Shrimp is a delicious and versatile seafood that can be prepared in a variety of ways. Whether you prefer them baked, air fried, or sautéed, having a bag of frozen shrimp on hand makes it easy to whip up a quick and tasty meal.
However, cooking frozen shrimp can be tricky if you’re not familiar with the proper techniques. In this article, I’ll answer some frequently asked questions and provide step-by-step instructions on how to cook the perfect frozen shrimp in 3 different ways.
1. Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Need To Thaw Frozen Shrimp Before Cooking?
The short answer is no, you don’t have to thaw frozen shrimp before cooking them. However, there are a few things to keep in mind. If you’re planning to grill or sauté the shrimp, it’s best to thaw them first to ensure even cooking. On the other hand, if you’re boiling, baking, or air frying, you can cook them straight from the freezer.
How Do You Tell If Frozen Shrimp is Cooked?
Cooked shrimp should be opaque and firm to the touch, with a slightly pink or orange tint. If you’re unsure, use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature. Fully cooked shrimp should reach an internal temperature of 120°F (49°C).
2. How To Cook Frozen Shrimp in Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 1 pound (500g) frozen shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or cooking spray
- Salt and pepper (or your favorite seasoning)
Instructions
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
In a bowl, toss the frozen shrimp with olive oil (or spray with cooking spray) and season with salt, pepper, or your preferred seasoning.
Place the seasoned shrimp in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them.
Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through.
Remove the shrimp from the air fryer and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or over a bed of rice or salad.
3. How To Cook Frozen Shrimp on Stove
Ingredients
- 1 pound (500g) frozen shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- Salt and pepper (or your favorite seasoning)
Instructions
In a large skillet, heat the butter or olive oil over medium-high heat.
Add the frozen shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. If using garlic, add it now and sauté for 30 seconds.
Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, or your preferred seasoning.
Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn opaque and are cooked through.
Remove the shrimp from the skillet and serve hot with your favorite sides or over a bed of pasta or rice.
4. How To Cook Frozen Shrimp in Oven
Ingredients
- 1 pound (500g) frozen shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- Salt and pepper (or your favorite seasoning)
- Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
In a bowl, toss the frozen shrimp with olive oil or melted butter and season with salt, pepper, or your preferred seasoning.
Spread the seasoned shrimp in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through.
Remove the shrimp from the oven and serve hot with lemon wedges on the side (if desired).
No matter which method you choose, cooking frozen shrimp is a quick and easy way to add a delicious protein to your meal. With these simple instructions, you’ll be able to enjoy perfectly cooked shrimp in no time.
