Air Fryer Breaded Sea Scallops Recipe

Sea scallops: These are the star of the dish, providing a sweet and delicate flavor.

Panko breadcrumbs: Preferred for their light and airy texture, which creates a crispy coating.

Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory and nutty flavor to the breading.

Olive oil: Helps the breadcrumbs adhere to the scallops and adds a rich flavor.

Garlic powder: Provides a subtle garlic flavor without overpowering the dish.

Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients.

Black pepper: Adds a hint of spice and depth to the breading.

To ensure your scallops are perfectly cooked and not rubbery, make sure to pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels before brushing with olive oil. This helps the breadcrumb mixture adhere better and promotes even browning in the air fryer. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket; cooking in a single layer allows hot air to circulate around each scallop, resulting in a crispier texture.

• sea scallops - Substitute with large shrimp: Large shrimp have a similar texture and can be breaded and cooked in the same manner as sea scallops.

• panko breadcrumbs - Substitute with crushed cornflakes: Crushed cornflakes provide a similar crunch and can be used as a gluten-free alternative.

• grated parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino romano: Pecorino romano has a similar salty and nutty flavor, making it a good alternative to parmesan.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it a suitable substitute for olive oil in air frying.

• garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder provides a different but complementary flavor that can enhance the dish similarly to garlic powder.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a similar level of saltiness along with a depth of umami flavor.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a similar heat and can be used to maintain the peppery flavor without altering the appearance of the dish.

• Allow the scallops to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the breadcrumb coating soggy.
• Place the cooled scallops in an airtight container. If stacking, use parchment paper between layers to maintain the crispiness.
• Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freezing is recommended.
• To freeze, arrange the scallops in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours.
• Transfer the frozen scallops to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date for reference.
• When ready to reheat, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the frozen scallops in the basket and air fry for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
• Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the leftover breaded sea scallops in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
  3. Air fry for 3-5 minutes, or until they are heated through and crispy again.
  4. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Place the scallops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  3. Cover the scallops loosely with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out.
  4. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until they are heated through.
  5. Remove the foil for the last 2 minutes of baking to restore some of the crispiness.
  6. Serve immediately.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the skillet.
  3. Place the scallops in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are heated through and the coating is crispy.
  4. Serve immediately with a squeeze of lemon juice.

• Microwave Method (Least Recommended):

  1. Place the scallops on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover them with a damp paper towel to prevent them from drying out.
  3. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are not overcooked.
  4. Serve immediately, though note that the coating may not be as crispy.

• Air fryer: Used to cook the scallops, providing a crispy texture without deep frying.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

• Paper towels: Used to pat the scallops dry, ensuring they are free of excess moisture.

• Brush: Used to coat the scallops with olive oil evenly.

• Tongs: Used to turn the scallops halfway through the cooking process in the air fryer.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure out the breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and olive oil accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

• Serving plate: Used to serve the cooked scallops immediately after air frying.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure and prepare all ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.

Use pre-grated cheese: Save time by using pre-grated parmesan cheese instead of grating it yourself.

Dry scallops thoroughly: Ensure scallops are completely dry to help the breadcrumb mixture adhere better and cook evenly.

Single layer cooking: Arrange scallops in a single layer in the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking.

Turn halfway: Remember to turn the scallops halfway through the air frying process for uniform browning.