7-Minute Air Fryer Scallops {Extra Juicy & Tender!}
Learn how to make air fryer scallops that are juicy, tender, and taste so fancy. Ready in just 7 minutes.
Love cooking seafood in the air fryer? Try my air fryer salmon, air fryer shrimp, and air fryer cod next.
I’d always been intimidated by cooking scallops because they are so darn expensive and not worth the risk. Luckily, I found that cooking them in the air fryer is a surefire way to perfectly cooked scallops every single time.
Table of Contents
Why I love this recipe
- Quick. From prep to plate, these scallops take barely any time to make.
- Healthy. Scallops are naturally packed with protein and have very little fat. They also contain high levels of vitamin b12, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids (source).
- Easy to customize. While I like to keep the seasonings simple, you can jazz them up with different sauces, spices, or even some dressing.
- Fail-proof. Again, I repeat. You will NOT mess them up by cooking them in the air fryer.
Ingredients needed
- Sea scallops (bay scallops). When choosing scallops, look for ones that are bright, white, and tender to the touch. Avoid slimy or discolored ones. In terms of size, I prefer smaller/medium ones, as they cook evenly and are naturally sweeter.
- Kosher salt and black pepper. To season.
- Butter. Unsalted and melted butter. This adds some richness to the scallops without detracting from the flavor.
- Fresh parsley. Finely chopped.
- Lemon slices. To serve.
How to make air fryer scallops
I’ve included step-by-step photos below to make this recipe easy to follow at home. For the full printable recipe instructions and ingredient quantities, scroll to the recipe card at the bottom of this post.
Step 1: Season. Pat dry the scallops with paper towel, then season with salt and pepper. Brush some butter over the scallops before cooking.
Step 2: Air fry. Generously grease an air fryer basket, add a single layer of scallops, and cook for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Step 3: Serve. Brush them with more butter, sprinkle finely chopped parsley over them, and serve with sliced lemon.
Arman’s recipe tips
- Avoid over-cooking the scallops as they are prone to becoming rubbery. Once they are golden brown and slightly firm at the edges, they are ready to be enjoyed. You can also use an instant-read thermometer and ensure the scallops reach an internal temperature of 125-130F.
- Patting dry the scallops before seasoning is SO important. If there is any liquid on them, the air fryer will create steam which will make them soft and not crispy.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket, as this can affect the cooking time and texture.
Flavor variations
Like most seafood, scallops are a blank canvas! Here are some ideas to jazz up their flavor:
- Add more seasonings. Smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper are fantastic options for a spicy, smoky kick. Otherwise, Cajun seasoning and Old Bay seasoning are two classics.
- Infuse with garlic. Make garlic butter by whisking one tablespoon of minced garlic with the butter.
- Marinate the scallops. For a fun flavor twist, marinate them in some sauces, like eel sauce or bulgogi sauce.
Storage instructions
To store. Place leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to two days.
To freeze. Once the scallops have cooled to room temperature, place them in a shallow container and store them in the freezer for up to two months.
Reheating. Reheat in the air fryer or microwave until warm.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can use frozen scallops, but you’ll have to cook them for 3 minutes longer or thaw them completely to cook them at their usual time.
More seafood recipes to try
Pat dry the scallops to remove excess moisture, then sprinkle with salt and pepper. Brush one tablespoon of butter over them.
Generously grease an air fryer basket with cooking spray and add a single layer of scallops.
Air fry at 200C/400F for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through. Scallops are cooked once slightly golden and firm to touch.
Remove them from the air fryer basket, and brush more butter. Sprinkle with finely chopped parsley and serve with fresh lemon juice.
Serving: 1servingCalories: 95kcalCarbohydrates: 3gProtein: 7gFat: 6gSodium: 560mgPotassium: 159mgFiber: 1gSugar: 0.4gVitamin A: 496IUVitamin C: 12mgCalcium: 14mgIron: 1mgNET CARBS: 2g
Originally published December 2022, updated and republished April 2024
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