Air Fryer Best Recipe for Tasty Seafood Soup with Crab and Shrimp
Seafood soup is a comforting, flavorful dish loved around the world, especially when it combines tender crab meat and juicy shrimp in a rich, aromatic broth. While seafood soup is traditionally cooked on the stovetop, using an air fryer adds a modern twist that enhances flavor, reduces cooking time, and keeps ingredients perfectly tender without overcooking. This recipe is ideal for busy home cooks who want restaurant-quality results with minimal effort.
In this article, you’ll discover the best air fryer recipe for tasty seafood soup with crab and shrimp, along with tips, variations, and serving ideas to make it unforgettable.
Why Make Seafood Soup in an Air Fryer?
You might be wondering how an air fryer can help with soup. While the soup itself simmers gently in a heat-safe bowl, the air fryer excels at roasting aromatics and seafood, locking in flavor before everything comes together. This method creates a deeper, richer taste compared to boiling ingredients directly in liquid.
Benefits of Using an Air Fryer:
- Enhanced seafood flavor without drying it out
- Faster cooking time
- Less oil required
- Perfect texture for shrimp and crab
- Easy cleanup
Air Fryer Calorie Calculator
Meal Items
Total Calories: 0 kcal
Ingredients for Air Fryer Seafood Soup
Air Fryer Calorie Calculator
Meal Items
Total Calories: 0 kcal
Seafood:
- 250 g shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 200 g crab meat (fresh or canned, drained)
Vegetables & Aromatics:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, chopped
- 1 small tomato, grated or finely chopped
Liquids & Seasonings:
- 3 cups seafood stock (or fish/chicken stock)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme or oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- Optional: chili flakes or cayenne for heat
Finishing Touch:
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
- Lemon wedges
Step-by-Step Air Fryer Seafood Soup Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry and lightly toss with olive oil, paprika, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. This step helps seal in flavor during air frying.
Step 2: Air Fry the Shrimp
Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (356°F). Place the shrimp in a single layer in the basket and cook for 5–6 minutes, shaking halfway through. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Roast Aromatics
In an air-fryer-safe bowl, combine onion, garlic, carrot, celery, tomato, and olive oil. Air fry at 180°C for 8–10 minutes, stirring once, until vegetables are soft and fragrant.
Step 4: Build the Soup Base
Carefully remove the bowl and add seafood stock, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
Step 5: Simmer in the Air Fryer
Return the bowl to the air fryer and cook at 170°C (338°F) for 12–15 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
Step 6: Add Crab and Shrimp
Gently stir in the crab meat and cooked shrimp. Air fry for another 3–5 minutes, just until heated through. Avoid overcooking to keep the seafood tender.
Step 7: Finish and Serve
Remove the bay leaf, taste, and adjust seasoning. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with lemon wedges.
Tips for the Best Seafood Soup
- Use fresh seafood whenever possible for the best flavor
- Don’t overcook shrimp—they turn rubbery quickly
- Warm your stock before adding for faster cooking
- Use a deep, heat-safe bowl to avoid spills
- Add cream or coconut milk for a richer soup
Delicious Variations
Creamy Seafood Soup
Add ½ cup heavy cream or coconut milk in the final step for a creamy texture.
Spicy Seafood Soup
Add chili flakes, fresh chili, or a splash of hot sauce for heat lovers.
Mediterranean Style
Include olives, fennel, and a pinch of saffron for a Mediterranean twist.
Asian-Inspired Version
Add ginger, soy sauce, and a dash of sesame oil for an Asian flavor profile.
What to Serve with Seafood Soup
- Crusty bread or garlic toast
- Steamed rice
- Side salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Air fryer garlic naan
Nutritional Benefits
This air fryer seafood soup is:
- High in protein
- Rich in omega-3 fatty acids
- Low in saturated fat
- Packed with vitamins and minerals
It’s a wholesome meal that fits well into a balanced diet.
Final Thoughts
This air fryer seafood soup with crab and shrimp proves that comfort food can be both easy and gourmet. By using the air fryer, you enhance flavors, save time, and achieve perfect seafood texture every time. Whether you’re cooking for family, guests, or just yourself, this recipe delivers warmth, flavor, and satisfaction in every spoonful.
Try it once, and it’s sure to become a favorite in your air fryer recipe collection.
