Air fryer scallops are quick and easy to make with only a handful of ingredients. With just 15 minutes of time, you’ll have tender, plump scallops ready to devour straight from the air fryer!
Why this recipe works
Air fryer scallops are just as good as your classic pan-seared scallops, the only difference is your method of cooking. Scallops don’t need a heap of dressing up, just a sprinkle of Old Bay seasoning and garlic salt will yield delicious results. Serve with a side of garlic butter to drizzle or dunk in to take them to the next level!
Ingredients you will need
Get all measurements, ingredients, and instructions in the printable version at the end of this post.
Ingredient Info and Substitution Suggestions
SCALLOPS – When buying scallops, look for sea scallops. Bay scallops are much smaller and are better in salads. You can either remove the muscle attached to the sea scallops or cook them as is. To remove, pull the muscle off before seasoning and air frying.
ADDITIONS – The garlic butter is optional but adds a nice flavor element. You can also squeeze fresh lemon juice over the scallops.
How to Make Air Fryer Scallops
These step by step photos and instructions are here to help you visualize how to make this recipe. You can Jump to Recipe to get the printable version of this recipe, complete with measurements and instructions at the bottom.
- Using paper towels, pat the scallops dry.
- Season scallops with garlic salt and Old Bay.
- Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
- Place scallops in the air fryer basket being careful not to crowd them. You need the air to be able to circulate, which means you will likely have to work in batches.
- Cook at 400 F for 7-9 minutes, turning scallops over halfway through the cooking process.
- Melt butter and stir in minced garlic. Serve with garlic butter for dipping or drizzling.
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips
Though scallops are best enjoyed right away, you can store any leftovers in an air-tight container kept in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer.
While you can use frozen scallops, I highly recommend thawing them beforehand as the seasonings will not be able to stick to anything frozen and will slide right off. On top of that, it’s much easier to get an even doneness throughout all of your scallops if they are not frozen. Thaw frozen scallops in the refrigerator overnight or in a bowl of cold water with the packaging still intact. Be sure to pat them dry with paper towels before beginning.
Scallops are done cooking when they reach an internal temperature of 125F on an instant read thermometer. Be careful not to overcook scallops as they become tough and chewy when overdone.
Serving Suggestions
Air fryer scallops can be enjoyed on their own as an appetizer or main course. They’re delicious tossed into pasta with olive oil or butter, or served with rice, lemon couscous, potatoes, green beans, and asparagus.
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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!
Print It Rate ItIngredients
- 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
Before You Begin
- If you have various sized scallops, try cooking similar sized scallops together for even cooking.
- The garlic butter is optional but add a nice flavor element. You can also squeeze fresh lemon juice over the scallops. The nutrition facts listed in this recipe card does NOT include the garlic butter.
- When buying scallops, look for sea scallops. Bay scallops are much smaller and are better in salads.
- Scallops are done cooking when they reach an internal temperature of 125F on an instant read thermometer. Be careful not to overcook scallops as they become tough and chewy when overdone.
Instructions
- Using paper towels, pat the scallops dry.
- Season scallops with garlic salt and Old Bay.
- Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
- Place scallops in the air fryer basket being careful not to crowd them. You need the air to be able to circulate, which means you will likely have to work in batches.
- Cook at 400 F for 7-9 minutes, turning scallops over halfway through the cooking process.
- Melt butter and stir in minced garlic. Serve with garlic butter for dipping or drizzling.
Nutrition
Chef Antoine Davis
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David L Reynolds says
I want to try this recipe, but first I would like to know if I need to pre heat the air fryer.
Amanda Davis says
If the recipe does not state to preheat the air fryer then it is not necessary. That is the case with this recipe. Hope that helps!