Description
Garlic Butter Air Fryer Scallops are tender, juicy, and golden scallops cooked to perfection in the air fryer, then tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce. Ready in under 15 minutes, they’re elegant enough for entertaining yet easy for a weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large sea scallops (fresh or thawed if frozen)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (or 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced)
- 3 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Pat scallops dry with paper towels to remove moisture.
- Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
- Place scallops in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t touch.
- Air fry for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until scallops are opaque and lightly golden.
- Meanwhile, melt butter in a small pan and stir in minced garlic. Simmer for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Drizzle garlic butter over scallops, garnish with parsley, and serve with lemon wedges.
Notes
- Add a splash of white wine or lemon juice to the garlic butter for extra flavor.
- Sprinkle with red pepper flakes or cayenne for a spicy version.
- Serve over mashed potatoes, risotto, or pasta for a heartier meal.
- Use plant-based butter for a dairy-free option.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/3 of recipe
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 21g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
