Oh my gosh, have you ever needed a last-minute appetizer that looks fancy but takes barely any effort? That’s exactly why I became obsessed with these air fryer prawn cocktail cups. I discovered them when my sister showed up unexpectedly with friends, and I had about 15 minutes to pull something together. The crispy phyllo cups from the air fryer paired with that tangy prawn filling saved my hosting dignity! Now they’re my go-to when I want something impressive without the fuss – crunchy, creamy, and packed with flavor in every bite.
Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Prawn Cocktail Cups
Trust me, these little bites are absolute game-changers! Here’s why:
- Lightning-fast—ready in under 15 minutes, even if you’re scrambling before guests arrive
- That perfect crunch—the air fryer turns phyllo cups into golden, shatter-crisp vessels
- Party magic—elegant enough for fancy gatherings but easy enough for casual nibbles
- No mess—just one bowl for mixing and the air fryer basket (no greasy pans to scrub!)
Seriously, they disappear faster than I can make them—every single time.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Prawn Cocktail Cups
Here’s everything you’ll need to make these irresistible bites. I’ve included my favorite brands and substitutions where they matter most:
- 1 package mini phyllo cups (15 count) – I swear by Athens brand for their perfect crispiness
- 200g cooked prawns, peeled and deveined (thawed if frozen – see my note below)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise – use full-fat for best creaminess
- 2 tbsp ketchup – Heinz gives that classic cocktail sauce flavor
- 1 tsp lemon juice, fresh squeezed if possible
- 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce – this is the secret flavor booster!
- 1/4 tsp paprika – smoked or sweet, your choice
- 1/4 tsp hot sauce (optional) – I love a dash of Tabasco for kick
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley – dried works in a pinch but fresh is best
- 1/4 cup shredded lettuce – I prefer butter lettuce for tenderness
- Salt and pepper to taste
Quick swap: Out of prawns? Use equal amounts of cooked crab or diced chicken – both work beautifully with this dressing!
How to Make Air Fryer Prawn Cocktail Cups
Okay, let’s get cooking! These come together so fast you’ll barely have time to pour your drink. Follow these simple steps for perfect prawn cocktail cups every time.
Preparing the Phyllo Cups
First, preheat that air fryer to 350°F (175°C) – this is crucial for getting them crispy! Arrange the phyllo cups in a single layer in the basket (no overlapping or they won’t crisp evenly). Air fry for just 3 minutes until they’re golden and shatter-crisp. Watch them like a hawk after 2 minutes – they go from perfect to burnt fast!
Mixing the Prawn Cocktail Filling
While the cups crisp up, chop your prawns into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, whisk together the mayo, ketchup, lemon juice, Worcestershire, paprika, and hot sauce if you’re feeling spicy (I always am!). Fold in the prawns until they’re beautifully coated. Taste and adjust seasoning – sometimes I add an extra squeeze of lemon if it needs brightness.
Pro tip: Assemble right before serving! The cups stay crispest when filled just moments before your guests dive in.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Prawn Cocktail Cups
After making these dozens of times (okay, maybe hundreds), I’ve learned a few tricks to make them absolutely perfect:
- Don’t overstuff! The cups seem small, but 1 heaping teaspoon of filling is plenty – you want to taste that crispy shell too
- Spice to your mood – start with 1/4 tsp hot sauce, then add more after tasting (my husband likes it fiery!)
- Fresh is best – that sprinkle of parsley makes all the difference in looks and flavor
- Work fast – fill cups just before serving to keep that amazing air fryer crispness
Variations for Air Fryer Prawn Cocktail Cups
Oh, the fun you can have with these! Swap prawns for cooked crab meat – it’s luxurious. Chicken works great too (perfect for leftovers). Need gluten-free? Use gluten-free phyllo cups or even crisp lettuce leaves instead. For a vegetarian twist, try diced avocado with the same zesty dressing. The possibilities are endless!
Serving Suggestions for Air Fryer Prawn Cocktail Cups
These little beauties shine brightest at room temperature – not too cold, not too warm. I love pairing them with crisp white wine or a citrusy gin cocktail. For parties, arrange them next to other finger foods like mini quiches or cheese straws. Just watch them disappear before your eyes!
Storage & Reheating
Honestly, these are absolute perfection when fresh – that crisp cup is everything! But if you must, store the filling separately for up to a day (covered in the fridge). The cups? Bake fresh – they’ll never be the same reheated.
Nutritional Information
Nutritional values are estimates and vary based on ingredients. Each air fryer prawn cocktail cup contains about 45 calories, 2g fat (0.5g saturated), 3g protein, and 4g carbs. Not bad for such a flavorful bite – you could easily enjoy a few without guilt!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen prawns?
Absolutely! Just thaw them completely in the fridge first – I usually leave mine overnight. Pat them dry with paper towels so your filling isn’t watery.
How long do phyllo cups stay crispy?
Truth time: they’re at their absolute best right after air frying. If you must prep ahead, store unfilled cups in an airtight container for up to 2 hours (any longer and they’ll soften).
Can I make these ahead?
The filling keeps beautifully for a day in the fridge, but always air fry fresh cups. Mix in a splash of extra lemon juice before serving to brighten the flavors back up!
15-Minute Air Fryer Prawn Cocktail Cups – Irresistibly Crisp
- Total Time: 13 minutes
- Yield: 15 cups
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
Crispy air-fried prawn cocktail cups with a fresh, tangy dressing. A quick and easy appetizer for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 package of mini phyllo cups (15 count)
- 200g cooked prawns, peeled and deveined
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp hot sauce (optional)
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup shredded lettuce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Arrange phyllo cups in the air fryer basket and cook for 3 minutes until crisp. Set aside.
- Chop prawns into small pieces.
- In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, ketchup, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, and hot sauce (if using).
- Add prawns to the dressing and toss to coat.
- Fill each phyllo cup with a small amount of shredded lettuce.
- Spoon the prawn mixture over the lettuce.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
- For best texture, serve immediately after assembling.
- Swap prawns with cooked chicken or crab for variation.
- Adjust hot sauce to your spice preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: International