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Garlic Butter Air Fryer Scallops

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Garlic butter air fryer scallops are a quick, elegant seafood dish with a golden sear and rich, buttery flavor. Cooked to perfection in the air fryer and finished with a fragrant garlic butter sauce, they make a gourmet-style meal in minutes.

  • Author: Ella
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 minutes
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 2–3 servings
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Air Fryer
  • Cuisine: Seafood

Ingredients

  • 1 lb sea scallops, patted dry
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter (for coating)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for sauce)
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes, grated Parmesan for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Pat scallops dry with paper towels.
  2. Toss scallops with olive oil or melted butter, salt, and pepper.
  3. Place scallops in a single layer in air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t touch.
  4. Air fry for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and opaque in the center.
  5. Meanwhile, melt butter in a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl. Stir in garlic and cook until fragrant, then add lemon juice and parsley.
  6. Drizzle garlic butter sauce over scallops and serve immediately. Garnish with red pepper flakes or Parmesan if desired.

Notes

  • Add red pepper flakes for heat or Parmesan for richness.
  • Brown the butter before adding garlic for a nutty depth.
  • Serve over risotto, pasta, or with steamed vegetables.
  • Thaw frozen scallops completely and pat dry for best results.
  • Avoid overcooking to prevent rubbery texture—scallops should be opaque and springy.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://elladishes.com/garlic-butter-air-fryer-scallops/