Air Fryer Scallops on the Half Shell

Savor restaurant-quality Air Fryer Scallops on the Half Shell, perfectly seared with a garlic-herb butter topping in under 10 minutes. This elegant, easy-to-follow recipe delivers tender, succulent seafood that makes for a stunning appetizer or main course.

Air Fryer Scallops on the Half Shell are a simple yet impressive way to serve tender, juicy scallops with minimal effort.

Cooking them in the air fryer gives a perfectly golden, slightly caramelized exterior while keeping the inside delicate and flavorful.

This quick and easy recipe is perfect as a seafood appetizer, a light dinner, or an elegant dish for entertaining.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just minutes for a fast seafood dish.
• Tender and Juicy: Air fryer keeps scallops soft and perfectly cooked.
• Golden, Caramelized Exterior: Slightly crisp outside adds texture and flavor.
• Minimal Prep: Uses simple ingredients for maximum impact.
• Elegant Presentation: Perfect for appetizers, dinner parties, or special occasions.

Suppose you have been looking for some great Air Fryer Seafood Recipes. In that case, some of my favorite recipes are CHILE LIME AIR FRYER SALMON, AIR FRYER SHRIMP ON THE BARBIE (OUTBACK COPYCAT RECIPE), and AIR FRYER CRAB CAKE SANDWICHES.

Ingredients Needed

• Scallops: Tender, sweet seafood with delicate, juicy, natural flavor
• Butter: Adds richness, moisture, and enhances overall seafood flavor
• All-Purpose Flour: Helps create a light coating for scallops
• Milk: Adds creaminess and smooth texture to the sauce
• Grated Cheese: Provides savory, melty topping with rich flavor
• Salt: Enhances natural flavors and balances overall seasoning
• Lemon Juice: Brightens the dish with fresh, tangy acidity
• Lemon Zest: Adds aromatic citrus flavor and subtle brightness
• Breadcrumbs: Creates a crispy, golden crust on scallops
• Melted Butter: Helps achieve golden topping and buttery richness
• Minced Parsley: Adds fresh, herbaceous flavor and visual appeal

Recipe Variations

• Cheesy Garlic: Mix garlic powder into the melted butter and top with extra grated cheese for a garlicky, cheesy twist.
• Herb-Infused: Add fresh or dried herbs like thyme, oregano, or dill to the butter or breadcrumb topping.
• Spicy Kick: Sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika on top for a subtle heat.
• Citrus Twist: Add extra lemon zest or a drizzle of orange juice for bright, citrusy flavor.
• Parmesan Crunch: Substitute breadcrumbs with panko mixed with Parmesan for a crispier, nutty topping.
• Bacon Topping: Crumble cooked bacon over the scallops before serving for extra indulgence.
• Mini Scallop Bites: Use smaller scallops and adjust air fryer time for bite-sized appetizers.

How To Make Air Fryer Scallops on the Half Shell

Step One: In a large saucepan, boil a batch of water, large enough to cover the scallops. And once the water is boiling, add the scallops, cook for about 5 minutes, just enough for them to become opaque. Drain the scallops.

Step Two: In a small frying pan, add the butter, over low heat, mix in the flour, to make a rue, then add the milk, and about 1 cup of water, continue to simmer until the sauce has thickened. Mix in the grated cheese, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Then toss in the scallops and fry for about 2 minutes.

Step Three: Then place the scallops and the sauce into the shells.  In a small bowl, mix the bread crumbs and melted butter. Mix well.  Drop the melted butter/bread crumb mixture over the scallops. Sprinkle with some fresh diced parsley (optional). Place the shells into the air fryer basket or tray. Then set the air fryer temperature to 300 degrees F for 5 minutes, or until the bread crumbs turn golden brown.

Air Fryer Scallops on the Half Shell

• Pat scallops dry: Ensures a tender interior and prevents watery sauce.
• Cook just until opaque: Overcooking scallops makes them rubbery.
• Don’t overcrowd: Place shells in a single layer in the air fryer for even cooking.
• Use fresh scallops: Fresh seafood gives the best flavor and texture.
• Golden topping: Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter for a perfectly crisp, golden finish.
• Optional garnishes: Sprinkle fresh parsley or a little extra lemon zest before serving.

Storing Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store cooked scallops in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Reheat carefully: Gently warm in the air fryer or oven for 1–2 minutes to maintain crispiness.
• Do not freeze: Freezing may alter the texture of both scallops and breadcrumb topping.

Other Cooking Instructions

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the prepared scallops on a foil-lined baking sheet and bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the scallops are opaque and the breadcrumb topping is golden.
• Skillet Method: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of butter or oil. Cook scallops in the creamy sauce for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Finish with a sprinkle of breadcrumbs in the skillet if desired.
• Broiler Method: Preheat the broiler. Arrange scallops on a baking sheet and broil 2–4 minutes, keeping a close eye, until the breadcrumb topping is golden and scallops are opaque.

Air Fryer Scallops on the Half Shell Recipe Faqs

Can I use frozen scallops? Yes, but thaw completely and pat dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture.

How long should scallops cook in the air fryer? Typically 5 minutes at 300°F, but timing may vary slightly by air fryer model.

Can I make this dish ahead of time? You can prep the scallops and sauce in advance, but assemble and air fry just before serving for the best texture.

What should I serve with these scallops? They pair well with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or rice pilaf.

How do I prevent scallops from overcooking? Cook just until they turn opaque and slightly firm. Overcooking makes them rubbery.

Can I omit the cheese or make it dairy-free? Yes, substitute with a dairy-free cheese or skip entirely, adjusting the sauce thickness as needed.

More Easy Air Fryer Seafood Recipes

• AIR FRYER SHRIMP PO’BOY
• AIR FRYER GARLIC BUTTER SHRIMP
• EASY AIR FRYER COCONUT SHRIMP
• AIR FRYER OLD BAY SHRIMP
• LEMON DILL AIR FRYER SALMON

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