Air Fryer Cajun Shrimp is ready in about 15 minutes. Use a homemade salt-free Cajun seasoning for the best flavor, and air fry vegetables alongside the shrimp to make a complete, healthy meal. This quick, flavorful recipe is family-friendly and simple to prepare.
Try other air fryer recipes and Instant Pot dishes for more easy ideas and dinner inspiration.
Cajun Shrimp Grilled
This air-fryer version delivers the same bold, smoky flavors you expect from grilled Cajun shrimp. The shrimp stays juicy and tender without becoming rubbery, and the vegetables cook through while retaining a pleasant bite. It’s a reliable way to get restaurant-style results at home in less time.
We use a mix of zucchini, yellow squash and red bell pepper here; tossed with Cajun seasoning and air-fried together, they make a colorful, nutritious side that complements the shrimp. If you prefer more heat, increase the cayenne or red pepper flakes in the seasoning—this version is mildly spicy by design.
Ingredients & Substitutions
The full ingredient list with exact measurements is provided in the recipe card below. The notes here summarize the main components.
- Shrimp: Colossal, extra-large or jumbo shrimp work best. Use de-shelled and deveined shrimp; leaving tails on is optional. Frozen shrimp thawed before cooking are economical and perform well.
- Vegetables: We used red bell pepper, orange bell pepper, zucchini and yellow squash. Large-diced onion can be added for extra flavor. Bell pepper color can be swapped to suit taste.
- Homemade Salt-free Cajun Seasoning: A homemade blend adds the best flavor and stores well. Adjust spice levels to your preference.
- Other seasonings: Sweet paprika and salt to taste.
- Oil: Use extra-light or light olive oil or avocado oil. Neutral oils such as canola or sunflower are fine substitutes.
Best Tips
- Choose the right shrimp: Larger shrimp yield better texture and presentation. Smaller shrimp shrink more during cooking.
- Seasoning amount: For pronounced Cajun flavor we use 2.5 tablespoons of homemade seasoning. Reduce to about 1.5 tablespoons for a milder taste.
- Even cooking: Shake the air fryer basket once or twice during cooking for uniform browning.
- Make it spicier: Add 2 teaspoons red pepper flakes or ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper for extra heat.
How to make Cajun Shrimp in air fryer?
A detailed, step-by-step recipe with measurements and video is included in the recipe card below.
Step #1 Toss shrimp and veggies with seasoning
- Season the shrimp: In a large bowl, combine cleaned shrimp (fresh or thawed) with Cajun seasoning and paprika. Toss until well coated, then add the chopped vegetables and olive oil and toss again so everything is evenly coated.
Step #2 Air fry & serve
- Air fry: Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (about 200°C). Lightly spray or oil the basket, spread the shrimp and vegetables in an even layer, and air fry for approximately 12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Cook time can vary by model; serve immediately when done.
Storing Tips
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat as directed below.
Freezer: Freezing is not recommended; the vegetables may become soggy after thawing and reheating. This dish is quick to make fresh and tastes best when freshly prepared.
Reheating Directions
Air fryer: Reheat in a preheated air fryer at 390°F for 3–4 minutes.
Microwave: Microwave for 2–3 minutes or until heated through.
Skillet: Reheat in a skillet over medium-high heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.
Serving Ideas
This Cajun shrimp and vegetable combination can be enjoyed on its own as a wholesome meal. It also pairs well with seasoned rice—such as jasmine, Mexican-style rice or cilantro-lime rice—or alongside a comforting soup for a heartier dinner.
Recommended
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Air Fryer Cajun Shrimp
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Ingredients
- 20 Shrimp (**de-shelled, de-veined; use colossal, extra-large or jumbo)
- 1 cup yellow squash (diced)
- 1 cup zucchini (diced)
- ½ cup red bell pepper (diced)
- ½ cup orange bell pepper (diced)
- 2.5 tbsp Cajun Seasoning (homemade, salt-free)
- 1 tsp Paprika
- Salt, to taste
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil (light or extra-light)
Equipment Used
Instructions
Season shrimp & Veggies
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Place de-shelled, de-veined shrimp in a large bowl. Add Cajun seasoning, paprika and salt to taste. Toss to coat. Add the vegetables and olive oil, and toss again until everything is evenly coated.
Air Fry
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Preheat the air fryer to 390°F. Lightly coat the basket with cooking spray or oil and spread the shrimp and vegetables into a single layer. Some overlap is okay.
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Air fry at 390°F for about 12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Times vary by air fryer model—serve immediately when done.
Notes
- Shrimp size: Use colossal, jumbo, or extra-large shrimp. Thawed frozen shrimp work well; tails can be left on or removed.
- Spice level: Add ½ teaspoon cayenne or red pepper flakes for more heat.
- Salt: Adjust to taste.
- Oil substitute: Swap olive oil for canola, sunflower, avocado or another neutral oil if preferred.
Calorie and nutrition figures are provided as estimates. If you follow a specific diet, use your preferred nutrition calculator.
Nutrition
| Carbohydrates: 7g
| Protein: 2g
| Fat: 8g