Garlic Butter Pan Seared Scallops

Name: Garlic Butter Pan Seared Scallops
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 10 large sea scallops; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Garlic Butter Pan Seared Scallops for a quick but indulgent meal. The rich, buttery flavor combined with the sweetness of the scallops creates an unforgettable dish. I often serve them over a bed of creamy risotto or alongside a fresh salad. It’s a dish that brightens up any occasion, and the best part is that it comes together in less than 15 minutes. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple for special dinners at home!

Created by

Celeste Morgan

Last updated on 2026-01-20T03:43:10.290Z

I’ve experimented with various cooking techniques for scallops, and I’ve found that the simple method of pan-searing really highlights their natural sweetness and texture. The key is to ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the scallops; this ensures that beautiful golden crust forms while keeping the inside tender and juicy.

A tip I’ve learned is to pat the scallops dry with a paper towel before cooking. This little step prevents them from steam cooking in the pan, guaranteeing that perfect sear we all love. Trust me, this slight adjustment can elevate your dish significantly!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich garlic butter flavor that enhances the scallops' sweetness
Quick and easy preparation perfect for weeknight dinners
Impressive enough for entertaining guests or special occasions

      

Selecting the Perfect Scallops

When making Garlic Butter Pan Seared Scallops, the quality of the scallops is essential. Look for large sea scallops with a creamy white appearance and no brown spots. Fresh scallops should also have a mild, briny smell. Avoid frozen scallops if possible, as they often have added preservatives that can affect texture and flavor. If you must use frozen, make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry thoroughly before cooking to ensure a proper sear.

Another tip is to get your scallops from a reputable fishmonger or seafood market to guarantee freshness. When choosing scallops, remember that size can affect cooking time; larger scallops may require an additional minute of cooking per side. For an even more indulgent experience, consider choosing diver-caught scallops, which are usually sweeter and more flavorful than farm-raised varieties.

Mastering the Sear

Achieving a perfect sear on scallops is all about the heat. Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat for about 3 minutes until it's shimmering but not smoking. Using a heavy skillet, like cast iron or stainless steel, helps in retaining even heat and achieving that coveted golden crust. Avoid overcrowding the pan; this allows for better airflow and prevents steaming, which can lead to rubbery scallops. Instead, sear in batches if necessary.

When placing the scallops in the pan, do not move them for the first few minutes. This allows a crust to form. You’ll know they’re ready to flip when they naturally release from the pan without sticking. Perfectly seared scallops should be caramelized on the outside while remaining tender and slightly opaque in the center. For best results, aim for a cooking time of 2-3 minutes per side depending on the size.

Enhancing with Garlic Butter

The key to elevating your scallops lies in the garlic butter. After searing, reducing the heat is crucial—this prevents the garlic from burning and turning bitter. Once the butter is added, let it melt slowly, mixing in the minced garlic. You can also add a splash of white wine or lemon juice at this stage for acidity, which balances the richness beautifully. Allow the garlic to infuse the butter for about 1 minute before spooning it over the scallops.

For those looking for a twist, consider incorporating herbs like thyme or rosemary into the garlic butter. These can complement the scallops’ natural sweetness. You could also experiment with flavored butters, such as those infused with lemon zest or chili flakes, to add an extra dimension of flavor. Lastly, fresh parsley not only adds color but also brightens the dish’s overall taste profile.

Ingredients

For the Scallops

10 large sea scallops
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Scallops

Pat the scallops dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

Heat the Pan

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.

Sear the Scallops

Add the scallops to the pan in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd. Sear for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown, then flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes.

Add Garlic Butter

Reduce heat to low and add the butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Spoon the melted butter over the scallops for about 1 minute.

Serve

Remove scallops from the pan and place them on a serving plate. Drizzle with the garlic butter from the pan and garnish with fresh parsley.

Pro Tips

Make sure the scallops are room temperature before cooking to ensure even cooking. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Garlic Butter Pan Seared Scallops can be elegantly served on a variety of bases. Creamy risotto complements the rich scallops wonderfully, while a simple arugula salad adds a fresh peppery note. You could also serve them over garlic mashed potatoes or with crusty bread to soak up the delectable garlic butter sauce.

For a more casual approach, consider serving the scallops in tacos with a cilantro-lime slaw or accompanying them with roasted seasonal vegetables for a colorful plate. A drizzle of balsamic reduction can also add a touch of sweetness that pairs nicely with the buttery flavor.

Making Ahead and Storage

Scallops are best when cooked fresh; however, you can prepare components in advance. Pre-chop your garlic, measure out your butter, and have your seasonings ready. If you want to save time, consider making a compound garlic butter a day ahead by mixing softened butter with minced garlic and any herbs you prefer. This allows the flavors to meld and intensify.

If you have leftovers, store any uneaten scallops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat with a little butter to prevent drying out. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make scallops rubbery and unappetizing.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your scallops turn out tough, you may have overcooked them or started with scallops that were too wet. Always ensure they are patted dry before cooking and keep a close eye on cooking times. Scallops should be just firm to the touch and should have a glossy finish when perfectly cooked.

Should you find your garlic burnt in the process, that’s a sign the heat was too high when you added it. Always reduce the temperature after searing the scallops. Aim for low heat when adding any delicate ingredients, like garlic, to achieve that rich flavor without bitterness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen scallops?

Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely and dry them well before cooking.

→ What can I serve with these scallops?

They pair perfectly with risotto, pasta, or a fresh green salad.

→ How can I tell if scallops are fully cooked?

They should be opaque and firm to the touch but still slightly tender in the center.

→ Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative.