Air Fryer Scallops With Ritz Crackers 

These Air Fryer Scallops with Ritz Crackers are crispy, golden, and packed with buttery, savory flavor. Quick to prepare, they make a perfect appetizer or a delicious, easy seafood dinner.

Crispy, golden, and full of buttery flavor, these Air Fryer Scallops with Ritz Crackers turn a simple seafood dinner into a restaurant-quality meal.

The crushed crackers create a crunchy coating that perfectly complements the tender, juicy scallops inside.

Quick to make and packed with flavor, they’re ideal as an appetizer, a weeknight dinner, or a special occasion treat.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

• Crispy, golden coating: The Ritz crackers create a perfectly crunchy exterior.
• Tender and juicy inside: Scallops stay soft and flavorful when air fried.
• Quick and easy: Ready in minutes, perfect for weeknight dinners or appetizers.
• Minimal ingredients: Uses simple pantry staples for maximum flavor.
• Impressive presentation: Feels like a restaurant-quality seafood dish with minimal effort.

If you are looking for some other great and easy Air Fryer Seafood Recipes, some of my favorites are AIR FRYER FROZEN COCONUT SHRIMP, AIR FRYER FLOUNDER FISH, AIR FRYER LEMON PEPPER SHRIMP,

Ingredients Needed

• Large Sea Scallops: Tender, sweet seafood with a delicate, juicy texture
• All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure and helps coating adhere to scallops
• Ritz Crackers, finely crushed: Creates a crispy, buttery, golden exterior on scallops
• Butter, melted: Adds rich, savory flavor and helps crisp coating
• Garlic Powder: Provides aromatic, savory flavor without overpowering scallops
• Paprika: Adds mild smokiness and enhances color of coating
• Lemon, juiced: Brightens flavor and balances richness with tanginess
• Salt and Pepper: Enhances natural seafood flavor and balances seasoning
• Egg, large: Binds flour and cracker coating to scallops securely

Recipe Variations

• Parmesan Crunch: Mix grated Parmesan into the crushed Ritz crackers for extra cheesy flavor.
• Herb-Infused: Add dried or fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or dill to the coating.
• Spicy Kick: Sprinkle a bit of cayenne or smoked paprika into the cracker mixture for heat.
• Lemon Zest: Add finely grated lemon zest to the coating for a bright, citrusy flavor.
• Coconut Twist: Substitute part of the cracker crumbs with unsweetened shredded coconut for a tropical crunch.
• Garlic Butter Finish: Brush scallops with garlic butter after cooking for extra richness.
• Mini Scallop Bites: Use smaller scallops for bite-sized appetizers; adjust air fryer time accordingly.

How To Make Air Fryer Scallops With Ritz Crackers

Step One: Dry the scallops with a kitchen towel or paper towel, and then lightly season the scallops with salt and pepper.

Step Two: Set up three shallow dishes for a breading station. In the first dish, place the all-purpose flour seasoned with salt and pepper. In the second dish, beat an egg. In the third dish, combine the finely crushed Ritz Crackers with garlic powder and paprika.

Step Three: First, coat each scallop lightly in the flour, shaking off any excess. Dip next into the beaten egg, and finally, press into the cracker mixture, ensuring they are well-coated on all sides.

Step Four: Before placing the scallops in the air fryer, drizzle or brush them with melted butter. Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees F (200°C) for 2-3 minutes.

Step Five: Arrange the scallops in a single layer in the air fryer basket, set cook time for8-10 minutes, or until they are golden brown and the scallops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Air Fryer Scallops With Ritz Crackers Recipe Tips

• Pat scallops dry: Removing moisture ensures a crispy, golden coating.
• Don’t overcrowd the basket: Arrange scallops in a single layer for even cooking.
• Check cooking time: Air fryer models vary; scallops typically cook 6–8 minutes.
• Brush with butter lightly: Helps achieve a crunchy, golden exterior.
• Serve immediately: Enjoy scallops fresh for the best texture and flavor.

Storing Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store cooked scallops in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Reheat carefully: Gently reheat in the air fryer or oven for 1–2 minutes to maintain crispiness.
• Do not freeze: Freezing may make the scallops rubbery and affect the coating.

Other Cooking Instructions

• Oven Method: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place breaded scallops on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
• Skillet Option: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a small amount of AIP-compliant or neutral oil. Sear scallops 2–3 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.

Air Fryer Scallops With Ritz Crackers Recipe Faqs

Can I use frozen scallops? Yes, but thaw completely and pat dry to ensure even cooking and crispiness.

How long do scallops take in the air fryer? Usually 6–8 minutes at 400°F, depending on size and air fryer model.

Can I freeze cooked scallops? Freezing is not recommended as it can make the coating soggy and scallops rubbery.

Can I make this dish garlic-free? Yes, simply omit garlic powder for a milder flavor.

What should I serve with Ritz-coated scallops? Perfect with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or cauliflower rice.

How do I keep scallops tender? Avoid overcooking; remove immediately once opaque and slightly firm.

More Easy Air Fryer Recipes

• AIR FRYER BOSTON BROWN BREAD
• AIR FRYER HOMEMADE PIZZA ROLLS
• EASY AIR FRYER COPYCAT DUNKIN DONUTS MAPLE BACON CROISSANTS
• AIR FRYER MAPLE BACON DIP
• AIR FRYER PERUVIAN LOMO SALTADO

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