Easy Air Fryer Shrimp Tacos
Air fryer shrimp tacos are one of the easiest ways to get a fresh, flavorful dinner on the table in under 15 minutes. Juicy, seasoned shrimp cook in the air fryer in just minutes, then are tucked into warm tortillas and topped with your favorite slaw for a quick meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. If you’re looking for an easy shrimp taco recipe that’s packed with flavor but doesn’t require much effort, this is the recipe to make.
If you know me, you know I always have frozen shrimp in the freezer because it’s one of the fastest proteins to turn into dinner. I make these air fryer shrimp tacos regularly, usually paired with my creamy cilantro lime slaw or red cabbage slaw, because together they create a meal that tastes like it took much more effort than it actually did. Whether you use your favorite taco seasoning or the homemade blend in the recipe card, this is one of those dinners that’s easy enough to make even on the nights when cooking is the last thing you want to do.
Love taco night? Be sure to try my Buffalo Shrimp Tacos, BBQ Salmon Tacos, Buffalo Salmon Tacos, and Black Bean Broccoli Tacos. They’re all easy weeknight dinners packed with flavor and ready in about 30 minutes or less.
Ingredient spotlight
- Shrimp – I recommend using large shrimp that are already peeled, deveined, and tail-off to make this recipe as quick and easy as possible. I almost always use frozen shrimp because they’re easy to keep on hand and can be thawed in about 30 to 45 minutes, making these tacos perfect for busy weeknights.
- Taco seasoning – Use your favorite store-bought taco seasoning or the homemade spice blend in the recipe card. Both work well, so use whichever is easiest for you.
Step by step instructions
Add shrimp and seasoning to a bowl and stir well to coat the shrimp well. Add taco seasoned shrimp to air fryer basket. Ensure the shrimp are in a single layer so they will cook evenly. Cook at 375F for 6 minutes (up to 8 minutes depending on how large your shrimp is and the power of your air fryer). 
Assemble your tacos and enjoy.
Tips for success
- Season the shrimp before cooking. Toss the shrimp with the taco seasoning before adding them to the air fryer so every piece is evenly coated. If you’re trying to minimize dishes, you can season them right in the air fryer basket.
- Cooking from frozen? Air fry the shrimp at 400°F for about 10 minutes. I like to let them thaw most of the way first, then toss them with the seasoning before finishing the cooking. A drizzle of oil can help the spices stick.
- Know when the shrimp are done. Perfectly cooked shrimp form a loose “C” shape and are opaque throughout. If they curl into a tight “O,” they’ve likely started to overcook.
10 Minute Air Fryer Shrimp Tacos
Ingredients
- ½ tablespoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon oregano
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and de-veined
- 8 tortillas - I used almond flour tortillas
Instructions
- Add shrimp to a large bowl and add spices on top. Stir well.½ tablespoon chili powder, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon ground cumin, ½ teaspoon smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon sea salt, ¼ teaspoon oregano, 1 pound shrimp, peeled and de-veined
- Transfer seasoned shrimp to the air fryer and cook at 375F for 6 minutes.
- Once cooked, add shrimp to tortillas, salads or on rice and beans.8 tortillas
Equipment
Recipe Notes
- Use peeled, deveined shrimp. Tail-off shrimp are the easiest option, but if your shrimp have tails, remove them before serving.
- Adjust the cooking time based on the size of your shrimp. Smaller shrimp cook much faster than large shrimp, so start checking early to avoid overcooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer. If you’re doubling the recipe, cook the shrimp in batches so they cook evenly.
- Warm the tortillas before serving. Wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for about 20 seconds to make them soft and easy to fold.
Nutrition Information
Ways to Serve Air Fryer Shrimp
These seasoned air fryer shrimp are delicious in more than just tacos. Try serving them:
- In warm tortillas with your favorite slaw and toppings.
- Over rice with black beans or pinto beans for an easy shrimp bowl.
- On top of a salad for a quick, protein packed lunch.
- In lettuce wraps for a lighter option.
- Chopped over nachos with cheese, salsa, and avocado.
Common questions
What’s the best way to thaw frozen shrimp?
For the best texture, thaw frozen shrimp overnight in the refrigerator. Need them sooner? Place the shrimp in a bowl of cold water, changing the water every 20 to 30 minutes, until thawed.
Can I use precooked shrimp?
Yes! Toss the shrimp with the olive oil and taco seasoning, then air fry at 375°F for 2 to 3 minutes, just until warmed through. Since the shrimp are already cooked, you’re only reheating them, so be careful not to overcook them.
