradition we looked forward to each week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is perfect for shrimp lovers who appreciate the delicious combination of spice and crunch. Not only is it fast and simple to prepare, but it also requires minimal clean-up thanks to the air fryer. The balance of flavors in the buffalo sauce keeps things interesting, while the light crispiness makes it a guilt-free indulgence. It’s a versatile dish, ideal for any gathering, appetizer platter, or satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients Notes
Here’s a simple rundown of the key ingredients with ways you can modify as needed. For the best quality, choose fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp. I recommend using wild-caught varieties if possible, as they tend to have better flavor.
- Shrimp: Opt for medium-sized, peeled, and deveined shrimp to save prep time.
- Buffalo Sauce: Stick with a classic hot sauce like Frank’s RedHot for authentic flavor.
- Butter: Unsalted is best, allowing you to control the saltiness of the dish.
- Garlic Powder: Adds a subtle depth of flavor.
- Paprika: Choose smoked paprika for a richer taste.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This ensures that the shrimp will cook evenly and get crispy.
Step 2
In a small saucepan over low heat, melt butter and then whisk in the buffalo sauce until well combined. Add garlic powder and paprika, stirring until the sauce is smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.
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Step 3
Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This step helps in achieving that desired crispiness during cooking.
Step 4
Place the shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 6-8 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are pink and opaque with a slight char.
Step 5
In a large bowl, toss the shrimp with the cooled buffalo sauce. Ensure each piece is well-coated before serving.
Storage Options
Leftover buffalo shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze the cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. Reheat directly from frozen in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes.
Variations & Substitutions
To make this recipe keto-friendly, substitute the buffalo sauce with a low-carb hot sauce. If you’re not fond of too much heat, reduce the amount of buffalo sauce or mix it with a tablespoon of honey for a milder taste. Vegan alternatives include using cauliflower florets instead of shrimp and vegan butter for the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe? Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Ensure they are completely thawed before cooking. Thaw them quickly by placing them in a colander under cold running water for several minutes.
Why is my shrimp not crispy? To achieve optimal crispiness, pat the shrimp dry before cooking and avoid overcrowding the air fryer, allowing hot air to circulate freely around each piece.
What can I serve with Buffalo Shrimp? This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh vegetable platter, celery sticks, and ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. Additionally, consider serving over a bed of greens for a spicy shrimp salad.
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Air Fryer Buffalo Shrimp Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 cups shrimp peeled and deveined
- 0.5 cup buffalo sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter melted
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F.
- In a bowl, mix together the buffalo sauce and melted butter.
- Toss the shrimp in the sauce mixture until coated.
- Place shrimp in the air fryer basket and cook for 8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Serve immediately with your choice of dipping sauce.
Notes
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!
