Air Fryer Cajun Shrimp Dinner: Quick, Easy, and Delicious
Air Fryer Cajun Shrimp Dinner takes just 30 minutes and delivers bold, satisfying flavors with almost zero effort. This is my go-to air fryer meal for busy weeknights when I need dinner on the table fast. Juicy shrimp, smoky andouille sausage, and fresh vegetables come together in a single air fryer basket—minimal prep, maximum flavor.
Traditional Cajun-style shrimp dinners can take much longer with marinades and stovetop sautéing, but this method? It’s a shortcut you’ll want to make every week. Trust me, your air fryer is about to earn MVP status in your kitchen!
Why This Air Fryer Cajun Shrimp Dinner Is a Game-Changer
- Quick and Easy: From start to finish, you’re looking at just 30 minutes—perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Minimal Cleanup: Everything cooks in the air fryer basket, so there’s no pile of dishes waiting for you afterward.
- Perfectly Crispy Shrimp: The air fryer guarantees crispy, flavorful shrimp every time.
- Hands-Off Cooking: You can let the air fryer handle the work while you prep a side dish or just relax.
- Versatile Ingredients: Swap in veggies you already have, making it a great fridge-cleanout recipe.
Equipment You’ll Need for This Air Fryer Cajun Shrimp Dinner
To make this Cajun shrimp with vegetables, all you need is your trusty air fryer and a mixing bowl. I recommend using an air fryer with a basket that holds at least 4 quarts, so the shrimp and vegetables cook evenly without overcrowding. A smaller basket will require cooking in batches, but don’t worry—each batch only takes 8 minutes!
If you don’t already have an air fryer, look for one with adjustable temperature settings up to 400°F for maximum versatility. Consistent heat distribution is key for achieving that signature air fryer crispiness!
Simple Ingredients for Air Fryer Cajun Shrimp Dinner
This one-pot Cajun shrimp dinner is built around simple ingredients that pack a punch:
- Shrimp: Use extra jumbo shrimp (24 count per pound), cleaned and peeled. Frozen shrimp work perfectly—just defrost before starting.
- Andouille Sausage: Fully cooked sausage adds smoky, spicy flavor. Turkey or chicken versions are lighter options.
- Vegetables: Zucchini, yellow squash, and red bell pepper bring color, texture, and freshness to every bite.
- Cajun Seasoning: A pre-made blend keeps the recipe quick. If you like more control, make your own mix with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne.
Feel free to get creative with substitutions—broccoli, asparagus, or even cherry tomatoes would be great swaps!
Air Fryer Cajun Shrimp Dinner Recipe Details
- Servings: 4 servings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Air Fryer Cajun Shrimp Dinner Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon Cajun or Creole seasoning
- 24 (1 pound) cleaned and peeled extra jumbo shrimp
- 6 ounces fully cooked turkey/chicken andouille sausage, sliced
- 1 medium zucchini, 8 ounces, sliced into 1/4-inch thick half moons
- 1 medium yellow squash, 8 ounces, sliced into 1/4-inch thick half moons
- 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and cut into thin 1-inch pieces
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
How to Make Air Fryer Cajun Shrimp Dinner
- In a large bowl, combine the shrimp with Cajun seasoning. Toss to coat evenly.
- Add the sliced sausage, zucchini, squash, bell peppers, and kosher salt. Drizzle with olive oil and toss everything together.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes.
- Place half the shrimp and vegetable mixture in the air fryer basket, ensuring an even layer. Cook for 8 minutes, shaking the basket 2-3 times for even cooking.
- Set the first batch aside and repeat with the remaining mixture.
- After both batches are cooked, return the first batch to the air fryer for 1 minute to reheat.
Jake’s Tips for the Best Air Fryer Cajun Shrimp Dinner
- Use Frozen Shrimp: Buy frozen shrimp and defrost as needed—it’s fresher than “fresh” shrimp at the grocery store.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Cook in batches to ensure crispy results. Overcrowding leads to steaming instead of roasting.
- Customize Spice Levels: Add extra cayenne if you like it spicier, or tone it down with mild sausage.
- Make It Ahead: Prep the shrimp and veggie mix ahead of time and store in the fridge until ready to cook.
- Quick Reheat: Leftovers reheat beautifully in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes.
Easy Air Fryer Cajun Shrimp Dinner Variations
- Low-Carb Option: Skip the sausage and add more squash or zucchini.
- Extra Veggie Power: Toss in broccoli florets or asparagus for more variety.
- Seafood Swap: Replace shrimp with scallops for a new spin.
- Clean-Out-the-Fridge: Use whatever veggies you have on hand—mushrooms, green beans, and cherry tomatoes work well.
Air Fryer Cajun Shrimp Dinner FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp without defrosting?
It’s best to defrost shrimp before cooking. Frozen shrimp can release water during cooking, which affects texture. To defrost, place shrimp in the fridge overnight or run them under cold water for 5-10 minutes.
What’s the best air fryer size for this recipe?
An air fryer with at least a 4-quart capacity works best for this easy air fryer shrimp recipe. If you have a smaller basket, cook in batches for the best results.
Can I make this without Cajun seasoning?
Absolutely! If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, make your own with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Adjust the spice level to your liking.
What vegetables can I substitute?
This quick Cajun dinner idea is super flexible! Try broccoli, green beans, asparagus, or even sweet potatoes if you want a heartier option.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover shrimp and veggies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to revive the crispiness.
Ready to whip up your own Air Fryer Cajun Shrimp Dinner? Trust me, this one’s going to be a repeat in your meal rotation. What’s your favorite kitchen shortcut? Tell me in the comments below!
Air Fryer Cajun Shrimp Dinner
Ingredients
Method
- In a large bowl, combine the shrimp with Cajun seasoning. Toss to coat evenly.
- Add the sliced sausage, zucchini, squash, bell peppers, and kosher salt. Drizzle with olive oil and toss everything together.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes.
- Place half the shrimp and vegetable mixture in the air fryer basket, ensuring an even layer. Cook for 8 minutes, shaking the basket 2-3 times for even cooking.
- Set the first batch aside and repeat with the remaining mixture.
- After both batches are cooked, return the first batch to the air fryer for 1 minute to reheat.
Notes
Written by Jake
Hi, I’m Jake — the home cook behind Kitchen Shortcuts. I create easy crockpot meals and slow cooker recipes designed for busy families who want flavorful home-cooked food with less effort.
