These Air Fryer Scallops are proof that fancy seafood doesn’t have to be fussy. Lightly seasoned sea scallops cook up quick in the air fryer, and come out beautifully golden on the outside with a tender, buttery bite on the inside. Air frying is an easy, no-stress way to make scallops at home without standing over the stove, perfect for busy weeknights, simple entertaining, or when you’re craving something a little special without all the work. Simple ingredients, big flavor, and that sweet scallop goodness shining through, just the way we like it.

Easy Air Fryer Scallops Recipe

In this recipe, simple seasonings let the natural sweetness of the scallops shine without overpowering their delicate flavor. A light blend of pantry staples enhances the scallops while allowing their buttery texture and mild, slightly sweet taste to stay front and center.

Scallops are a rich source of protein and cooking them in the air fryer locks in moisture and creates a lightly golden exterior, making this an easy scallop recipe that delivers big flavor with very little effort. It’s the perfect approach for anyone who loves fresh seafood and wants tender, perfectly cooked air fryer scallops every single time.

Checkout this quick list of key ingredients you’ll need to make scallops in an air fryer: (Scrolls for for the full printable recipe card.)

Scallops – Frozen sea scallops make this recipe handy when you’re in the mood for seafood for supper. Just thaw and air fry.
Butter and Oil – Unsalted butter and olive oil for a rich flavor and crust.
Spices – Seafood seasoning i.e. Old Bay seasoning or your favorite brand, seasoned salt, lemon pepper or black pepper, granulated garlic or garlic powder.
Garnishes – Fresh parsley and lemon slices or lemon wedges for garnishing.

How to Make the BEST Air Fryer Scallops Recipe

Preheat the Air Fryer – If your air fryer doesn’t have a preheat option, then heat at 400 degrees F for 4 minutes.
Prep the Scallops – Thaw scallops per package directions on a paper towel lined plate. Pat dry with doubled paper towels.
Make the Seasoned Butter – Stir together melted butter, oil, seafood seasoning, seasoned salt, lemon pepper (or black pepper) and garlic.
Season Scallops – Brush scallops on all sides with butter mixture.
Transfer to Basket of Air Fryer – Line air fryer basket with paper liner or spray basket with cooking spray. Arrange scallops in a single layer, leaving space between each one in the air fryer basket.
Cook for 10 Minutes – Flip halfway through. Scallops should be opaque all the way through when done.
Serve immediately garnished with fresh parsley and lemon slices or wedges.

Kitchen Equipment to Make Scallops in Air Fryer

Large air fryer.
Small bowl and pastry brush.
Measuring cups and measuring spoons.
Tongs for turning the scallops.
Instant read thermometer.

Recipe Variations, Tips and Substitutions

Scallops – I use large, thick, and meaty, sea scallops in this recipe which are ideal for high-heat cooking methods like air frying, pan searing, or grilling. They have a mild, slightly sweet flavor and hold their shape well, which makes them perfect for recipes where you want a golden exterior and tender center.
Bay Scallops – These scallops are small, delicate, tender and sweet making them terrific for pasta sauces, quick sautés and stews. They can easily overcook in an air fryer, so if you choose to adapt this recipe using bay scallops, watch the cooking time closely to prevent overcooking them.
Seafood Seasoning – You can use your favorite seafood seasoning in this recipe. I love Seafood Magic, but you can use Old Bay Seasoning or any that your family enjoys.
Oil – You can use vegetable oil or canola oil in place of olive oil.
Cajun Air Fryer Scallops – Use Cajun seasoning in place of seafood seasoning for a little Southern heat that’s bold but not overpowering.
Parmesan Crusted Scallops – Finish the scallops with a dusting of grated Parmesan before air frying for a lightly crisp, savory crust.
Herb-Seasoned Scallops – A mix of dried parsley, thyme, or Italian seasoning adds a subtle herb flavor that pairs beautifully with seafood.
Serving Options – Serve with a fresh salad, steamed green beans, tartar sauce, a baked potato or french fries, buttered bread, alfredo pasta or rice.

Storage and Leftovers

Leftovers – Store leftover air fried scallops in an airtight container chilled in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Reheating – Reheat gently for 2-3 minutes in the air fryer.
Freezer – You can freeze leftovers for up to 1 month. thaw in the fridge and reheat just before serving.

More Easy Seafood Recipes to Make

My recipe for Kickin’ Fried Shrimp are a fan favorite!
Treat the family to Fried Catfish for supper.
Lobster Mac and Cheese is ideal for the holidays and special occasions.
Make a Shrimp Boil and day of the week in your oven!
This Hot Crab Dip is creamy and delicious.
Old fashioned canned Salmon Patties.
Crispy Panko Fried Shrimp can be enjoyed as an appetizer or an entree.
Cozy up to a bowl of Crab Corn Chowder for a bowl full of comfort.
Crawfish Rolls from Southern Living.

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