Scallops cooking times
How long to cook scallops: 1–2 min per side pan-fried, 3–4 min under the grill and 1–2 min per side on the barbecue. Every way to cook it is below, with the temperature and how to tell it’s done.
How long to cook scallops
Times are for about 4 king scallops per person as a starter.
| Method | Time | Heat | How |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pan-fry | 1–2 min per side | in a very hot pan | In a little oil, then a knob of butter; don’t move them until they release. |
| Grill | 3–4 min | under a hot grill | In the shell, with butter; no need to turn. |
| Barbecue | 1–2 min per side | over very hot direct heat | On skewers or in the shell. |
Before you start
Pat very dry and season just before cooking.
How to tell it’s done
Golden crust, just opaque at the sides and slightly translucent in the middle.
Questions
How long to pan-fry scallops?
1–2 min per side in a very hot pan. In a little oil, then a knob of butter; don’t move them until they release.
How long to grill scallops?
3–4 min under a hot grill. In the shell, with butter; no need to turn.
How long to barbecue scallops?
1–2 min per side over very hot direct heat. On skewers or in the shell.
Times are a guide for typical home portions: ovens, air fryers, microwaves and the size of what you’re cooking all vary. Check meat, poultry and fish with a thermometer before serving. Safe temperatures follow USDA and UK Food Standards Agency guidance, last checked 11 November 2026.