Crispy Old Bay Shrimp

This air fryer Old Bay shrimp recipe transforms regular shrimp into a mouthwatering delicacy in just minutes. The combination of Old Bay seasoning and the air fryer's magic creates perfectly cooked shrimp with a beautiful balance of flavors that will impress your family or dinner guests without hours in the kitchen.

I discovered this recipe during a beach vacation when I needed a quick appetizer for unexpected guests. The shrimp disappeared so quickly that I now make double batches whenever friends come over. The Old Bay seasoning brings me back to childhood summers on the Chesapeake Bay.

• Large shrimp 2 pounds peeled and deveined: the larger size prevents overcooking and provides a juicier bite
• Olive oil 1 tablespoon: helps the seasoning stick and promotes even browning
• Old Bay seasoning 1 1/2 tablespoons: the star ingredient that provides that classic seafood flavor profile with a hint of heat
• Fresh lemon juice 1 tablespoon: brightens the flavor and balances the seasoning
• Fresh parsley 1 tablespoon chopped: adds color and a fresh herb finish

How To Make Air Fryer Old Bay Shrimp

Prepare the shrimp:

Combine the raw shrimp in a large mixing bowl with olive oil, Old Bay seasoning, and fresh lemon juice. Toss gently but thoroughly until each shrimp is evenly coated with the seasoning mixture. The oil helps the seasoning adhere while promoting that perfect exterior texture.

Arrange in air fryer:

Place the seasoned shrimp in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding which would create steam instead of that desirable crisp exterior. Work in batches if necessary for the best results.

Air fry to perfection:

Set your air fryer to 360°F and cook for 8 minutes. The shrimp will turn pink and slightly curled when done properly. For extra large shrimp, you may need an additional 1 to 2 minutes of cooking time.

Garnish and serve:

Transfer the hot shrimp to a serving platter and immediately sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley. The residual heat will release the herb's aromatic oils, enhancing both presentation and flavor.

Old Bay seasoning is my absolute favorite part of this recipe. The distinctive blend of paprika, black pepper, salt, and secret spices reminds me of summers with my grandmother who would make similar shrimp dishes for family gatherings. When that familiar aroma fills the kitchen, everyone knows something special is coming to the table.

Temperature Matters

The key to perfect air fryer shrimp is cooking at the right temperature. At 360°F, the shrimp cook quickly enough to prevent drying out while still allowing the exterior to develop a slight crust. Lower temperatures result in rubbery shrimp while higher temperatures can burn the delicate spices in the Old Bay seasoning before the shrimp are fully cooked.

Storing Leftovers

Refrigerate any leftover shrimp in an airtight container for up to two days. While they remain safe to eat longer, the texture begins to deteriorate quickly after that. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer at 330°F for just 2 minutes. This gentle reheating prevents the shrimp from becoming tough or rubbery.

Serving Suggestions

These shrimp make an excellent appetizer served with cocktail sauce or remoulade, but they truly shine as a main course. Pair them with a simple rice pilaf and roasted vegetables for a complete meal. They also work beautifully on top of a salad with a light vinaigrette or tucked into warm tortillas for quick and flavorful tacos.

The History of Old Bay

Old Bay seasoning originated in Baltimore, Maryland in 1939 when Gustav Brunn created the special blend for seasoning crabs and seafood. The distinctive yellow and blue tin has become iconic in American cooking, especially along the East Coast. While traditionally used for steamed crabs, the versatile spice blend works magic on all seafood, particularly shrimp. Using it in this air fryer recipe honors the traditional flavor while employing modern cooking technology.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I know when the shrimp are fully cooked?

Shrimp are fully cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F. Visually, they'll turn from translucent to opaque pink and will curl into a loose 'C' shape. Overcooked shrimp form a tight 'O' shape and become rubbery, so watch them carefully.

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this dish?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but they should be completely thawed before cooking. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or place in a colander under cold running water for a quicker option. Pat them dry thoroughly before adding the oil and seasonings for best results.

→ What can I serve with Old Bay shrimp?

These shrimp pair wonderfully with rice pilaf, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. They also make an excellent appetizer served with cocktail sauce or garlic aioli. For a complete meal, try serving alongside corn on the cob and coleslaw for a seafood feast.

→ Can I adjust the level of spiciness?

Absolutely! If you prefer milder shrimp, reduce the Old Bay seasoning to 1 tablespoon. For spicier shrimp, increase to 2 tablespoons or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also create a custom blend by mixing Old Bay with garlic powder, paprika, or other seasonings you enjoy.

→ Do I need to flip the shrimp while air frying?

While not absolutely necessary due to the air fryer's circulation, giving the basket a shake halfway through cooking ensures more even browning. If your air fryer tends to cook unevenly, you can flip the shrimp at the 4-minute mark for the most consistent results.

→ What's the best way to reheat leftover shrimp?

The air fryer is ideal for reheating leftover shrimp. Preheat to 320°F (slightly lower than cooking temperature) and heat for just 2-3 minutes until warmed through. This maintains their texture without overcooking. Alternatively, you can enjoy them cold in a salad or wrap.