Are you looking for an easy yet impressive seafood dish to prepare at home? Look no further than air fryer scallops! This quick, fuss-free recipe allows you to achieve perfectly golden, tender scallops every single time with minimal effort. Flavored with a delectable lemon garlic butter sauce, these scallops make for a restaurant-quality dish right from your kitchen.
By using the air fryer, you’ll also cut down on excess oil while getting a light, crispy exterior and juicy, tender inside. Bonus—it all comes together in under 15 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight meal or an elegant appetizer for guests.
Let’s jump into everything you’ll need to whip up these delightful air fryer scallops!
Ingredients for Air Fryer Scallops
To bring out the best in your scallops, you’ll need just a handful of simple ingredients. These flavors uplift the natural sweetness of the scallops while adding a burst of freshness. Here’s what you’ll need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound sea scallops (preferably dry scallops for a better sear)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil to coat the scallops
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder for a savory depth
- 1 lemon (both zest and juice)—to add brightness and a slight tang
Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter for rich, buttery flavor
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (optional, but great for color and freshness)
These easy-to-find ingredients work wonders to enhance the natural flavor of the scallops without overpowering them.
Essential Equipment for Perfect Air Fryer Scallops
While the ingredients are simple, having the right tools in your kitchen will make preparing air fryer scallops a breeze. Here’s the equipment you will need:
Equipment:
- Air Fryer : The star of this recipe. An air fryer gives the scallops a beautifully seared exterior while keeping the inside soft and tender.
- Tongs or Spatula : For turning the scallops halfway through cooking without breaking them apart.
- Small Bowl : To mix your lemon garlic butter sauce.
- Paper Towels : Essential for patting the scallops dry before cooking, helping you achieve that crispy browned exterior.
Having these items on hand will make the process not only smooth but also enjoyable.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer
Before diving in, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes. Preheating helps to kick-start the cooking process, ensuring that your scallops will cook evenly and have that perfect golden edge.
Step 2: Prep Your Scallops
Once the air fryer is heating up, it’s time to get the scallops ready.
- Pat the scallops dry: Use paper towels to gently blot any excess moisture off the scallops. This is a crucial step because dry scallops will sear better, leading to that beautiful golden-brown crust we’re after.
- Season: In a large mixing bowl, toss the scallops with 1 tablespoon olive oil , garlic powder , salt , and pepper . Make sure they’re evenly coated so that each scallop has the right amount of flavoring.
Step 3: Cook the Scallops
Now that your scallops are prepped, it’s time to let the air fryer work its magic!
- Arrange the scallops in the air fryer basket: Make sure to place the scallops in a single layer, leaving some space between each one. This is important because overcrowding the basket can prevent the scallops from cooking evenly and getting that crispy surface. If you’re working with a smaller air fryer, feel free to cook in batches.
- Air fry the scallops: Cook the scallops at 400°F (200°C) for about 6-8 minutes , turning them halfway through cooking. Scallops are done when they become golden brown on the outside and opaque on the inside. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking—they should feel firm yet springy to the touch.
Chef’s Tip: Scallops cook quickly, so be careful not to overcook them as they can become rubbery. Ideally, scallops should reach an internal temperature of 125°F (52°C) for the perfect, tender texture.
Step 4: Make the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce
While the scallops are crisping up in the air fryer, you’ll have just enough time to whip up the easy lemon garlic butter sauce, which adds a burst of flavor to complement the delicate sweetness of the scallops.
- Melt the butter: In a small bowl, microwave 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter until it’s fully melted.
- Add the citrusy punch: Once the butter is melted, stir in the zest and juice of 1 lemon . This brightens the dish and balances out the richness of the butter.
- Optional parsley: For a pop of color and a mildly peppery flavor, you could also add 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley .
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
As soon as the scallops are done cooking, remove them from the air fryer and get ready to take your taste buds on a journey!
- Drizzle the sauce: Place the scallops on a serving plate, and immediately drizzle your warm lemon garlic butter sauce over the scallops. This not only enhances the flavor but also keeps them tender and juicy.
- Optional garnish: For a little extra flair, garnish your scallops with some additional lemon zest or a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a fresh, vibrant look and taste.
- Serve immediately: Scallops are best enjoyed right after cooking when they’re juicy and hot. Pair them with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, a light salad, or even some buttery mashed potatoes.
Chef’s Tip: Scallops are delicate and can lose their ideal texture if they sit too long. If you must delay serving them, cover them loosely with foil to keep them warm.
Storage & Reheating
Though scallops are best when served fresh, here’s how you can store them if you have leftovers.
To Store:
- Place your cooled scallops in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days .
To Reheat:
- Reheat them gently in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 2-3 minutes until warmed through. Be cautious during reheating so as not to overcook and toughen up the scallops.
Freezing:
- Freezing is generally not recommended for cooked scallops, as it can alter their texture. If you must freeze them, store them in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 1 month . Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
With that, you’re ready to enjoy mouthwatering air fryer scallops anytime!
Conclusion
And there you have it—a simple yet absolutely delicious recipe for air fryer scallops that’s sure to impress with minimal effort. The combination of tender scallops, crispy seared edges, and the bright notes from the lemon garlic butter sauce make this dish a crowd-pleaser. It’s an excellent option whether you’re preparing a quick weekday dinner or hosting guests. The ease of the air fryer only adds to the list of reasons to make this a go-to seafood recipe in your rotation.
Feel free to customize this dish with your favorite seasonings or sides, and don’t forget—scallops cook fast, so enjoy the process without delay!
Happy Cooking!