Air Fryer Scallops Recipe
This Air Fryer Scallops recipe delivers restaurant-quality scallops with minimal fuss: golden crust, buttery garlic notes, and a tender interior. With careful drying, a butter+oil blend, and the right timing, your air fryer becomes a dependable tool for perfectly cooked scallops every time.
Ingredients
- 450 g / 1 lb large sea scallops 10–12
- 28 g / 2 tbsp unsalted butter melted
- 15 g / 1 tbsp avocado or light olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves minced (≈6–8 g)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice 15 g
- ½ tsp sea salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika optional
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or chives
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Thaw & dry: If frozen, thaw scallops overnight in fridge. Pat scallops dry with paper towels until no surface moisture remains.
- Season: Lightly season both sides with ½ tsp sea salt and ¼ tsp pepper. Let rest 5–10 minutes at room temp.
- Make butter mix: Whisk together 28 g (2 tbsp) melted butter, 15 g (1 tbsp) oil, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1 tbsp lemon juice. Cool slightly.
- Preheat air fryer: Preheat to 200°C / 400°F for 3 minutes.
- Coat & arrange: Lightly brush scallops with the butter/oil mix (reserve 1 tbsp). Place scallops in a single layer in the basket with space between them.
- Air fry: Cook at 200°C / 400°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping once at 4–5 minutes. Remove when internal temp reaches 63°C / 145°F and scallops are opaque with a golden edge.
- Finish & serve: Brush with reserved butter, sprinkle parsley, and serve immediately with lemon wedges.