Air Fryer Scallops Easy Crispy and Quick Recipe

Name: Air Fryer Scallops
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 18 min
Ingredients: 1 lb large sea scallops (10-20 count) (pat dried thoroughly); 1 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil); 1/2 tsp sea salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (for brushing after cooking, optional) (optional); fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional) (optional); lemon wedges (for serving, optional) (optional)

Published:

October 8, 2025

By:

katya bou

Air Fryer Scallops Easy Crispy and Quick Recipe

Introduction

Ever found yourself staring at a bag of scallops, wondering if there’s a quicker, healthier way to enjoy their sweet, delicate flavor without the fuss of pan-frying or deep-frying? If so, you’re not alone! Many home cooks are discovering the magic of their air fryer for dishes they once considered restaurant-only affairs. Today, we’re diving into the incredibly simple yet utterly delicious world of Air Fryer Scallops. Forget the oil splatters and the constant flipping; with the air fryer, you can achieve perfectly seared, tender scallops with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

This isn’t just another recipe; it’s a game-changer, especially for those busy weeknights when you crave something gourmet but are short on time. We’re talking about a dish that feels fancy enough for guests yet is easy enough for a spontaneous Tuesday night dinner. Whether you’re a seasoned seafood lover or just looking to expand your culinary horizons, these Air Fryer Scallops promise to deliver a fantastic dining experience. Imagine plump, juicy scallops with a beautiful golden crust, cooked to perfection in minutes. It’s a healthy, quick, and undeniably delicious option that will quickly become a staple in your rotation of Air Fryer Recipes. No longer do you need special culinary skills to get that perfect sear; your air fryer handles all the hard work. This recipe is designed to be user-friendly, ensuring even novice cooks can achieve impressive results. So, get ready to unlock the full potential of your air fryer and transform humble scallops into an extraordinary meal that’s both elegant and incredibly convenient. It’s part of a growing trend of Air Fryer Food that makes healthy eating accessible and enjoyable.

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Scallops Recipe

You might be wondering what makes Air Fryer Scallops so special, and why you should choose this method over traditional cooking. Prepare to be amazed! This recipe isn’t just about convenience; it’s about optimizing flavor and texture while keeping things simple. Here’s why this will become your go-to scallop recipe:

Effortlessly Elegant: Scallops have a reputation for being a high-end, sophisticated dish. This recipe allows you to achieve that restaurant-quality elegance with minimal effort. It’s perfect for impressing dinner guests or simply treating yourself to something special without spending hours in the kitchen.
Rapid Cooking Time: One of the biggest advantages of the air fryer is its speed. Scallops cook incredibly fast, often in under 10 minutes, making this an ideal choice for Easy Weeknight Dinners. No more waiting around for ovens to preheat or constantly monitoring a pan.
Healthy & Lean Protein: Scallops are naturally low in calories and high in lean protein, making them an excellent choice for Healthy Dinner Ideas. The air fryer uses significantly less oil than pan-frying, contributing to a lighter, healthier meal without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Perfectly Seared Exterior, Tender Interior: The air fryer circulates hot air, creating a beautiful crispy, golden-brown crust on the scallops while keeping their insides incredibly tender and succulent. This perfect balance of textures is often difficult to achieve with other cooking methods.
Minimal Cleanup: Less oil means less mess! With the air fryer, you’ll have fewer pots and pans to wash, making post-dinner cleanup a breeze. This is a huge win for anyone looking to simplify their cooking routine.
Versatile Flavor Profile: While this recipe focuses on a classic preparation, scallops are incredibly versatile. They pair well with a variety of sauces and seasonings, allowing for endless customization to suit your palate.
Budget-Friendly Indulgence: While scallops can seem like an indulgence, cooking them at home in the air fryer is far more economical than ordering them at a restaurant. This makes them a more accessible option, even for those looking for Cheap Dinners For A Family if purchased on sale, offering gourmet taste without the gourmet price tag.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Scallops

To make these divine Air Fryer Scallops, you won’t need a pantry full of exotic ingredients. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, allowing the natural sweetness of the scallops to shine.

1 lb large sea scallops (10-20 count), pat dried thoroughly
1 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil)
1/2 tsp sea salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (for brushing after cooking, optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Lemon wedges (for serving, optional)

Substitutions & Variations:

Oil: While olive oil is great, avocado oil has a higher smoke point if you prefer. You can also use a cooking spray designed for air fryers.
Seasoning: Feel free to experiment! A pinch of smoked paprika can add warmth, or a dash of Old Bay seasoning can give it a coastal flavor. For a slight kick, a tiny sprinkle of red pepper flakes works wonders.
Butter: If you’re avoiding dairy, you can omit the butter or use a plant-based butter alternative. The scallops will still be delicious.
Herbs: Chives or dill make excellent substitutes for parsley, offering a slightly different aromatic profile.
Citrus: Limes can be used instead of lemons for a slightly tarter, more exotic finish.

How to Make Air Fryer Scallops

Get ready for one of the easiest and most satisfying seafood preparations you’ll ever undertake. Making Air Fryer Scallops is incredibly straightforward, perfect for beginners and seasoned chefs alike!

The most crucial step in preparing scallops for the air fryer, or any cooking method for that matter, is ensuring they are perfectly dry. Excess moisture will steam the scallops instead of searing them, preventing that beautiful golden crust we’re aiming for. So, grab a roll of paper towels and get ready to blot!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Scallops

Begin by removing the small, tough muscle (the adductor muscle, a small, crescent-shaped piece) from the side of each scallop if it’s still attached. This muscle is edible but can be chewy. Then, and this is absolutely critical, thoroughly pat the scallops dry with paper towels. You want them as dry as possible. Repeat this process a few times until no more moisture comes off. This meticulous drying process is what ensures a good sear and prevents the scallops from steaming in the air fryer, which would result in a rubbery texture. Don’t skip this step – it’s the secret to perfectly cooked scallops!

Step 2: Season the Scallops

In a medium bowl, drizzle the dried scallops with olive oil. Gently toss them to ensure an even coating. This thin layer of oil is enough to help the seasonings adhere and promote browning without making them greasy. Next, sprinkle the salt, black pepper, and garlic powder over the scallops. Again, toss carefully to distribute the seasonings evenly. You want every scallop to be lightly coated. Garlic powder is fantastic here because it offers a consistent garlic flavor without the risk of fresh garlic burning in the air fryer.

Step 3: Preheat Your Air Fryer

Preheating your air fryer is a non-negotiable step for achieving optimal results. Just like a hot pan is essential for searing, a preheated air fryer basket ensures that the scallops start cooking immediately upon contact, leading to that coveted golden-brown crust. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 5 minutes. While it’s preheating, you can lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray if you’re concerned about sticking, though most modern air fryer baskets are non-stick. This step also helps to achieve a more uniform cooking temperature throughout the basket.

Step 4: Arrange Scallops in the Air Fryer Basket

Once the air fryer is preheated, carefully arrange the seasoned scallops in a single layer in the air fryer basket. It’s crucial not to overcrowd the basket. Overcrowding will lower the temperature, create steam, and prevent the scallops from searing properly, resulting in a less desirable texture. If you have too many scallops, cook them in batches. Give each scallop a little space to allow the hot air to circulate freely around it. This is key for even cooking and achieving that beautiful exterior. This method is perfect for Easy Air Fryer Meals Healthy.

Step 5: Air Fry the Scallops

Place the basket back into the preheated air fryer. Air fry for 6-8 minutes, flipping the scallops halfway through the cooking time (around the 3-4 minute mark). The exact cooking time will depend on the size of your scallops and the specific model of your air fryer. Larger scallops will take closer to 8 minutes, while smaller ones might be done in 6. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 125-130°F (52-54°C) for medium-rare, or 135-140°F (57-60°C) for medium. The scallops should be opaque throughout with a beautiful golden-brown sear on the outside. Be careful not to overcook them, as this can make them rubbery. Scallops cook very quickly!

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Once cooked, immediately remove the scallops from the air fryer. If desired, you can brush them lightly with melted butter for an extra touch of richness and flavor. This adds a wonderful gloss and a slight indulgence. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if you like, and serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges on the side. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the flavor and complements the sweetness of the scallops beautifully. Enjoy your perfectly cooked, tender, and delicious Air Fryer Scallops! This quick cooking process solidifies air frying as a prime method for Air Fryer Meals that are both elegant and simple.

Pro Tips & Variations

Mastering Air Fryer Scallops is simple, but a few pro tips can elevate your dish from good to extraordinary. Plus, we’ll explore some exciting variations to keep things fresh!

Pro Tips:

Don’t Skimp on Drying: This cannot be stressed enough. Pat, pat, pat those scallops dry! This is the single most important step for achieving a perfect sear and preventing a rubbery texture. Moisture is the enemy of browning. Use several layers of paper towels, swapping them out as they get damp.
Space Them Out: Overcrowding the air fryer basket is a common mistake. Scallops need ample space for the hot air to circulate around each piece, ensuring even cooking and searing. Cook in batches if necessary; it’s better to spend an extra few minutes on a second batch than to end up with poorly cooked scallops.
Know Your Scallops: Pay attention to the size of your scallops. Smaller bay scallops will cook faster (often 4-6 minutes) than larger sea scallops (6-8 minutes). Adjust your cooking time accordingly and always monitor for doneness.
Use Quality Oil (or None!): A light brush of olive oil helps the seasonings adhere and promotes browning. High-quality extra virgin olive oil adds a lovely flavor. However, if you’re truly aiming for minimal fat, you can use cooking spray or even air fry them with just salt and pepper after drying them impeccably.
Don’t Overcook! Scallops go from perfectly tender to rubbery in a matter of seconds. They should be opaque with a slight translucency in the very center when perfectly cooked. A digital thermometer inserted into the thickest part should read 125-130°F (52-54°C) for medium-rare, or 135-140°F (57-60°C) for medium. They will continue to cook slightly after removal from the air fryer.

Variations:

Garlic Herb Scallops: Mince 2 cloves of fresh garlic and mix with 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, 1 tbsp chopped chives, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Toss with the cooked scallops for a burst of fresh flavor.
Spicy Scallops: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to your seasoning mix. For an extra kick, a tiny drizzle of sriracha or chili oil over the cooked scallops can be fantastic.
Lemon-Dill Scallops: Replace garlic powder with 1/2 tsp dried dill. After cooking, a fresh squeeze of lemon juice and some fresh chopped dill will brighten the flavor even further.
Blackened Scallops: Create a homemade blackening seasoning (paprika, cayenne, onion powder, garlic powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, pepper) and coat the scallops generously before air frying. This technique adds a bold, spicy crust.
Sesame Ginger Scallops: Before air frying, toss scallops with a teaspoon of sesame oil and a pinch of ground ginger. After cooking, drizzle with a tiny bit of soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free), and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
Bacon-Wrapped Scallops (Air Fryer Style!): For an indulgent treat, wrap each scallop with a thin slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway, until bacon is crispy and scallops are cooked through. This is an excellent addition to your Air Fryer Recipes repertoire.

Serving Suggestions

Once your Air Fryer Scallops are cooked to perfection, the next step is building a delicious and balanced meal around them. Their delicate sweetness and tender texture pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are a few serving suggestions to inspire your next dinner:

Creamy Risotto: The classic pairing! A simple lemon-parmesan risotto or a mushroom risotto provides a rich, creamy base that perfectly complements the seared scallops. The contrast in textures and flavors is divine.
Asparagus with Lemon Butter: Steamed or roasted asparagus, tossed with a little lemon zest and a knob of butter, offers a vibrant, healthy, and quick side that echoes the flavors of the scallops.
Garlic Herb Pasta: Lightly dressed pasta with olive oil, garlic, fresh herbs (like parsley or basil), and a hint of red pepper flakes makes for a satisfying main course. The scallops can be placed directly on top for a beautiful presentation.
Simple Green Salad: For a lighter meal, serve the scallops alongside a fresh green salad with a vinaigrette dressing. A mix of spring greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light citrus dressing will highlight the scallop’s flavor without overpowering it. This keeps it firmly in the Easy Healthy Dinner category.
Quinoa or Couscous: For a wholesome and nutritious side, a bed of fluffy quinoa or pearl couscous mixed with some chopped vegetables (like bell peppers or cucumber) and a light dressing creates a balanced meal.
Cauliflower Rice: If you’re looking for a low-carb alternative, garlic herb cauliflower rice is an excellent choice. It’s light, flavorful, and soaks up any delicious juices from the scallops.

Storage & Reheating

While Air Fryer Scallops are best enjoyed fresh, sometimes you might have leftovers or want to plan ahead. Here’s how to store and reheat them to maintain as much of their quality as possible.

Storage:

Refrigerator: Allow cooked scallops to cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. They will keep well for up to 1-2 days. Beyond that, the texture tends to degrade significantly.
Freezer: Freezing cooked scallops is generally not recommended as their delicate texture can become rubbery and watery upon thawing and reheating. If you must freeze them, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. This prevents them from sticking together. They can be frozen for up to 1 month, but expect a noticeable change in texture.

Reheating:

Air Fryer (Recommended): The air fryer is the best method for reheating scallops as it helps to re-crisp the exterior without drying out the interior too much. Preheat your air fryer to 300°F (150°C). Place the scallops in a single layer in the basket and air fry for 3-5 minutes, or until just heated through. Be careful not to overcook them, as they will dry out quickly.
Skillet: You can also reheat scallops gently in a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat with a tiny bit of butter or oil. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, just until warmed through. Again, watch carefully to prevent overcooking.
Microwave (Least Recommended): While possible, reheating scallops in the microwave is highly discouraged. It tends to make them rubbery and chewy. If you have no other option, heat them in 15-second intervals on low power until just warm.

FAQ about Air Fryer Scallops

Here are some common questions about making Air Fryer Scallops, designed to clear up any doubts and ensure your success!

Q1: Do I need to thaw frozen scallops before air frying?
A1: Yes, absolutely! For best results and to achieve that beautiful sear, always thaw frozen scallops completely in the refrigerator overnight. Pat them extremely dry with paper towels before seasoning and air frying. Air frying directly from frozen will result in rubbery, steamed scallops with no sear.

Q2: My scallops came out rubbery. What did I do wrong?
A2: The most common reasons for rubbery scallops are:
1. Not drying them thoroughly: Excess moisture turns to steam, preventing searing.
2. Overcrowding the air fryer basket: This also leads to steaming instead of crisping.
3. Overcooking: Scallops cook very quickly. Even a minute too long can turn them tough. Aim for an internal temperature of 125-130°F (52-54°C) for medium-rare, or 135-140°F (57-60°C) for medium.
4. No preheat: A cold air fryer won’t sear effectively.

Q3: How do I know when scallops are cooked through but not overcooked?
A3: Perfectly cooked scallops will be opaque throughout with a pearly white interior, and they should have a beautiful golden-brown crust on the outside. There might be a slight translucent center. The best way to tell for sure is to use an instant-read thermometer; aim for the temperatures mentioned above. When in doubt, it’s better to undercook slightly, as you can always cook them for another minute, but you can’t reverse overcooking.

Q4: Can I use bay scallops instead of sea scallops?
A4: Yes, you can! Bay scallops are much smaller and sweeter. The cooking time will be significantly reduced, usually to 3-5 minutes in total, with a flip halfway. Keep a very close eye on them to prevent overcooking. You’ll also want to be even more careful not to overcrowd the basket to ensure they get enough air circulation.

Q5: What are some good flavor additions for Air Fryer Scallops?
A5: The possibilities are endless! Beyond the basic salt, pepper, and garlic powder, consider adding:
* Smoked paprika for a deeper flavor.
* A pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle heat.
* Lemon zest before cooking for brightness.
* Old Bay seasoning for a classic seafood taste.
* Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or tarragon along with the garlic powder.
A drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese after cooking can also be delightful.

Final Thoughts on Air Fryer Scallops

There you have it – a comprehensive guide to making truly exceptional Air Fryer Scallops. This recipe is more than just a method; it’s an invitation to experience gourmet dining right in your own kitchen, with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. We’ve explored why this dish is rapidly becoming a favorite for its ease, health benefits, and incredible taste. From ensuring your scallops are perfectly dry for that coveted sear to understanding the nuances of air fryer cooking times, every detail matters for perfection.

Imagine serving these plump, golden-brown scallops at your next dinner party, or simply enjoying them as a quick and Easy Weeknight Dinners with a fresh salad. They represent the best of what an air fryer can offer: transforming a high-end ingredient into an accessible, everyday pleasure. This is truly one of those Air Fry Recipes that will make you wonder why you ever cooked scallops any other way. It’s a testament to how modern kitchen appliances can simplify our lives without compromising on taste or quality.

We hope you feel inspired and confident to try these Air Fryer Scallops yourself. Don’t be shy about experimenting with the suggested variations or creating your own signature flavor profile. The beauty of cooking lies in personalization!

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