Air Fryer Costco Frozen Scallops

Air Fryer Costco Frozen Scallops

Cooking Costco frozen scallops in the air fryer is an easy and elegant way to enjoy tender, buttery seafood with a lightly caramelized surface—straight from the freezer. Whether you're using Kirkland Signature wild-caught scallops or other varieties, the air fryer cooks them evenly and quickly with no thawing or complicated prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Golden Edges, Tender Center

The air fryer sears scallops gently, giving you a lightly crisped outside and soft, juicy inside.

No Thawing Required

Go straight from freezer to air fryer—perfect for weeknight seafood dinners or appetizers.

Lean, High-Protein Option

Scallops are low in fat and high in nutrients, making them a great choice for healthy meals.

Works With Large or Small Scallops

Sea or bay scallops from Costco cook beautifully using this simple method.

Ingredients

• 1 bag of Costco frozen scallops (sea or bay, raw and unbreaded)

• Optional:

  • Olive oil spray or melted butter

  • Salt, pepper, garlic powder, or lemon zest for seasoning

  • Lemon wedges or dipping sauces for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Set the air fryer to 400°F (204°C) and preheat for 3–4 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Scallops

Rinse off any ice glaze under cold water and pat scallops dry with paper towels.(Optional) Toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder or paprika.

Step 3: Air Fry to Perfection

Place scallops in a single layer in the air fryer basket or tray.

• Cook at 400°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through

• Smaller bay scallops may be done in 6–7 minutes

• Internal temperature should reach 130°F to 140°F (54°C–60°C) for optimal texture

Step 4: Let Rest & Serve

Allow scallops to rest for 1–2 minutes, then serve with lemon wedges or a drizzle of sauce.

Pro Tips for the Best Results

Dry Thoroughly Before Cooking

Moisture prevents browning—pat scallops dry for a nice golden crust.

Flip Gently at Halfway Point

Use tongs or a spatula to avoid tearing delicate scallops.

Don’t Overcook

Scallops become rubbery when overdone—check early and cook just until opaque.

Finish with Butter or Sauce

Add garlic butter, lemon juice, or a white wine reduction after cooking.

What to Serve With Costco Scallops

Side Dishes

• Garlic Butter Rice or Risotto – Creamy and luxurious

• Steamed Asparagus or Sautéed Spinach – Light and fresh

• Linguine with Olive Oil or Lemon Pasta – Classic and elegant

Sauces & Toppings

• Lemon Garlic Butter or White Wine Sauce – Rich and zesty

• Herb Aioli or Pesto Drizzle – Bold flavor boosters

• Chopped Parsley or Chives – Fresh garnish

Creative Serving Ideas

• Serve Over a Bed of Greens or Grain Bowl

• Toss with Pasta and Parmesan for a Full Meal

• Use as a Fancy Appetizer with Toothpicks and Dipping Sauce

Storage & Reheating Instructions

How to Store Leftovers

Cool completely and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

How to Reheat in the Air Fryer

Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 2–3 minutes—just until warm. Avoid overcooking.

Can You Freeze After Cooking?

Yes—freeze cooked scallops for up to 1 month. Reheat from frozen at 375°F for 4–5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Air Fry Scallops Straight from Frozen?

Yes, but rinse off the ice glaze first and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture.

Do I Need to Use Oil?

A light spray or toss in oil or butter helps with browning and prevents sticking.

How Do I Know When Scallops Are Done?

They should be opaque and slightly springy, with a light golden edge.

Best Air Fryer for Scallops?

Any model works well—just make sure to space them in a single layer for even cooking.

Make Costco frozen scallops in the air fryer for perfectly tender, golden bites in under 10 minutes. No thawing needed. Full instructions, pro tips, and serving ideas included.