Air Fryer Scallops
Scallops in the air fryer are so meaty and delicious, and take just minutes to cook which makes this a perfect fast weeknight dish. Making them in the air fryer, the scallops come out perfectly juicy and tender on the inside, with crisp golden bacon on the outside in under 10 minutes. If your not a scallop fan, you may also like these Bacon Wrapped Chicken Bites.
How To Cook Scallops in the Air Fryer
Here’s the step-by-step instructions to make these air fryer scallops with bacon. See exact measurements in the recipe card below. I have been craving bacon wrapped scallops forever and finally decided to test them out in the air fryer. Playing around with them in my kitchen, I found partially cooking the bacon before wrapping the scallops gives you the best results for perfectly cooked scallops and crisp, bacon.
Large sea scallops: cleaned and pat dry with paper towels. Bay scallops are too small. Center cut bacon: it’s leaner than regular bacon Toothpicks: to keep the bacon in place Olive oil spray: or avocado oil, to avoid sticking to the basket Freshly ground black pepper, to taste (I didn’t add salt since the bacon is salty)
Variations:
Serve with fresh lemon juice or fresh herbs Skip the bacon and season the scallops with salt or Cajun seasoning. Drizzle with a lemon butter sauce by melting butter and squeezing fresh lemon or lemon zest in it. Add garlic to make it a garlic butter sauce.
Helpful Tips for Air Fryer Scallops
For perfectly cooked scallops, be sure to pat the scallops dry. Place them between paper towels to get any moisture out. One half slice of bacon fit perfectly around each scallop, you’ll need a toothpick to secure it. Always turn your food halfway when air frying. The heating element is at the top, so turning it will cook food evenly on both sides.
What To Serve With Bacon Wrapped Scallops
Scallops are great served over salad like baby mixed greens or arugula salad. Serve them over Cauliflower Puree Sauteed Spinach with Garlic and Oil would also make a great side dish. Broccoli and Orzo is an also easy side dish my whole family loves.
More Scallop Recipes:
Blackened Salmon with Mango Salsa Scallop Tostadas Grilled Scallop Kebabs Seared Scallops with Parmesan Risotto Baked Scallops
Photo credit: Jess Larson