Garlic Butter Air Fryer Scallops

Garlic butter air fryer scallops are a simple yet elegant dish that delivers tender, perfectly cooked scallops with a golden crust and rich, buttery flavor. The air fryer makes it quick and mess-free, while the garlic butter sauce adds a luxurious touch that elevates the entire plate. I love how fast and easy it is to prepare, yet the result feels like a gourmet seafood dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it combines convenience with restaurant-quality flavor. The scallops turn out perfectly seared on the outside and buttery-soft on the inside, all without a hot pan or splatter. It’s a great option when I want something impressive but don’t want to spend a lot of time in the kitchen. With garlic, butter, and a touch of seasoning, the flavor is rich but balanced—and pairs well with everything from salad to pasta.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

sea scallops (patted dry)
olive oil or melted butter (for coating)
salt
black pepper
garlic (minced)
unsalted butter (for the sauce)
lemon juice
fresh parsley (chopped, optional for garnish)
optional: red pepper flakes or grated parmesan

Directions

1. I preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and pat the scallops dry with paper towels to help them sear.

2. I toss the scallops with a little olive oil or melted butter, salt, and pepper.

3. I place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t touch.

4. I cook them for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden and opaque in the center.

5. While they cook, I melt butter in a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, stir in the garlic, and cook just until fragrant. I add lemon juice and parsley to finish the sauce.

6. I remove the scallops from the air fryer and drizzle the garlic butter over them before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 2–3 servings.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 6–8 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

Sometimes I add a pinch of crushed red pepper for a little heat or finish with freshly grated Parmesan for extra richness. For a deeper flavor, I brown the butter before adding the garlic. I’ve also served these scallops over risotto, creamy pasta, or alongside steamed veggies for a full meal.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover scallops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, I warm them gently in the air fryer at 300°F (150°C) for 3–4 minutes or in a skillet over low heat with a touch of butter. I avoid microwaving, as it can overcook the scallops and make them rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use frozen scallops?

Yes, I thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking. Removing moisture is key for getting a good sear in the air fryer.

How do I know when scallops are done?

They’re done when they’re opaque and springy to the touch. Overcooked scallops become tough, so I watch them closely around the 6-minute mark.

Can I use bay scallops instead?

Yes, but they’re smaller and cook faster—usually in about 4–5 minutes. I keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

Do I need to flip them in the air fryer?

Yes, flipping helps ensure even cooking and browning on both sides, especially if I want that golden crust.

What can I serve with these scallops?

I usually pair them with lemon rice, garlic mashed potatoes, a green salad, or roasted asparagus. They’re also great on pasta tossed with olive oil and herbs.

Conclusion

Garlic butter air fryer scallops are one of my favorite ways to enjoy seafood at home—quick, flavorful, and surprisingly easy. The air fryer gives them a perfect texture without the hassle of pan-searing, and the garlic butter adds just the right richness. Whether I serve them for a weeknight treat or a date-night dinner, they always make a delicious impression.