Scallops in an air fryer with browned edges on a plate
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Emma Lawson | 
15.07.2025

Scallops in an Air Fryer Recipe

Cook tender scallops in an air fryer for a delightful, easy meal. This air fryer scallops recipe is perfect for achieving crispy edges while keeping the scallops juicy inside. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy these scallops as a starter or main dish. Pair with a garlic butter for a truly indulgent experience.
Prep Time
5m
Cook
8m
Total Time
13m
Yield
serves 4
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Mixed Seafood
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Mixed Seafood

What You’ll Need for Scallops in an Air Fryer

Essential Ingredients for Cooking

  • 12 large sea scallops
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp garlic butter
  • Fresh parsley, chopped

Lemon Wedges

Add a squeeze of lemon for brightness; it complements the seafood beautifully. Just quarter a lemon and serve alongside your cooked scallops.

Why Pat Scallops Dry?

Pattings callops dry before seasoning helps them crisp better in the air fryer. This simple step ensures the edges brown nicely and remain tender inside.

Steps to Cook Scallops in Air Fryer

Cooking scallops in an air fryer is quick and easy.

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F.
  2. Pat scallops dry and season with salt and pepper.
  3. Place scallops in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
  4. Cook for 4 minutes, then flip scallops.
  5. Cook for an additional 4 minutes.
  6. Toss with melted garlic butter and sprinkle with parsley before serving.

Avoid Overcooking

To prevent scallops from becoming rubbery, ensure you do not exceed cooking time and check them frequently.
Close-up of garlic butter scallops cooked in air fryer

Nutrition for Air Fryer Scallops

Calories: 200 | Protein: 18g | Carbs: 4g | Fat: 12g

Serving Suggestions for Scallops in an Air Fryer

Serve these scallops with crusty bread to soak up the garlic butter, or alongside a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Scallops

This air fryer scallops recipe offers a quick, hassle-free approach to cooking this delicious seafood. Visit airfryerrecipe.co.uk for more tips on making the perfect scallops. Whether you try crispy air fryer scallops or bacon wrapped, the air fryer guarantees excellent results. airfryerrecipe.co.uk offers an array of exciting air fryer recipes to explore.

Explore other Recipes below!

Frequently Asked Questions about Scallops in an Air Fryer

How long to cook scallops in the air fryer?

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Preheat to 400°F and cook for 8 minutes, flipping halfway through.
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Can you make bacon wrapped air fryer scallops?

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Yes, simply wrap each scallop with a slice of bacon before cooking.
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What are crispy air fryer scallops?

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Air fryer scallops with browned edges, achieved by cooking at high heat.
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How to make garlic butter scallops in air fryer?

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After cooking, toss the scallops with melted garlic butter.
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