Craving a delicious snack that’s quick and easy? Let me introduce you to Air Fryer Garlic Butter Shrimp Toasts. This savory delight combines juicy shrimp, rich garlic butter, and crispy baguette. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, these toasts will impress everyone. In this guide, I’ll walk you through each step, share tips, and even suggest tasty variations. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe together!

Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 1 baguette, cut into 1-inch thick slices
– 12 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Ingredient Tips
Fresh vs. Frozen Shrimp: Fresh shrimp has a sweeter taste and a firmer texture. Frozen shrimp is often just as good if you thaw it properly. Look for shrimp labeled as “wild-caught” for better flavor.
Butter Alternatives: If you want a lighter option, try using olive oil or a plant-based butter. This change will still give you a rich taste without the extra calories.
Herb Substitutions: If you don’t have parsley, you can use basil or cilantro. Both herbs add a fresh flavor. You can also add dried herbs like oregano for a different twist.
These tips can help you choose the best ingredients for your Air Fryer Garlic Butter Shrimp Toasts. Enjoy cooking and experimenting!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Ingredients
To start, I melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a medium skillet over medium heat. Once the butter melts, I add 4 cloves of minced garlic. I sauté the garlic for about 1-2 minutes. I stir occasionally to keep it from burning. The garlic should smell fragrant and soft, not brown.
Cooking the Shrimp
Next, I add 12 ounces of peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. I season them with salt and black pepper. I cook the shrimp for 3-4 minutes. I know they are done when they turn pink and opaque. After cooking, I remove the skillet from heat. I stir in 1 teaspoon of lemon juice and 2 tablespoons of chopped parsley.
Air Frying the Toast
Now, I preheat the air fryer to 370°F (188°C). This helps the toast get that crispy texture. While it preheats, I take the remaining melted butter and mix it with a pinch of salt. I brush each side of the baguette slices with this garlic butter.
Assembling and Final Cooking
After the air fryer is hot, I arrange the buttered baguette slices in the basket. I make sure they do not overlap. I cook them for about 3 minutes until they turn golden brown. Once they are crispy, I remove them carefully. I top each slice with the garlic shrimp mixture. Then, I sprinkle a cup of shredded mozzarella cheese on top. I place the toasts back in the air fryer for another 3-4 minutes. I check that the cheese is melted and bubbly before serving.
Tips & Tricks
Key Cooking Tips
To keep your bread crispy, brush it lightly with garlic butter. Avoid soaking it too much. Place the bread in a single layer in the air fryer. This helps it cook evenly. For the shrimp, look for a nice pink color. It should be opaque all the way through. This shows they are perfectly cooked.
Air Fryer Specifics
Set your air fryer to 370°F (188°C) for the best results. Preheating is key to getting that nice, crisp toast. Do not overcrowd the basket. Give each piece space so air can flow around. If you have a lot to cook, do it in batches. This keeps everything evenly cooked.
Serving Suggestions
For a beautiful presentation, arrange the toasts on a nice platter. A lemon wedge on the side adds a nice touch. It also gives a fresh flavor when squeezed. Garnish with more chopped parsley for color. Pair your shrimp toasts with a simple salad or a light dip, like garlic aioli, for a complete meal.
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can make this dish fit your needs. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free bread. This way, you keep the flavor and texture. If you want to switch up the seafood, try scallops or crab instead of shrimp. You can also use veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for a lighter option. Just chop them small and sauté them in the garlic butter.
Flavor Enhancements
To give these toasts a kick, add spices like red pepper flakes or smoked paprika. You can also mix in a bit of lemon zest for extra brightness. If you love cheese, consider using a blend of mozzarella and parmesan. This will add a depth of flavor that you will enjoy. For sauces, a drizzle of sriracha or a garlic aioli can add an exciting twist.
Alternative Cooking Methods
If you don’t have an air fryer, no worries! You can bake these toasts in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the buttered baguette slices on a baking sheet. Bake them for about 5 minutes until they are crispy. After topping with shrimp and cheese, return them to the oven and bake for another 5-7 minutes. Keep an eye on them to ensure the cheese melts and bubbles nicely.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your garlic butter shrimp toasts fresh, use an airtight container. Glass or plastic containers work well. Place the toasts in a single layer if possible. Store them in the fridge for up to three days. This helps keep the flavors intact and prevents sogginess.
Reheating Instructions
When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, you can reheat them in either the air fryer or the microwave. For the air fryer, set it to 350°F (175°C). Heat the toasts for about 3-5 minutes until warmed through. In the microwave, place the toasts on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in 30-second intervals until hot. Be careful not to overheat as this can make the bread tough.
Freezing Tips
Yes, you can freeze shrimp toasts! To do this, let them cool completely first. Place the toasts in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, they won’t stick together. You can freeze them for up to a month. When ready to eat, reheat directly from the freezer. Just add a few extra minutes to the air fryer cooking time.
FAQs
How can I make shrimp toast without an air fryer?
You can make shrimp toast using your oven. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare the baguette slices as you would for the air fryer. Brush them with garlic butter and place them on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10 minutes or until golden brown. For the shrimp, sauté them in a pan as usual. Once the bread is toasted, top each slice with the shrimp and cheese. Bake in the oven for another 5-7 minutes until the cheese melts.
Can I use cooked shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use cooked shrimp. It can save time, but be careful. Pre-cooked shrimp does not need long cooking. Just warm it up with the garlic and butter for 2 minutes. This keeps the shrimp juicy. However, overcooking might make it rubbery. Always check the shrimp’s texture before serving.
What can I serve with garlic butter shrimp toasts?
There are many great sides for shrimp toasts. Consider a light salad with greens and lemon vinaigrette. You can also serve it with garlic aioli for dipping. Another great option is a bowl of soup, like tomato or chowder. For a more filling meal, serve with roasted vegetables or coleslaw.
This blog post covered how to make garlic butter shrimp toasts. We explored the ingredients, gave tips for success, and provided step-by-step instructions. I shared variations for different diets and explained how to store and reheat your leftovers.
With these easy recipes and tricks, you can create delicious shrimp toasts. Enjoy these flavorful bites at your next meal or gathering. Happy cooking!
