Air fryer frozen popcorn shrimp turns out crispy and delicious! It’s better than in the microwave and more convenient than an oven. Add it to salad, sandwiches, pasta, or tacos for a quick meal!
There are so many uses for popcorn shrimp that I have gotten into the habit of keeping a pack in my freezer. After reading this, you will do the same.
Want more shrimp recipes? Try air fryer Hooter's buffalo shrimp, honey garlic smoked shrimp, zesty Italian shrimp, or shrimp in garlic wine sauce.
How to Cook Frozen Breaded Shrimp in Air Fryer
Shrimp is a healthy and convenient source of protein. It is low-fat seafood that cooks in just a matter of minutes – especially if you buy the frozen kind.
My go-to is Seapak popcorn shrimp in air fryer because it is full of flavor and extra crunchy without giving you the feeling that you are taking a bite out of beach sand. When I prepare this frozen popcorn shrimp in the air fryer, I fill up the entire bottom of the basket because it will be gone in seconds.
Set the air fryer to 380 degrees Fahrenheit and throw in the frozen popcorn shrimp in a single layer. Give it all a toss after 4 minutes and leave it in for another 4 minutes to get the most satisfying bite.
Can You Eat the Whole Popcorn Shrimp?
There is no reason why you can't eat the entire popcorn shrimp when using frozen shrimp in air fryer. Most frozen brands have already removed the shell and tail so you can just pop them in your mouth.
If you do find a brand that leaves the tail on, you might want to leave the tail on your plate. It can be quite sharp and if not chewed properly can get stuck in your throat.
Recipes Using Frozen Breaded Shrimp
Serve popcorn shrimp with a shrimp dipping sauce and you won't hear anyone complain. But this versatile ready-made ingredient is perfect for a great variety of dishes, too.
It is a great replacement for chicken in many Pan-Asian recipes such as General Tso's popcorn shrimp and crispy sesame popcorn shrimp. But you can also imagine yourself sitting down along the Italian coast with recipes like this popcorn shrimp fettucine alfredo or this garlic pasta with popcorn shrimp.
One of my absolute favorites though are these Bang Bang style shrimp tacos. if you are a fan of fish tacos, definitely give this recipe a try.
What to Eat with Popcorn Shrimp
The recipes above can be eaten as a full meal but you can always add a carbohydrate like rice or french fries to make it more filling. A side of stir-fried vegetables in the same sauce is a delicious and easy low-carb alternative.
When eating as is, I recommend serving it with a dipping sauce. I'm a fan of this sweet chile sauce and would also never turn down a homemade cocktail sauce. Shrimp is one of those foods that everyone loves, and when it comes in breaded form, people love it even more. Show me how you like to enjoy popcorn shrimp!
Recommended Air Fryer Recipes
- 45 Best Air Fryer Frozen Foods List
- Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp (Outback Copycat)
- Air Fryer Frozen Chicken Nuggets
- Air Fryer Frozen Fish Sticks
- Air Fryer Frozen Mozzarella Sticks
Air Fryer Frozen Popcorn Shrimp
Equipment
Ingredients
- Seapak or Gorton's or similar brand of frozen popcorn shrimp
- Cocktail Sauce, for dipping
Instructions
- Add enough frozen popcorn shrimp to cover the bottom of the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Set the temperature to 380 degrees Fahrenheit and the timer to 4 minutes, then stir, and cook an additional 4 minutes until shrimp is crispy and cooked through.
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