Air Fryer Scallops

❤️ Why you'll love it

Air-fried scallops are absolutely packed full of flavor and take very little time to prepare. You don't need oil or butter to cook them, and you only need a few simple ingredients and spices.

These scallops are much faster than pan-frying them on the stovetop. So, if you want a delicious seafood meal but don't want to spend a pretty penny at your local seafood restaurant, try making these air fryer scallops!

🥘 Equipment Used

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You can use any conventional air fryer on the market, though you might have to cook in more batches if your air fryer is small.

My favorite brand is Ninja Air Fryer. You can also use a Ninja Foodi, which I've really come to love as it crisps up so fast! Of course, you can use any air fryer you have in your kitchen.

🧾 Ingredients Used

• Large scallops: You can use fresh or frozen scallops. If using frozen, you may want to let them thaw in the fridge overnight before preparing them for the air fryer. You can get scallops from your local grocery store or a seafood market.
• Olive oil cooking spray: you can also use avocado oil spray.
• Spices: garlic powder, cajun seasoning, black pepper, and salt.
• Optional garnish: fresh parsley, red pepper flakes.

🔪 How To Make Air Fryer Scallops

This easy air fryer recipe is ready in no time.

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400F.
2. Season the scallops with the spices.
3. Spray the air fryer with olive oil, then place the scallops in it and arrange them in a single layer.
4. Air fry for 6-8 mins, shaking the basket halfway.
5. Garnish and enjoy!

🥫 Storing and Reheating

Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container or plastic bag in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, simply place the scallops on a baking sheet and bake at 350F until they reach your desired temperature.

You can also air fry them again, but you may need to spray more oil as the scallops will likely be drier. Use tongs when handling hot scallops so you don't burn yourself.

💭 Expert Tips

• If you are using frozen scallops, be sure to thaw them completely before air frying.
• You can also try pan-searing the scallops before finishing them in the air fryer.
• If you don't have an air fryer, you can easily make this recipe in your oven instead. Just bake at 400F for 8-10 minutes.
• Pat the scallops dry with a paper towel before adding the seasonings so that they adhere well.
• You can use a small sheet of parchment paper in your air fryer during the cooking process for easy cleanup.

Recipe Variations

• Add some melted butter and old bay seasoning for a richer flavor.
• Try this homemade creole seasoning instead if you don't have cajun seasoning.
• Serve your scallops with garlic butter, lemon zest, or lemon juice and fresh dill for extra flavor.
• If desired, add a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or red pepper flakes for garnish.
• Try coating the scallops in some pork rind crumbs before air frying for a more crunchy texture.
• If you are following a low-carb diet, try serving the scallops with roasted vegetables or a salad as a side dish.

🍽️ What can I eat this recipe with?

These easy air fryer scallops are excellent as an appetizer or snack. However, you can also serve them as a main course with some delicious low-carb sides for a complete meal. 

Some of my favorite simple sides to serve with a scallop dinner include mashed cauliflower, air fryer frozen okra, and instant pot steamed vegetables.
These scallops also make a tasty Valentine's Day appetizer!

👩‍🍳 Frequently Asked Questions

📖 Recipe