Perfectly Tender Air Fryer Scallops: Your Guide to Quick & Easy Seafood Delights
Discover the simplest way to achieve restaurant-quality scallops right in your own kitchen! Air fryer scallops are a culinary game-changer, offering succulent, perfectly cooked seafood with minimal effort and in astonishingly little time. Forget the fuss of pan-searing; with just a handful of ingredients and a mere 15 minutes, you can have tender, plump sea scallops ready to indulge in straight from your air fryer. This method guarantees a beautiful golden crust and a sweet, delicate interior every single time, making it an ideal choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Why Air Frying Is the Best Method for Scallops
While classic pan-seared scallops are undeniably delicious, the air fryer offers a superior, virtually hands-free approach that yields equally, if not more, impressive results. The secret lies in the air fryer’s circulating hot air, which crisps the exterior of the scallops beautifully while locking in their natural moisture, preventing them from becoming rubbery. You get that coveted golden-brown sear without the need for excessive oil or constant monitoring, which often leads to smoke and splatters on your stovetop.
Scallops are naturally flavorful, requiring minimal dressing up to shine. Our recipe keeps it simple yet impactful with a sprinkle of classic Old Bay seasoning and savory garlic salt. These seasonings complement the delicate sweetness of the scallops without overpowering them, delivering consistently delicious results. For an elevated experience, we highly recommend serving these air-fried gems with a luscious side of homemade garlic butter – perfect for drizzling generously or dunking each tender bite. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens the entire dish, adding a zesty counterpoint to the rich seafood.
Beyond convenience, the air fryer method ensures an even cook throughout each scallop, something that can be challenging with varying sizes when pan-searing. It’s a foolproof way to prepare a dish that tastes gourmet but requires less skill and cleanup, making it accessible for home cooks of all levels. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, these air fryer scallops will quickly become a favorite in your repertoire.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Air Fryer Scallops
Preparing exquisite air fryer scallops requires only a few quality ingredients. Below, you’ll find a detailed breakdown of what you’ll need and why each component is important. For precise measurements and step-by-step instructions, refer to the printable recipe card at the very end of this post.
Ingredient Spotlight & Expert Substitution Tips
Let’s dive deeper into the key ingredients and how to make the best choices for your air fryer scallops, along with some flexible substitution suggestions.
- SCALLOPS – The star of our show! When purchasing scallops, it’s crucial to select sea scallops over bay scallops. Sea scallops are significantly larger, boasting a meatier and more substantial texture that stands up beautifully to air frying. Bay scallops, on the other hand, are much smaller and sweeter, often better suited for quick sautés in salads or pasta dishes where they won’t get lost.
- Choosing Your Scallops: Look for “dry-packed” scallops, if possible. These are scallops that haven’t been treated with phosphates, which cause them to absorb water, leading to a milky white appearance and a tougher texture when cooked. Dry-packed scallops will have a slightly off-white, almost beige color and a firm texture. Always check for a fresh, sweet, ocean-like smell; avoid any scallops with a strong, fishy odor.
- Removing the Muscle: Each sea scallop has a small, crescent-shaped muscle (the abductor muscle) attached to its side. While edible, this muscle tends to be tougher and chewier than the rest of the scallop. It’s highly recommended to remove it before cooking. To do so, simply pinch it between your thumb and forefinger and pull it off. It should detach easily.
- Frozen Scallops: You can certainly use frozen scallops for this recipe, but proper thawing is key. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or in a sealed bag submerged in a bowl of cold water for a quicker method. Once thawed, it is absolutely essential to pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels. Excess moisture will prevent the scallops from searing properly in the air fryer, resulting in a steamed texture rather than a crisp exterior.
- SEASONINGS (Old Bay Seasoning & Garlic Salt) – These two provide a foundational, savory flavor that truly elevates the scallops.
- Old Bay Seasoning: A classic seafood seasoning blend, Old Bay brings a complex, zesty, and slightly spicy flavor profile. Its mix of celery salt, paprika, black pepper, red pepper, and other spices is perfect for enhancing the natural taste of seafood.
- Garlic Salt: This provides a straightforward garlic flavor along with the necessary salt.
- Substitution Suggestions: If you don’t have Old Bay, a simple blend of paprika, onion powder, a pinch of cayenne, and black pepper can work well. You can also use plain garlic powder and regular salt, adjusting the quantities to taste. For a lighter touch, just salt and pepper are often enough to let the scallop’s natural flavor shine. Consider adding a touch of smoked paprika for depth or a tiny pinch of dried dill for a Mediterranean flair.
- ADDITIONS (Garlic Butter & Fresh Lemon Juice) – These optional elements take your scallops to the next level.
- Garlic Butter: A simple mixture of melted butter and minced garlic creates an incredibly rich and aromatic sauce perfect for dipping or drizzling. It adds a luxurious finish and extra moisture.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the cooked scallops brightens the flavors, cuts through the richness of the butter, and adds a refreshing tang that is quintessential to seafood dishes.
- Other Garnishes: Consider a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives for color and a fresh herbal note. A tiny pinch of red pepper flakes can also add a subtle heat if you enjoy a little kick.
How to Make Air Fryer Scallops: A Step-by-Step Guide
These step-by-step photos and detailed instructions are here to help you visualize how to make this incredibly easy and delicious recipe. For a convenient printable version of this recipe, complete with precise measurements and comprehensive instructions, simply Jump to Recipe at the bottom of this page.
- Prepare the Scallops: The absolute first and most crucial step for perfectly seared scallops is to remove as much moisture as possible. Using paper towels, generously pat the scallops dry on all sides. This helps them achieve a beautiful golden crust in the air fryer, preventing them from steaming. If you haven’t already, remove the small side muscle from each sea scallop.
- Season Generously: Once dry, place the scallops in a bowl or on a clean surface. Evenly season them with your garlic salt and Old Bay. Gently toss or sprinkle to ensure all surfaces are coated. This foundational seasoning will infuse every bite with delicious flavor.
- Prepare the Air Fryer Basket: Lightly spray the inside of your air fryer basket with cooking spray. This prevents sticking and helps ensure the scallops lift easily once cooked, while also contributing to that desirable crispy exterior. Ensure the entire surface where the scallops will rest is covered.
- Arrange Scallops for Optimal Airflow: Carefully place the seasoned scallops in a single layer in the air fryer basket. It is paramount not to overcrowd the basket. Proper air circulation is essential for the scallops to cook evenly and develop a crispy exterior. If your air fryer basket is too full, the scallops will steam instead of air fry. This means you will very likely need to cook them in multiple batches, depending on the size of your air fryer and the quantity of scallops. Give each scallop a little space!
- Air Fry to Perfection: Cook the scallops in your preheated air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 7-9 minutes. Make sure to turn the scallops over halfway through the cooking process (around the 3-4 minute mark) to ensure even browning and cooking on both sides. The exact cooking time may vary slightly based on the size of your scallops and the specific model of your air fryer, so keep an eye on them. They should be opaque throughout with a beautiful golden-brown sear.
- Prepare Garlic Butter (Optional): While the scallops are cooking, melt the butter in a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl. Stir in the minced garlic until fragrant. This takes just a minute or two.
- Serve Immediately: Once cooked, transfer the air fryer scallops to a serving platter. Drizzle generously with the warm garlic butter, or serve it on the side for dipping. A final squeeze of fresh lemon juice is highly recommended for an extra burst of freshness. Serve hot and enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for Air Fryer Scallops
Here are answers to some common questions and essential tips to ensure your air fryer scallops turn out perfectly every time.
While scallops are truly best enjoyed immediately after cooking for optimal tenderness and flavor, you can certainly store any leftovers. Place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to reheat, the air fryer is your best friend! Reheat them at a lower temperature (around 300-350°F or 150-175°C) for just a few minutes until warmed through, being careful not to overcook them, which can make them rubbery.
Absolutely, you can use frozen scallops for this recipe! However, for the best results, I highly recommend thawing them completely beforehand. There are a couple of key reasons for this: first, seasonings won’t stick effectively to frozen surfaces and will simply slide right off. Second, achieving an even doneness throughout all your scallops is much easier when they are not frozen. To thaw, either place them in the refrigerator overnight or submerge them (still in their sealed packaging) in a bowl of cold water for a few hours. Once thawed, always remember to pat them very dry with paper towels before seasoning and cooking – this step is crucial for a good sear.
Scallops are perfectly cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 125°F (52°C) as measured with an instant-read thermometer. The texture should be opaque throughout, with a slightly translucent center. It’s vital to monitor them closely and avoid overcooking, as scallops become tough, chewy, and lose their delicate sweetness very quickly when overdone. A minute or two can make all the difference, so err on the side of slightly undercooked rather than overcooked, as they will continue to cook slightly with residual heat after removal from the air fryer.
Yes, preheating your air fryer is highly recommended when cooking scallops. Just like a hot pan is essential for a good sear, a preheated air fryer ensures that the scallops begin cooking immediately at the desired temperature. This helps create that beautiful crust on the outside while keeping the inside tender. Preheating for 3-5 minutes at 400°F (200°C) is usually sufficient.
While the air fryer uses minimal oil, a very light brush of olive oil or avocado oil directly on the seasoned scallops can enhance the browning and crispiness. Just a thin coat is enough; too much oil can make them greasy. Combine this with spraying the basket for the best results.
Delicious Serving Suggestions for Air Fryer Scallops
Air fryer scallops are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in numerous ways. They are fantastic on their own as a sophisticated appetizer, especially when served with a vibrant dipping sauce or the suggested garlic butter. For a more substantial meal, consider them as a main course with various delightful pairings.
- As a Main Course: Toss them into a light pasta dish with olive oil, a squeeze of lemon, and fresh herbs, or serve them alongside a creamy risotto. They also pair wonderfully with fluffy rice or fragrant lemon couscous.
- Vegetable Sides: Complement their delicate flavor with simple steamed or roasted vegetables like crisp green beans, tender asparagus, or sweet roasted bell peppers. A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette is also an excellent choice.
- Potato Accompaniments: Classic mashed potatoes, roasted baby potatoes, or even crispy air-fried potato wedges make hearty and satisfying sides.
- Creative Combinations: Try them atop a bed of creamy polenta, alongside a vibrant corn salsa, or nestled into tacos with a tangy slaw for a unique twist. For an elegant touch, serve them with a champagne beurre blanc sauce.
- Wine Pairings: Light-bodied white wines such as Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or a crisp dry Rosé beautifully complement the sweetness of scallops.
More Irresistible Seafood Recipes to Try
If you loved these air fryer scallops, you’ll surely enjoy exploring more of our delicious seafood creations. Expand your culinary horizons with these other fantastic recipes:
- Scallop Pasta
- Fried Crab Legs
- Air Fryer Shrimp
- Air Fryer Crab Cakes
- Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp
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Air Fryer Scallops
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Ingredients
- 24 ounces sea scallops
- 1 Tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1 Tablespoon garlic salt
- 12 Tablespoons butter optional
- 1 Tablespoon minced garlic optional
Things You’ll Need
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Air fryer
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Vinyl gloves
Before You Begin
- For the most consistent results, try to cook scallops of similar sizes together. This ensures even cooking and prevents smaller ones from overcooking while larger ones are still raw.
- The garlic butter is optional but adds a wonderful depth of flavor and richness. You can also squeeze fresh lemon juice over the cooked scallops for a bright, zesty finish. Please note that the nutrition facts provided in this recipe card do NOT include the optional garlic butter.
- When purchasing scallops, always opt for sea scallops for this recipe due to their larger size and firmer texture, which holds up well to air frying. Bay scallops are much smaller and are typically better suited for lighter preparations like salads or quick sautés.
- Scallops are perfectly done when they reach an internal temperature of 125°F (52°C). Use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness. Be extremely careful not to overcook them, as this will result in a tough, chewy, and unpleasant texture. They cook quickly!
- If using frozen scallops, ensure they are fully thawed and meticulously patted dry before seasoning. Excess moisture will prevent proper searing.
- Preheat your air fryer for 3-5 minutes at 400°F (200°C) before adding the scallops for the best sear.
Instructions
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Thoroughly pat the sea scallops dry using paper towels. If present, remove the small side muscle from each scallop. This step is crucial for achieving a good sear.
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In a bowl, season the dried scallops evenly with garlic salt and Old Bay seasoning. Ensure all sides are lightly coated.
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Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent the scallops from sticking.
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Arrange the seasoned scallops in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not crowded. You will likely need to cook in batches to allow for proper air circulation.
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Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 7-9 minutes. Carefully turn the scallops over halfway through the cooking process (after about 3-4 minutes) to promote even browning. Scallops are done when opaque with an internal temperature of 125°F (52°C).
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While scallops are cooking, melt the butter in a small bowl or saucepan and stir in the minced garlic.
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Serve the hot air-fried scallops immediately with the garlic butter for dipping or drizzling. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice is optional but highly recommended.
Nutrition
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.