Scallops BBQ Cook Time
230°C (450°F) High Heat
1–2 min per side • Internal: 52–57°C (125–135°F)
Doneness Guide
| Level | Internal Temp | Cook Time | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Medium-Rare (recommended) | 52°C (125°F) | 1–1.5 min per side | Golden crust, slightly translucent centre. Buttery and tender. |
| Medium | 57°C (135°F) | 2 min per side | Opaque throughout, still tender. |
How to BBQ Scallops
1
Pat scallops completely dry with paper towel. Moisture is the enemy of a good sear.
2
Season simply — olive oil, salt, and pepper. The scallop flavour should shine.
3
Preheat BBQ flatplate or grill to high heat — 230°C (450°F).
4
Place scallops flat-side down. Do not move them for 1–2 minutes until a golden crust forms.
5
Flip once. Cook for another 1–2 minutes. The centre should still be slightly translucent.
6
Serve immediately with a squeeze of lemon.
Pro Tips
- The number one tip: dry your scallops thoroughly. Wet scallops steam instead of searing.
- Use the BBQ flatplate for scallops — the flat surface gives better contact than grill grates.
- Don’t crowd them. Leave space between each scallop for heat circulation.
- They’re done when the sides are opaque but the very centre is still slightly translucent.
- A small knob of butter on the flatplate just before cooking adds incredible richness.
Resting Time
Rest for 1–2 minutes after removing from the BBQ. This allows juices to redistribute for a juicier result.
External Resources
- SBS Food — Multicultural Australian BBQ and cooking content
- Kidspot — Family-friendly BBQ recipes and food safety tips
- NSW Health — Food Safety — NSW Government safe cooking guidelines
- VIC Health — Food Safety — Victoria Government food safety information
Frequently Asked Questions
How long to BBQ scallops?
1–2 minutes per side over high heat (230°C/450°F). They cook incredibly fast.
How do you stop scallops sticking to the BBQ?
Ensure scallops are bone dry, oil them (not the grill), and preheat the BBQ thoroughly. Use a flatplate for best results.
Should scallops be translucent in the middle?
Slightly, yes. A small translucent centre means they’re medium-rare — the ideal doneness for scallops.
What type of scallops are best for BBQ?
Large, dry-packed sea scallops. Avoid "wet-packed" scallops as they’ve been treated with preservatives that prevent searing.