Name: Seared Scallops with Butter
Prep time: 6 min
Cook time: 6 min
Total time: 12 min
Ingredients: 12 pieces scallops (Fresh or thawed); 4 tbsp butter (Unsalted)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Oh, let me tell you about the joy of cooking scallops! There’s something utterly magical about those little nuggets of the sea. When I whip up Seared Scallops with Butter, it feels like I’m treating myself to a restaurant-quality meal right in my own kitchen. And the best part? It’s so quick and easy! You can have this delicious dish ready in just 12 minutes. Yes, you heard me right! Imagine the aroma of butter sizzling in the skillet as those scallops turn a beautiful golden brown. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner or an elegant dish for a special occasion. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be dreaming about scallops for days! So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Seared Scallops with Butter (6 min) - detail 1

Ingredients for Seared Scallops with Butter

To make the Seared Scallops with Butter, you’ll need just a couple of simple ingredients that pack a flavor punch. First up are 12 scallops, which can be either fresh or thawed if you’re using frozen ones. I always recommend looking for the best quality you can find – they should be plump and slightly translucent. Then, you’ll need 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Using unsalted butter lets you control the seasoning, and boy, does it create a rich, dreamy sauce when it melts! If you want to elevate the dish even further, feel free to add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Fresh herbs or garlic can also be great additions, but for the base recipe, these two ingredients shine on their own. So, gather these essentials, and let’s get ready to create something spectacular!

How to Prepare Seared Scallops with Butter

Now, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of preparing these mouthwatering scallops. Trust me, once you follow these steps, you’ll feel like a culinary superstar! It’s all about timing and technique, but don’t worry—I’m here to guide you through each step.

Step 1: Heat the Skillet

First things first, grab your trusty skillet! You’ll want to heat it over medium-high heat. This is super important because we want that skillet hot enough to give the scallops a beautiful sear without overcooking them. It usually takes about 2-3 minutes. You can test if it’s ready by flicking a little water onto the surface; if it dances and evaporates, you’re set to go!

Step 2: Add and Melt Butter

Once your skillet is hot, it’s time to add in the unsalted butter. Wow, just the sound of it sizzling makes my heart sing! Let it melt completely, swirling it around the skillet to ensure it coats the bottom evenly. This butter is not just a cooking medium; it enhances the flavor of the scallops and creates a luscious sauce. Make sure to keep an eye on it; you don’t want it to brown too much, just a lovely golden hue.

Step 3: Sear Scallops

Now, here comes the exciting part—placing the scallops in the skillet! Gently lay them down in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re ready to flip when they easily release from the pan and have that gorgeous golden crust. A quick tip: don’t fuss with them too much. Let them do their thing! After flipping, sear the other side until they’re opaque and firm to the touch. If you’re unsure, a perfectly cooked scallop will bounce back when pressed gently.

Step 4: Serve Immediately

Once they’re perfectly seared, it’s crucial to serve them right away! Scallops are best enjoyed hot and fresh from the skillet. Plate them up and perhaps drizzle a bit of that heavenly melted butter over the top. For a touch of flair, you can garnish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon. You’ll be amazed at how simple yet elegant this dish looks and tastes. Enjoy every bite of your buttery, seared scallops—you’ve earned it!

Nutritional Information for Seared Scallops with Butter

Now, let’s talk numbers! This Seared Scallops with Butter dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrition. For a serving of two scallops, you’ll be looking at approximately 250 calories. The breakdown is as follows: 24 grams of protein to keep you feeling satisfied, 18 grams of fat (of which 10 grams are saturated), and the best part? 0 grams of carbohydrates! Plus, you’ll get 60 milligrams of cholesterol and a nice dose of potassium at 400 milligrams. Keep in mind that these values are estimates, but they highlight how these scallops can fit beautifully into a balanced meal while being oh-so-tasty!

Tips for Success

To achieve the perfect seared scallops every time, follow these essential tips. First, make sure your scallops are dry. Pat them with paper towels before cooking; this helps achieve that beautiful golden crust. If they’re wet, they’ll steam instead of sear, and nobody wants that!

Next, don’t overcrowd your skillet. Cook in batches if you need to; giving each scallop enough space allows hot air to circulate and provides that lovely sear we’re after. Remember, timing is everything—resist the urge to flip them too soon! Wait until they’re nicely caramelized on one side before turning.

Lastly, keep an eye on the heat. If the butter starts to brown too quickly, lower the temperature slightly. Perfectly cooked scallops should be golden on the outside and tender on the inside. Follow these tips, and you’ll impress everyone at the dinner table with your culinary skills!

Variations of Seared Scallops with Butter

Once you’ve mastered the basic Seared Scallops with Butter, the possibilities for variations are endless! One of my favorite ways to enhance the dish is by adding fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to the butter while it melts. This infuses the scallops with a delightful aroma and elevates the flavor profile beautifully.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try a garlic butter version by adding minced garlic to the skillet right after the butter melts. The garlic adds a wonderful depth that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the scallops. For those who love a little kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes can spice things up!

You can also experiment with a lemon butter sauce. Just squeeze some fresh lemon juice into the melted butter before adding the scallops. This tangy twist brightens the dish and adds a refreshing zing. Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your own signature scallops—each variation is sure to impress!

Equipment Needed for Seared Scallops with Butter

To whip up your Seared Scallops with Butter, you’ll need just a couple of essential pieces of equipment. First, grab a quality skillet—a non-stick or stainless-steel one works great! It needs to be sturdy enough to handle high heat for that perfect sear. I always reach for my heavy-bottomed skillet, which distributes heat evenly and helps avoid hot spots.

Next, you’ll want a good spatula to flip those scallops with care. A thin, flexible spatula is ideal, allowing you to slide under the scallops without breaking them apart. With these two tools in hand, you’re all set to create a restaurant-worthy dish right at home!

FAQ About Seared Scallops with Butter

What type of scallops should I use?

When it comes to searing scallops, I recommend using dry sea scallops if you can find them. These scallops haven’t been treated with preservatives, so they hold up beautifully when cooked, giving you that perfect golden crust. Look for ones that are plump and slightly translucent, which indicates freshness. If dry scallops aren’t available, make sure to thoroughly rinse any wet scallops to remove excess moisture before cooking.

Can I add additional flavors?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with flavors. I love adding minced garlic to the butter for an aromatic twist. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley are fantastic choices too; just toss them in while the butter melts. If you enjoy a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the dish. The beauty of scallops is that they complement various flavors beautifully, so don’t hesitate to experiment!

How do I know when scallops are done?

Knowing when your scallops are done is key! They should be opaque and firm to the touch, with a lovely golden crust on each side. If they easily release from the skillet and bounce back when pressed gently, you’ve nailed it! Typically, searing for about 2-3 minutes on each side will do the trick. Just remember, overcooking can make them tough, so keep an eye on them!

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While scallops are best enjoyed fresh, you can do some prep ahead of time! You can pat the scallops dry and even season them with salt and pepper before cooking, but I recommend waiting to actually cook them until right before you’re ready to serve. This ensures they remain tender and delicious. If you do have leftovers, they can be stored in the fridge for a day, but I can’t guarantee they’ll be as delightful as when they’re freshly cooked!

What should I serve with scallops?

Seared scallops pair beautifully with a variety of side dishes! I love serving them with a light, refreshing arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette. Creamy mashed potatoes or a simple risotto also make a wonderful base to soak up that buttery goodness. If you’re looking to add some veggies, sautéed asparagus or roasted Brussels sprouts are fantastic choices. You really can’t go wrong with these scallops—whatever you choose to serve alongside them will complement their richness perfectly!

For more delicious recipes, check out our Pinterest page!