This Air Fryer Scallops recipe is ready in under 15 minutes! Large sea scallops are drizzled in fresh lemon juice, seasoned to perfection, and air fried for the perfect texture.
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What Type of Scallops to Use
I recommend large sea scallops for this recipe. Here are the various types:
- Bay scallops: Small in size with a sweet, delicate flavor. They are often used in salads, soups, stews, and pasta.
- Sea scallops: These are larger than bay scallops and have more flavor. They are often grilled, baked, or sauteed.
- Diver scallops: These are hand-harvested by divers and are considered to be some of the best quality scallops available. They have a firm texture and sweet flavor.
How They Taste
Scallops have a sweet and delicate flavor. They are generally known for their tender and juicy taste. Some people describe the flavor as slightly nutty or buttery, with a tender texture that is both creamy and slightly firm. When cooked, they can take on the flavors of the spices and sauces they are prepared with.
Air frying them gives them a mouthwatering texture with minimal effort.
How to Clean Them
How to clean them will vary based on the type that you buy. I grab mine from Butcher Box and they typically just need a good rinse and dry.
- Rinse the scallops under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- If the scallops have a small muscle on the side, use a sharp knife to cut it off and discard it. This is optional, you can leave it if you wish.
- If the scallops have a rough or gritty surface, use a small brush to gently scrub it clean.
- Rinse the scallops again and pat them dry before using.
How to Make Air Fryer Scallops
Full detailed instructions are below in the recipe card.
- Pat the scallops dry and season.
- Place the scallops in the air fryer in one single layer. Do not stack. Cook batches if needed.
- Air fry.
Air Fryer Temperature
I recommend 400 degrees.
Cook Time/How Long to Cook
Cook time is 6-8 minutes.
How to Tell When the Scallops are Done
They are done smoking when they are opaque and no longer translucent. Cooking time will vary depending on the size and how thick your scallops are. While they cook, be sure to check for the following:
- Color: The edge of the scallops should be white or light golden brown and the center should be opaque.
- Texture: Scallops should feel firm to the touch, but not tough or rubbery.
- Internal temperature: Use a meat thermometer. The scallops are cooked through when their internal temperature reaches 115-130 degrees. Some cook their seafood until it reaches 145 degrees.
Be mindful and avoid overcooking the scallops. This will result in a tough, rubbery texture.
Frozen Scallops
Frozen scallops will need 2-3 minutes of additional cook time. Be sure to remove them halfway through the cooking process to apply the oils and spices.
Can You Wrap Them in Bacon
Absolutely! If you are looking for crispy bacon, you may consider cooking the bacon half-through and then wrap the scallops and then air fry them.
Additional Ideas for Spices and How to Season Them
- Dry, white wine
- Homemade Ranch Seasoning
- Homemade Blackened Seasoning
- Homemade BBQ Seasoning
- Old Bay Seasoning
- Cajun Seasoning
- Lemon Pepper Seasoning
- Jerk Seasoning
- Breadcrumbs (sprinkle along the top along with oil or melted butter)
How to Store Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored tightly covered and sealed for 3-4 days.
How to Reheat
- Stovetop: Heat a small amount of butter or oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the scallops and cook until they are warm.
- Oven: Reheat them in a 350-degree oven until warm.
- Air Fryer: Reheat them at 350-degrees oven until warm.
- Microwave: I don’t recommend this method, it poses the greatest risk of overcooking them. If you must use it, be quick.
When reheating scallops, it is important to heat them until they are just warm and not too hot. Overheating can cause the scallops to become tough and rubbery.
Pair With These Recipes
Air Fryer Green Beans
Fried Potatoes and Onions
Steakhouse Creamed Spinach
Southern Creamed Corn
More Scallops Recipes
Baked Scallops in Lemon Butter Wine Sauce
Smoked Scallops
Scallops and Pasta in White Wine Sauce
Air Fryer Scallops
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 pound scallops
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter Melted. Measured solid.
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped parsley
- 3 garlic cloves Minced.
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Pat the scallops dry. Dry scallops will cook at an even and consistent temperature. Combine the scallops in a bowl with all of the ingredients.
- Place the scallops in the air fryer in one single layer. Do not stack. Cook batches if needed.
- When you remove the scallops from the bowl and place them in the air fryer, you may notice you have remaining liquid marinade in the bottom of the bowl. I like to use a cooking brush to glaze the top of the scallops once they are in the air fryer to ensure optimal flavor.
- Cook on 400 degrees for 6-8 minutes.
- The top of the scallop should be slightly golden-brown and the sides should look opaque all the way through. The scallops should feel firm to the touch, but still slightly soft. Overcooked scallops become tough and chewy.
Notes
- Sea scallops will work best in this recipe. Bay scallops are small and are great for pastas and soups.
- Every air fryer cooks at varying speeds. Your cook time may vary. Keep a close watch on the scallops to avoid overcooking them.
- These will not have a thick brown crust like pan-seared scallops. If the scallops have a thick brown crust, you cooked them too long.
- The top of the scallop should be slightly golden-brown and the sides should look opaque all the way through. The scallops should feel firm to the touch, but still slightly soft. Overcooked scallops become tough and chewy.