Crispy Air-Fried Scallops with Lemon Butter Sauce

Air Fried Scallops with Lemon Butter are quick to prepare, require only a handful of simple ingredients, and work well with many sides. The scallops turn out tender and flavorful, and the bright lemon butter elevates every bite.

Why I Love It:

• Cooks in Under 10 Minutes – Scallops cook very quickly in the air fryer, making them ideal for a fast weeknight meal.
• Simple Seasoning – A few pantry spices are all you need for well-seasoned scallops.
• Versatile – This protein pairs beautifully with vegetables, grains, pasta, or a fresh salad.

Ingredients

• Scallops – Sea scallops are used here; bay scallops work too but will need less cooking time.
• Spices – Lemon pepper, paprika, and salt.
• Lemon Butter – Lemon zest, fresh parsley, melted butter, and minced garlic.
• Cooking Spray – For the air fryer basket.

How To Make Air Fried Scallops

1. Dry and Season – Pat scallops dry with paper towels. Season both sides with lemon pepper, paprika, and a pinch of kosher salt.
2. Air Fry – Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange scallops in a single layer without touching, and lightly spray their tops. Air fry at 400 degrees F for 5–6 minutes, until scallops are opaque and register about 125 degrees F internally.
3. Make Lemon Butter – Combine melted butter, lemon zest, minced garlic, and finely chopped parsley. Drizzle over the cooked scallops or serve on the side for dipping.

Substitutions

• Cajun or Old Bay – Swap lemon pepper and paprika for Cajun or Old Bay seasoning for a different flavor profile.

Variations

• Crispy Breaded Scallops – For a crunchy exterior, dip scallops in melted butter, then dredge in breadcrumbs mixed with the spices before cooking.
• Oven Method – Place scallops on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 400 degrees F for 14–16 minutes.
• Stovetop – Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high and cook seasoned scallops 4–5 minutes per side until opaque and firm.

Equipment

• Air Fryer – Either a basket-style or toaster-oven style air fryer works. If you don’t have one, use the oven or stove methods outlined above.

Leftovers and Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Serve cold on a salad or reheat briefly in the air fryer for best texture.

Recipe Tips

• Dry Scallops – Thoroughly drying scallops before seasoning helps achieve a nicer exterior.
• Watch the Time – Scallops cook quickly; remove them when opaque and around 125 degrees F to avoid a rubbery texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

How To Thaw Scallops

• Refrigerator – Thaw frozen scallops in the refrigerator overnight.
• Cold Water – For quicker thawing, place sealed scallops in a bowl of cold water; they should thaw in 1–2 hours. Keep the water cold.

Serving Ideas

• Grilled or Roasted Vegetables – Pair scallops with roasted broccolini or other seasonal vegetables.
• Pasta – Serve with lemony herbed orzo or a creamy pasta for a comforting plate.
• Rice or Whole Grains – Scallops are excellent over rice, quinoa, or farro.
• Salad – Top a bed of peppery greens for a light meal.

Other Air Fryer Seafood Recipes

• Air Fryer Crab Cakes – Crunchy outside, tender inside, and full of flavor.
• Air Fryer Salmon – Fast, healthy, and ideal for busy weeknights with a simple seasoning rub.

My Debut Cookbook is available now: A Little Something Sweet features 75 single-serve recipes. Preorder or purchase details can be found through the author’s official channels.

Recipe