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Air fryer buffalo shrimp offers a modern twist on a classic favorite, blending the fiery zest of buffalo sauce with the ease and health benefits of air frying.

Originating from the love of buffalo wings, this recipe takes shrimp to new heights, creating a dish that’s both mouthwateringly spicy and delightfully crispy.

Using an air fryer not only minimizes the oil content, making it a healthier option but also delivers an unbeatable crispness that’s hard to achieve with traditional frying methods.

Perfect for appetizers, parties, or a quick dinner, air fryer buffalo shrimp is a testament to how we can enjoy the foods we love in a way that’s both healthier and faster.

Why You’ll Choose Air Fryer Buffalo Shrimp

Air fryer buffalo shrimp is a great meal for anyone looking to enjoy a classic flavor in a new, healthier way. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with this recipe:

Cooking Time: Ready in under 20 minutes, it’s a quick and easy option for busy days.
Nutritional Benefits: Significantly less oil means fewer calories and less fat without sacrificing flavor.
Ideal for Air Frying: Shrimp cooks quickly and becomes wonderfully crispy in an air fryer, making it the perfect candidate for this cooking method.
Flavor Retention: The air fryer locks in the spicy buffalo sauce, ensuring each shrimp is perfectly coated and packed with flavor.
Versatility: Serve them as an appetizer, a party snack, or add them to your favorite salad for a protein boost.

With these benefits, air fryer buffalo shrimp not only delivers on taste and convenience but also aligns with a healthier lifestyle.

Air Fryer Buffalo Shrimp

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Air Fryer Buffalo Shrimp brings a spicy, irresistible twist to your table, offering a crunch that’s unmatched. It’s the kind of meal you’ll crave again and again, thanks to its simple preparation and bold flavors.

Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x

Instructions

1. Preparation of Shrimp:

Begin by thoroughly washing the shrimp under cold running water. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure there’s no excess moisture, as this will help the seasoning to stick better and result in a crisper finish.
Ensure the shrimp are peeled and deveined. Leaving the tail on is optional and can make for a nicer presentation if serving as an appetizer.

2. Selecting the Right Shrimp:

Opt for large or jumbo shrimp for this recipe. Larger shrimp not only provide a better texture but also hold up well against the bold flavors of the buffalo sauce.

3. Seasoning the Shrimp:

In a mixing bowl, combine the buffalo sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a uniform marinade.
Add the shrimp to the bowl and gently toss them until they are evenly coated with the marinade. For an extra layer of flavor, let the shrimp marinate in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes.

4. Variety of Seasoning Options:

For a simpler taste, shrimp can be seasoned with just salt and pepper before being tossed in buffalo sauce after cooking.
Alternatively, experiment with adding a teaspoon of honey to the marinade for a sweet and spicy combination or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.

5. Setting the Air Fryer:

Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature is crucial for getting the shrimp crispy and perfectly cooked in a short amount of time.

6. Arranging the Shrimp:

Place the shrimp in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring there’s space between them for optimal air circulation. This might need to be done in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.

7. Cooking Time and Temperature:

Cook the shrimp at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. The exact time might vary depending on the size of the shrimp and your air fryer model, so adjust accordingly.

8. Why Temperature and Time Are Crucial:

The high cooking temperature paired with the right cooking time ensures the shrimp become crispy on the outside while remaining tender and juicy on the inside. Overcooking can lead to rubbery shrimp, so keep an eye on the cooking process.

9. Ensuring Even Cooking:

Flipping the shrimp halfway through the cooking time promotes even cooking and browning. This step is essential for achieving that desirable crispy texture.

10. Serving Ideas:

Serve the buffalo shrimp hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and a side of blue cheese dressing for dipping. They make a great appetizer on their own or can be served over a bed of lettuce for a spicy shrimp salad.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cooking in batches is better than risking unevenly cooked shrimp.
The remaining buffalo sauce from the bowl can be heated up and drizzled over the shrimp for extra flavor.
Adjust the spiciness to suit your preference. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility, allowing you to make it as mild or as fiery as you like.

Author: Suborna Tanchangya
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Air Frying
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

Serving Size: About 6-8 shrimp per serving
Calories: Approximately 200 per serving
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 24g
Cholesterol: 180mg

Keywords: hooters buffalo shrimp air fryer recipe

Equipment Needed

Air Fryer
Mixing bowl
Tongs
Measuring cups and spoons

How to Reheat Air Fryer Buffalo Shrimp in the Air Fryer

Reheating air fryer buffalo shrimp in the air fryer is a fantastic way to bring back that crispy texture and bold flavor without drying them out. Here’s a step-by-step guide to doing it right:

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F. This temperature is ideal for reheating without overcooking.
Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure they’re not overlapping to ensure even reheating.
Heat for 2-3 minutes. This is usually enough time to warm them through and recrisp the exterior.
Check for warmth. If they’re not quite heated to your liking, you can give them another minute, but be careful not to overdo it.

Reheating air fryer buffalo shrimp this way helps maintain their delicious taste and texture, making them nearly as good as when they were first cooked.

Serving and Pairing Ideas

Air fryer buffalo shrimp are incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous exciting ways:

With Dips: Serve with a side of blue cheese or ranch dressing and some celery sticks for a classic pairing.
In Tacos: Tuck the shrimp into soft tortillas with some slaw and avocado for a spicy shrimp taco night.
Over Salad: Scatter them over a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette for a protein-packed meal.
With Grains: Serve alongside quinoa or rice, drizzled with extra buffalo sauce for a hearty dish.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Buffalo Shrimp

Air fryer buffalo shrimp is not just a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods; it also guarantees a crispy, delightful texture that’s hard to beat. Here are some tips to ensure perfection every time:

Don’t Overcrowd: Spread the shrimp in a single layer with some space between each piece. This ensures even cooking and crispiness.
Preheat Your Air Fryer: A preheated air fryer helps the shrimp start cooking immediately, enhancing their texture.
Use a Light Spray of Oil: Even though you’re using less oil, a light spray can help achieve that perfect crisp.
Shake or Turn Midway: This ensures all sides get evenly crispy.
Monitor Closely: Cooking times can vary based on the air fryer model, so keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.
High Temperature for Short Time: Cooking at a high temperature for a shorter period locks in flavor and ensures a crispy exterior without drying out the shrimp.

By following these tips, you’ll avoid common pitfalls like soggy or unevenly cooked shrimp, ensuring a delicious outcome every time.

See more: Pollo Asado Air Fryer Recipe

FAQs about Hooters Buffalo Shrimp Air Fryer Recipe

What size air fryer do I need for a family of four?

For a family of four, an air fryer with a capacity of 5 to 7 quarts is ideal. It offers ample space to cook meals for the entire family in one go.

Can I cook frozen foods in my air fryer?

Yes, you can cook frozen foods in your air fryer. There’s no need to thaw them first, but you may need to adjust cooking times slightly to ensure they’re fully heated through.

How do I prevent food from sticking to the air fryer basket?

To prevent food from sticking, lightly coat your food with oil or use a non-stick spray on the basket before cooking. This creates a barrier that helps prevent sticking.

Is it necessary to preheat the air fryer?

While not always necessary, preheating your air fryer for a few minutes before adding your food can help achieve a more even cook and a crispier texture.

Final Words

Choosing air fryer buffalo shrimp means opting for a dish that’s not only quick and flavorful but also a healthier take on a beloved favorite. The air fryer offers a fantastic way to enjoy the crispiness we all love without the drawbacks of traditional frying.

Remember, part of the fun is experimenting with flavors and finding what works best for you. Whether it’s tweaking the buffalo sauce or playing with different seasonings, each batch can be a new adventure.

So, get the process right way, enjoy your cooking, and treat yourself to this delightful dish that promises to be a hit every time.

See all in at KitGiz for Air Fryer recipes.