Easy Air Fryer Hooter’s Buffalo Shrimp

These Easy Air Fryer Hooter’s Buffalo Shrimp are crispy, spicy, and ready in minutes. Perfect as an appetizer or game-day snack, they deliver all the flavor of the restaurant without the deep-frying mess.

If you love the bold, tangy kick of Hooter’s Buffalo Shrimp but don’t want to deal with a deep fryer, this recipe is your new go-to.

Made in the air fryer, these shrimp come out perfectly crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and coated in that signature spicy buffalo sauce.

Whether you’re serving them as a snack for game day or an appetizer at your next gathering, they’re easy, flavorful, and guaranteed to impress.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

• Perfectly crispy shrimp without deep frying, saving time and oil.
• Bold, spicy buffalo flavor that hits just right every time.
• Quick and easy to make—ready in under 20 minutes.
• Ideal for game days, parties, or casual weeknight snacks.
• Minimal cleanup thanks to the air fryer, so stress-free cooking.

Hooters Buffalo Shrimp Ingredients

• Shrimp: Raw, deveined, tails removed, ready to cook
• All-Purpose Flour: For coating shrimp before air frying
• Paprika: Ground for smoky, mild flavor enhancement
• Garlic Powder: For aromatic, savory seasoning on shrimp
• Black Pepper: Freshly ground for subtle heat and flavor
• Frank’s Red Hot Sauce: For classic tangy buffalo flavor
• Unsalted Butter: Melted to mix with hot sauce

How To Make Easy Air Fryer Hooter’s Buffalo Shrimp

Step One: Combine the flour and seasonings in a small bowl and stir until evenly mixed. Toss the shrimp in the flour mixture to coat, then cover and chill in the refrigerator for 10–15 minutes to help the coating stick.

Step Two: In a small saucepan, combine the butter and Frank’s Hot Sauce, then simmer over medium-high heat for 3–5 minutes before removing from heat.

Step Three: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer and air fry at 390°F for 5–9 minutes. Once cooked, toss the shrimp in the buffalo sauce before serving.

Step Four: Serve with your favorite blue cheese dressing, celery sticks, and carrot sticks!

Easy Air Fryer Hooter’s Buffalo Shrimp Recipe Tips

• Pat shrimp dry before coating: Removing excess moisture helps the flour stick better and creates a crispier coating.
• Chill before cooking: Letting the coated shrimp rest in the fridge for 10–15 minutes ensures the batter adheres during air frying.
• Single layer cooking: Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to get even crispiness on each shrimp.
• Adjust spice level: Mix extra hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne into the buffalo sauce if you like it spicier.
• Serve immediately: Buffalo sauce tends to soak in over time, so toss and serve right after cooking for maximum crunch.
• Optional garnish: Sprinkle with chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

• Storing: Store leftover buffalo shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the buffalo sauce separate if possible to prevent the shrimp from getting soggy.
• Freezing: Place cooked shrimp in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper. Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F and cook the shrimp for 3–5 minutes until heated through and slightly crispy. Alternatively, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes, keeping the buffalo sauce on the side until serving.

Easy Air Fryer Hooter’s Buffalo Shrimp Recipe Faqs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe? Yes, but make sure to fully thaw and pat them dry before coating to ensure a crispy texture.

How spicy is this buffalo shrimp? The heat comes from Frank’s Red Hot Sauce, giving a medium spice level. You can adjust the sauce to your taste.

Can I make this recipe without an air fryer? Yes, you can bake the shrimp in a preheated oven at 400°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway.

How long can leftover shrimp be stored? Store cooked shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Can I prep the shrimp ahead of time? Absolutely! Coat the shrimp in the flour mixture and keep them refrigerated for up to 15 minutes before air frying.

What can I serve with buffalo shrimp? Serve with celery sticks, carrot sticks, ranch or blue cheese dressing, or even over a salad for a light meal.

More Copycat Hooters Recipes

• Hooters Buffalo Chicken Dip

• Hooters Pasta Salad Recipe
• Hooters Chicken Wing Sauce
• Air Fryer Deep Fried Pickles (Hooter’s Copycat)
• Air Fryer Hooters Buffalo Chicken Wing Recipe
• Air Fryer Hooter’s Buffalo Shrimp

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