Can I Cook Frozen Scallops in an Air Fryer Perfectly Every Time

Yes, you can cook frozen scallops in an air fryer perfectly every time—just skip thawing and use a high heat setting (400°F) for a quick, golden sear. Lightly oil the scallops and cook in a single layer to ensure even crisping and tender, restaurant-quality results in under 10 minutes.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can cook frozen scallops in an air fryer—no thawing needed for quick, even results.
• Preheat the air fryer to ensure crispy edges and tender centers every time.
• Pat scallops dry before seasoning to enhance browning and prevent steaming.
• Cook in a single layer to avoid overcrowding and promote even cooking.
• Flip halfway through cooking for uniform texture and optimal doneness.
• Use a 375°F setting for 8–10 minutes, adjusting for scallop size.
• Check internal temperature—145°F ensures safe, perfectly cooked scallops.

Can I Cook Frozen Scallops in an Air Fryer Perfectly Every Time

Picture this: It’s a busy weeknight, and you’re craving something delicious, elegant, and restaurant-quality—but you don’t have the time (or energy) to defrost and sauté fresh seafood. You glance at your freezer and spot a bag of frozen scallops. You’ve heard air fryers can do wonders with frozen food, but can you really cook frozen scallops in an air fryer and get that golden, tender perfection?

Good news: Yes, you absolutely can. Cooking frozen scallops in an air fryer isn’t just possible—it’s one of the easiest, fastest, and most reliable ways to enjoy this delicate seafood without sacrificing flavor or texture. Whether you’re a seafood newbie or a kitchen pro looking for a shortcut, this method delivers restaurant-worthy results with minimal effort. And the best part? No need to thaw. Just pop them in, set the timer, and let the air fryer do the magic. But like any shortcut, there are a few tricks to get it just right. Let’s dive into how to cook frozen scallops in an air fryer perfectly—every single time.

Why the Air Fryer Is a Game-Changer for Frozen Scallops

When it comes to cooking seafood, especially delicate scallops, traditional methods like pan-searing require precision: the right oil, perfect heat, and careful timing. One second too long, and they turn rubbery. But the air fryer? It’s like having a sous chef who never gets distracted. It uses rapid hot air circulation to cook food evenly, giving you crispy edges and juicy centers—without the guesswork.

How Air Frying Mimics Pan-Searing (Without the Mess)

You might think, “But pan-seared scallops get that beautiful golden crust!” And you’re right. But here’s the secret: an air fryer can achieve a similar sear thanks to its high heat and convection. The circulating air hits all sides of the scallops, creating a light crust while keeping the inside tender. Think of it as a mini convection oven with turbo speed. No flipping required (though we’ll talk about when it helps), and no splattered oil on your stovetop.

Speed, Convenience, and Minimal Cleanup

Frozen scallops go straight from freezer to air fryer—no thawing, no draining, no mess. Most air fryers preheat in 2–3 minutes, and cooking time is usually under 10 minutes. That means dinner is ready in under 15 minutes. Plus, air fryer baskets are non-stick and dishwasher-safe, so cleanup is a breeze. For busy weeknights or impromptu guests, this is a total win.

Healthier Than Frying, But Just as Satisfying

Scallops are naturally low in fat and high in protein (about 20g per 3-ounce serving). Air frying uses little to no oil—sometimes just a light spray—so you get all the flavor and texture of a seared scallop without the extra calories or greasiness. A light mist of avocado or olive oil spray (1–2 seconds) is all you need to boost browning and prevent sticking.

Step-by-Step: How to Cook Frozen Scallops in an Air Fryer

Now that you’re sold on the idea, let’s walk through the process. This method works for both dry-packed (preferred) and wet-packed scallops, though dry-packed will brown better. Here’s how to do it like a pro.

1. Prep the Scallops (Yes, Even Frozen Ones)

Even though they’re frozen, take 30 seconds to check the scallops. If they’re stuck together, gently separate them with your fingers or a fork. This ensures even cooking. If your scallops are wet-packed (often soaked in a phosphate solution), they may release more moisture. That’s okay—just space them out well in the basket. No need to pat dry; the air fryer will handle the moisture.

2. Preheat the Air Fryer (Yes, Really)

Preheating is crucial for that golden crust. Set your air fryer to 400°F (205°C) and let it run for 3–5 minutes. This mimics the hot pan you’d use for searing. If your model doesn’t have a preheat setting, just run it empty for a few minutes. A hot basket = better browning.

3. Arrange Scallops in a Single Layer

Place the frozen scallops in the basket, leaving at least 1/2 inch of space between each. Overcrowding traps steam and leads to steaming instead of searing. If you have a small basket, cook in batches. Pro tip: For even better browning, lightly spray the scallops with oil *after* placing them in the basket. This prevents the spray from pooling and steaming the bottoms.

4. Cook in Two Stages (The Secret to Perfection)

Here’s the game-changer: cook in two phases.

• First stage: Cook at 400°F for 4 minutes. This starts the cooking process and begins browning.
• Second stage: Open the basket, gently flip the scallops (use silicone-tipped tongs to avoid scratching), and cook for another 3–5 minutes, depending on size.

Large scallops (U10–U20, meaning 10–20 per pound) may need closer to 5 minutes on the second side. Medium (U30–U40) do well with 3–4 minutes. The goal? Internal temp of 120–125°F—scallops continue cooking slightly after removal, so don’t overdo it.

5. Rest Before Serving (Yes, Even for Seafood)

Remove the scallops and let them rest on a plate for 1–2 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, so every bite is moist and flavorful. Serve immediately—scallops are best hot.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even with the best method, things can go wrong. Here are the top pitfalls and how to sidestep them.

Overcrowding the Basket

This is the #1 mistake. When scallops touch, they steam instead of sear. You’ll end up with pale, rubbery scallops instead of golden, tender ones. Solution: Cook in batches. It takes an extra 5 minutes but makes all the difference. If you have a 5-quart air fryer, stick to 6–8 large scallops per batch.

Not Preheating

Skipping preheat means your scallops hit a cold basket, which delays searing and leads to uneven cooking. Always preheat—it’s worth the extra 3 minutes.

Overcooking (The Rubber Band Effect)

Scallops go from tender to tough in seconds. Overcooked scallops feel like erasers. Remember: they’ll keep cooking off the heat. When they’re opaque in the center and spring back when pressed, they’re done. Use a meat thermometer if you’re unsure—120°F is ideal. For visual cues, look for a slight translucency in the center (like a soft jelly).

Using Too Much Oil

A light spray is enough. Too much oil can drip into the heating element, causing smoke or a greasy mess. A 1–2 second spray from a distance (6–8 inches) is perfect. Or, brush lightly with oil using a pastry brush.

Ignoring Size Differences

Not all scallops are the same size. Small bay scallops cook faster than large sea scallops. Adjust time accordingly. When in doubt, start with less time and add more as needed.

Flavor Boosters: How to Elevate Your Air-Fried Scallops

Plain scallops are delicious, but a few simple upgrades take them from great to unforgettable.

Seasoning Like a Pro

Scallops have a mild, sweet flavor that pairs well with bold seasonings. Try these combos:

• Classic: Sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of smoked paprika.
• Garlic-Herb: Minced garlic, dried thyme, and lemon zest (add after cooking to avoid burning).
• Spicy: Cayenne, chili flakes, and a dash of cumin.
• Asian-Inspired: Soy sauce (lightly brushed after cooking), ginger, and sesame oil.

Season *after* cooking for maximum flavor. Adding salt before cooking can draw out moisture and inhibit browning.

Sauces and Dips That Shine

Air-fried scallops are perfect with quick sauces. Try:

• Lemon-butter sauce: Melt 2 tbsp butter, add juice of 1/2 lemon, 1 minced garlic clove, and a splash of white wine. Drizzle over scallops.
• Chimichurri: Blend parsley, cilantro, garlic, red wine vinegar, olive oil, and red pepper flakes. Bright and herby.
• Miso glaze: Whisk 1 tbsp white miso, 1 tsp honey, 1 tsp rice vinegar, and 1/2 tsp soy sauce. Brush on scallops after cooking.

Pairing Ideas for a Complete Meal

Scallops work with almost any side. Try:

• Air-fried asparagus or green beans (cook alongside scallops in the last 3 minutes).
• Cauliflower rice or mashed potatoes (air fry in a parchment-lined basket).
• A crisp salad with arugula, shaved fennel, and citrus vinaigrette.
• Warm baguette slices with garlic butter.

Data Table: Air Frying Times for Different Scallop Sizes

Scallop Type	Size (Count per lb)	First Cook (400°F)	Flip & Second Cook	Total Time	Internal Temp
Sea Scallops (Large)	U10–U20	4 minutes	4–5 minutes	8–9 minutes	120–125°F
Sea Scallops (Medium)	U30–U40	4 minutes	3–4 minutes	7–8 minutes	120–125°F
Bay Scallops (Small)	U60–U90	3 minutes	2–3 minutes	5–6 minutes	115–120°F
Wet-Packed (All Sizes)	Any	4 minutes	Add 1–2 minutes	+1–2 minutes	120–125°F

Note: Wet-packed scallops may release more liquid. Drain excess liquid halfway through cooking if needed. Always check for doneness with a thermometer or touch test.

Troubleshooting and Pro Tips for Consistency

Even with the best recipe, air fryers vary. Here’s how to adapt and get perfect results every time.

Dealing with a Cold Air Fryer

If your model heats slowly, add 1–2 minutes to the first cook. Or, preheat with a metal trivet inside to retain heat.

When Scallops Stick

Non-stick baskets can still have issues. Prevent sticking by:

• Lightly oiling the basket *before* adding scallops (use a paper towel to wipe a thin layer).
• Using parchment paper liners (make sure they’re air fryer-safe and don’t block airflow).
• Flipping gently with silicone-tipped tongs.

Adjusting for Different Air Fryer Models

Convection ovens, basket models, and oven-style air fryers may cook differently. If your scallops brown too fast, reduce temp to 375°F. If they’re pale, increase to 410°F or add 1 minute per side. Keep notes for future batches.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Scallops are best fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 2–3 minutes—this revives the crust. Avoid microwaving, as it makes them rubbery.

One last tip: If you’re cooking for guests, do a test batch first. It takes 10 minutes and ensures you nail the timing and seasoning before the main event.

So, can you cook frozen scallops in an air fryer perfectly every time? With the right prep, timing, and a few simple tricks, the answer is a resounding yes. It’s fast, easy, healthy, and delivers that restaurant-quality sear you crave—no thawing, no stress, no mess. Whether you’re cooking for one or hosting a dinner party, frozen scallops in the air fryer are a kitchen hack worth mastering.

The next time you’re staring at a bag of frozen scallops and wondering if they’re worth the effort, remember: your air fryer is your secret weapon. Give it a try. You might just find that frozen scallops—cooked this way—are the easiest gourmet meal in your weeknight rotation. And who knows? You might never go back to thawing again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cook frozen scallops in an air fryer without thawing them first?

Yes, you can cook frozen scallops in an air fryer directly without thawing. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C), lightly oil the scallops, and cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway, for a perfectly seared texture.

What’s the best way to cook frozen scallops in an air fryer for even results?

For even cooking, pat the frozen scallops dry (if possible), arrange them in a single layer with space between each, and lightly spray with oil. Cook at 390°F (199°C) for 9–11 minutes, flipping once halfway through.

Do I need to adjust air fryer cooking time for frozen scallops vs. fresh?

Yes, frozen scallops typically need 2–3 minutes longer than fresh ones. Start checking at 8 minutes and cook until opaque and slightly golden, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

How do I prevent frozen scallops from sticking to the air fryer basket?

Lightly coat the scallops and the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray or oil. Use parchment paper with holes for airflow if needed—this helps avoid sticking while achieving a crispy exterior.

Can I season frozen scallops before air frying, or should I wait until after?

Season frozen scallops before air frying for maximum flavor. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic powder, or other seasonings, and lightly oil to help the spices adhere during cooking.

What should I do if my air-fried frozen scallops turn out rubbery?

Rubbery scallops are often overcooked. Reduce cooking time by 1–2 minutes and avoid overcrowding the basket. For best results, cook in batches and monitor closely—they’re done when opaque and tender.