Make the perfect appetizer with this Air Fryer Buffalo Shrimp, easy to make gluten-free too!
If you love bold seafood flavors but want a quicker, healthier method than deep frying, this Air Fryer Buffalo Shrimp is for you. It delivers a crisp, spicy coating with savory buffalo flavor and can easily be adapted to be gluten-free.
The recipe is straightforward and quick to make gluten-free with just one simple swap.
What type of shrimp should you use?
This recipe uses frozen, cooked shrimp. Medium shrimp are a great all-purpose choice, but large or jumbo shrimp work well too. We prefer tail-on, deveined shrimp for ease of handling and presentation.
To prepare, place frozen shrimp in a strainer and run cold water over them until thawed, then pat dry with paper towels. Once thawed and dry, proceed with the recipe.
How do you make gluten-free buffalo shrimp?
To make the dish gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs (panko-style works well). Always double-check labels on all ingredients if you need to avoid gluten.
Tips for making Air Fryer Buffalo Shrimp
This easy recipe uses pantry-friendly ingredients. After thawing the shrimp, whisk melted butter and buffalo sauce in a small bowl to create the coating.
In a separate bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. If you want extra heat or flavor, add Cajun seasoning or red pepper flakes.
Dip each shrimp into the buffalo butter mixture, then press into the breadcrumb mixture to coat. Arrange shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket with space between pieces so hot air can circulate.
Lightly coat the basket with grapeseed oil spray, or use parchment or foil (place shrimp on the liner before turning the air fryer on). Cook each batch for about 8–10 minutes at 350°F (175°C), checking frequently because air fryer models vary. For extra crispness, spray the tops lightly with oil partway through cooking.
You may need to cook the shrimp in two or three batches. The air fryer will remain hot between batches, which can slightly reduce subsequent cook times, so keep an eye on the coating becoming golden brown and crispy.
What to serve with Air Fryer Buffalo Shrimp
Serve the shrimp with celery sticks and ranch dressing for a classic pairing. They also pair nicely with other game-day favorites like buffalo cauliflower or buffalo wings for a full spread.
How to store and reheat leftovers
Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2–3 days. To reheat and keep them crisp, warm in the air fryer at 330°F for 2–3 minutes. Microwaving for 1–2 minutes is possible but will soften the coating.
This quick, spicy appetizer is perfect for game day or any gathering — crispy buffalo shrimp in minutes. Enjoy!
Air Fryer Buffalo Shrimp
Air Fryer Fanatics
Pin Recipe
5
15
20
Gluten Free Air Fryer Recipes
American
6
183 kcal
Ingredients
- 12 oz Bag of medium, cooked and deveined shrimp (tail-on)
- 4 Tbsp Butter melted
- 1/2 Cup Buffalo sauce
- 1 Cup Gluten-free or regular breadcrumbs
- 1 Tbsp Garlic powder
- 1 Tsp Salt
- 1/2 Tsp Black pepper
- Grapeseed oil spray
Instructions
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If needed, thaw shrimp under cold running water and pat dry.
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Whisk melted butter and buffalo sauce in a large bowl.
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Toss shrimp in the buffalo mixture until well coated.
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Combine breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in another bowl.
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Press each shrimp into the breadcrumb mixture, holding by the tail for easier coating.
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Spray the air fryer basket lightly with grapeseed oil.
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Arrange shrimp in a single layer (you may need 2–3 batches).
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Cook at 350°F for 8–10 minutes until golden brown and crispy; spray with a little oil if you want extra crispness and check during cooking.
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Remove cooked shrimp carefully and continue with remaining batches.
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Serve with celery and ranch or your preferred dipping sauce.
Notes
Flipping is optional; we didn’t flip ours but you can for even browning.
A serving is roughly eight shrimp.
Add Cajun seasoning for a smoky, spicier kick if desired.
Nutrition
Calories: 183 kcal
Carbohydrates: 14 g
Protein: 10 g
Fat: 9 g
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