Sheet Pan Crispy Scallop Tacos with High-Protein Sriracha-Lime Crema and Spring Mango Slaw
These crispy scallop tacos bring together everything you want in a vibrant, flavor-packed meal. The scallops are coated in a light, crunchy crust and baked on a sheet pan for an easier, healthier take on fried seafood. They’re paired with a creamy, high-protein sriracha-lime crema that adds heat and tang, plus a fresh mango slaw that balances everything with sweetness and crunch. It’s the perfect combination of textures and bold flavors, ideal for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
Total Time: 30–35 minutes
Servings: 4 (8–10 tacos)
Ingredients
For the Crispy Scallops
400g large sea scallops (side muscle removed)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
½ cup flour
1 egg, beaten
¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tbsp olive oil (or spray)
For the Sriracha-Lime Crema
½ cup plain Greek yogurt
1–2 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
Juice and zest of 1 lime
1 tsp honey
1 small garlic clove, minced
Salt, to taste
For the Spring Mango Slaw
1 cup shredded green cabbage
1 cup shredded purple cabbage
1 ripe mango, julienned
¼ cup carrots, shredded
2 tbsp lime juice
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tsp honey
Pinch of salt
For Assembly
8–10 small tortillas (corn or flour)
Fresh cilantro, chopped
Lime wedges
Instructions
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a sheet pan with parchment paper.
Pat scallops dry thoroughly to ensure proper coating and crispiness.
Season scallops with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Prepare dredging station: flour, beaten egg, and panko in separate bowls.
Coat scallops by dipping into flour, egg, then breadcrumbs, pressing gently.
Arrange on sheet pan and drizzle lightly with olive oil.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, flipping once, until golden and crisp.
Make the slaw by mixing cabbage, mango, carrots, lime juice, vinegar, honey, and salt. Let sit.
Prepare crema by whisking yogurt, sriracha, lime juice/zest, honey, garlic, and salt until smooth.
Assemble tacos: warm tortillas, add scallops, top with slaw, drizzle crema, garnish with cilantro and lime.
Tips for Best Results
Dry scallops well to avoid sogginess.
Use large scallops for better texture.
Don’t overcrowd the pan for even crisping.
Flip gently halfway through baking.
Adjust sriracha to control spice level.
Use ripe but firm mango for best slaw texture.
Chill slaw briefly before serving for freshness.
Warm tortillas before assembling to prevent cracking.
Add extra lime juice just before serving for brightness.
Serve immediately for maximum crispiness.
Variations
Substitute scallops with shrimp or fish.
Make it gluten-free using GF breadcrumbs.
Add avocado slices for creaminess.
Use pineapple instead of mango.
Add jalapeños for extra heat.
Swap yogurt with sour cream or dairy-free alternative.
Turn into lettuce wraps for a low-carb version.
Add pickled onions for tang.
Use chipotle sauce instead of sriracha.
Top with crumbled feta or cotija cheese.
Q&A
Can I use frozen scallops?
Yes, thaw completely and pat dry.
Why are my scallops watery?
They weren’t dried properly before cooking.
Can I air fry instead?
Yes, cook at 180°C for 8–10 minutes.
Are scallops healthy?
Yes, they are lean and high in protein.
Can I make crema ahead?
Yes, store up to 2 days refrigerated.
6. What tortillas work best?
Corn for authenticity, flour for softness.
Can I skip breadcrumbs?
Yes, but texture will be less crispy.
What sides pair well?
Rice, grilled veggies, or corn salad.
Can kids eat this?
Yes, reduce or skip sriracha for mild flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep components separate and refrigerate up to 2 days.
Nutrition (Approx. per 2 tacos)
Calories: 350–400
Protein: 25–28g
Carbohydrates: 28–32g
Fat: 12–16g
Fiber: 3–5g
Conclusion
These sheet pan crispy scallop tacos are a perfect mix of convenience and bold flavor. The crunchy scallops, spicy-creamy sauce, and fresh mango slaw come together in a way that feels both indulgent and balanced. Easy to prepare and visually vibrant, they’re a great way to elevate taco night with minimal effort and maximum flavor.