We’ve all craved that spicy Buffalo kick, and our air fryer Buffalo Shrimp recipe delivers it with a healthier twist. Drawing from the iconic flavors of Buffalo, New York, we’ve transformed tender shrimp into a crispy delight that’s perfect for quick meals.
This easy adaptation keeps things light yet packed with zest, making it a go-to for busy nights. Join us as we explore how simple ingredients create bold, irresistible results.
Ingredients
In our Buffalo Shrimp Recipe Air Fryer, we start with simple, high-quality ingredients that deliver bold flavors while keeping things light and healthy. Below, we’ve listed them in the order they’re used, including precise measurements and any necessary prep notes to ensure your cooking process is seamless.
- Shrimp: 1 pound of large shrimp (peeled and deveined) – We recommend fresh or thawed frozen shrimp for the best texture in the air fryer.
- Buffalo Sauce: ½ cup of hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot) mixed with 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter – Prepare this ahead by whisking together in a bowl for that signature zesty kick.
- Breading Mixture: ½ cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and ½ teaspoon of salt – Combine these dry ingredients in a shallow dish; this coating helps achieve a crispy exterior without deep-frying.
- Oil for Air Frying: 1 tablespoon of olive oil or cooking spray – Lightly coat the shrimp to promote even crisping in the air fryer.
- Optional Garnishes: ¼ cup of chopped celery and ¼ cup of crumbled blue cheese – Add these after cooking for a fresh, cooling contrast that enhances the dish’s vibrant flavors.
These ingredients make it easy to whip up a delicious, air-fried version of our Buffalo Shrimp that’s perfect for quick weeknight dinners.
Tools and Equipment
After gathering our fresh ingredients for the Buffalo Shrimp Recipe Air Fryer, we need the right tools to ensure a seamless cooking process. These essentials help us achieve that perfect crispy texture while keeping preparation quick and efficient.
To make this recipe, here’s a list of the key tools we’ll use, organized by their role in the steps:
- Air Fryer: Our primary appliance for this dish, the air fryer cooks the shrimp to a golden, crispy finish in just minutes. We recommend a model with a basket that’s at least 5 quarts to accommodate a full pound of shrimp without overcrowding.
- Mixing Bowls: Two medium-sized bowls—one for the breading mixture and another for the shrimp coating—allow us to keep things organized. Opt for glass or stainless steel for easy mixing and cleanup.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision is key for flavors, so we’ll use a set of these to measure out ingredients like flour, spices, and hot sauce accurately.
- Tongs: Essential for safely flipping and removing the shrimp from the air fryer basket, ensuring even cooking and preventing burns.
- Cutting Board and Knife: A sturdy cutting board paired with a sharp knife helps us quickly prep the shrimp by peeling and deveining if needed.
For quick reference, here’s a simple table comparing the must-have tools and their approximate costs based on standard US market averages, which can help with budgeting your kitchen setup:
| Tool | Estimated Cost (USD) | Why It’s Essential for Our Buffalo Shrimp Recipe Air Fryer |
|---|---|---|
| Air Fryer | $50–$150 | Delivers the crispy, healthy fry without oil mess. |
| Mixing Bowls (Set) | $10–$20 | Facilitates even coating for bold, zesty flavors. |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | $5–$15 | Ensures accurate measurements for consistent results. |
| Tongs | $5–$10 | Provides safe handling during the air-frying process. |
| Cutting Board and Knife | $10–$25 | Speeds up prep work for peeled and deveined shrimp. |
With these tools in hand, we’re all set to move forward and transform our ingredients into a flavorful, air-fried delight.
Instructions
We guide you through the simple, step-by-step process to prepare our zesty Buffalo Shrimp in the air fryer, ensuring a crispy texture and bold flavors that make this dish a weeknight favorite.
Prep the Shrimp
First, we rinse 1 pound of large shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture for optimal crispiness. In a medium mixing bowl, we combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt, then toss the shrimp in this breading mixture until evenly coated, shaking off any excess for a light, golden crust.
Make the Buffalo Sauce
We start by melting 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat for about 2 minutes until fully liquefied. Next, we stir in 1/2 cup of hot sauce—such as Frank’s RedHot for authentic Buffalo flavor—along with 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce and a pinch of cayenne pepper, heating the mixture for another 1-2 minutes until it simmers and the flavors meld into a tangy, spicy sauce that will coat the shrimp perfectly.
Air Fry the Shrimp
We preheat the air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes to ensure even cooking. Lightly spray the breaded shrimp with cooking oil spray, then arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket, avoiding overcrowding for maximum crispiness. We air fry the shrimp for 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through with tongs, until they turn golden brown and develop a crispy exterior with a juicy, tender inside that locks in the bold, zesty essence of our Buffalo flavors.
Serve
We toss the freshly air-fried shrimp in the warm Buffalo sauce until fully coated, then transfer them to a serving platter. Garnish with optional chopped celery and crumbled blue cheese for a refreshing crunch and creamy contrast, and serve immediately with carrot sticks or a side of ranch dressing to complement the spicy, irresistible taste of our Buffalo Shrimp.
Conclusion
We’ve shown how our Buffalo Shrimp Recipe Air Fryer delivers bold flavors with minimal effort
It’s a healthier twist on a classic that fits right into your routine
We’re sure you’ll enjoy the crispy results and make it a go-to meal in no time
Frequently Asked Questions
What is air-fried Buffalo Shrimp?
Air-fried Buffalo Shrimp is a healthier twist on the classic Buffalo wings, using shrimp instead. This recipe draws inspiration from Buffalo, New York’s bold flavors, combining zesty hot sauce with a crispy breading. It’s quick to prepare, ideal for weeknight dinners, and offers a lighter alternative to deep-fried versions while keeping that signature spicy taste.
What ingredients are needed for air-fried Buffalo Shrimp?
You’ll need 1 pound of peeled and deveined large shrimp, a homemade Buffalo sauce (made from hot sauce, melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, and cayenne pepper), a breading mix of flour and spices, and a light oil spray. Optional garnishes include chopped celery, blue cheese, and sides like carrot sticks or ranch dressing. All ingredients are simple and easy to find for robust, healthy flavors.
How do I prepare air-fried Buffalo Shrimp?
Start by rinsing and drying the shrimp, then coat them in a seasoned flour mixture. Make the Buffalo sauce by mixing melted butter with hot sauce and spices. Air-fry the coated shrimp at 400°F for 8-10 minutes until crispy. Toss in the warm sauce, garnish with celery and blue cheese, and serve immediately. The whole process takes about 20-30 minutes for a delicious meal.
What tools are required for this recipe?
Essential tools include an air fryer for crispiness, mixing bowls for prep, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, tongs for handling, and a cutting board with a knife for shrimp. These are budget-friendly—air fryers start around $50—and help ensure a seamless cooking experience for this easy recipe.
Is air-fried Buffalo Shrimp a healthy option?
Yes, it’s healthier than traditional fried versions because air frying uses less oil, reducing calories while maintaining crunch. The recipe focuses on fresh shrimp and simple ingredients, providing protein and bold flavors without excess fat. It’s perfect for quick, nutritious meals, but enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Can I make substitutions in the recipe?
Absolutely, for dietary needs. Swap flour for gluten-free alternatives, use Greek yogurt instead of blue cheese for a lighter garnish, or reduce cayenne for less spice. You can also substitute shrimp with chicken if preferred, but adjust cooking times. Experimenting keeps the dish versatile while preserving its zesty essence.