These seared scallops are a real treat! With a golden crust and a creamy, spicy Cajun sauce on top, they are bursting with flavor and perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself.
Cooking scallops can feel fancy, but they are super easy! Just a quick sear, and you’re ready to enjoy them with the spicy sauce. Pair them with some rice or veggies for a tasty meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sea Scallops: These are key for a tender bite. If you can’t find sea scallops, look for dry bay scallops, which will work, though they will cook faster. Make sure they are fresh for the best flavor!
Olive Oil: This is great for searing. You can use other oils with high smoke points, such as avocado oil. If you’re looking for a bit of flavor, grapeseed oil also works well.
Cajun Seasoning: This spice mix is the star of the sauce! If you don’t have any on hand, you can make your own with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and thyme. Adjust to taste!
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce rich and velvety. If you want a lighter version, you can substitute with half-and-half or a plant-based cream. Just keep in mind that it might not be as creamy.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish. If you don’t have lemons, a bit of white wine vinegar can substitute in a pinch. Just use less to avoid overpowering the sauce.
How Do I Get the Perfect Sear on Scallops?
Getting a beautiful sear on scallops can be tricky, but it’s all about the technique. Follow these easy steps to achieve that perfect golden crust:
- Start with dry scallops: Pat them thoroughly with paper towels. Moisture will prevent them from searing well.
- Heat your skillet: Make sure your oil is hot. This helps create a nice crust without overcooking the inside.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Leave space between each scallop. If they’re too close, they’ll steam instead of sear.
- Don’t flip too soon: Let them cook undisturbed for 2 minutes on one side until they’re golden. Then flip them to cook for another minute or two on the other side.
With these tips, your scallops should turn out nicely seared and delicious!
Seared Scallops with Creamy Spicy Cajun Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Scallops:
- 12 large sea scallops, patted dry
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Creamy Spicy Cajun Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to spice preference)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or seafood stock
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and roughly 15 minutes of cook time. In total, you’ll be enjoying this gorgeous dish in about 25 minutes! Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Scallops:
Start by patting the scallops dry with paper towels. This helps achieve that perfect sear. Season both sides lightly with salt and black pepper.
2. Sear the Scallops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it’s hot but not smoking. Carefully add the scallops in a single layer, ensuring there’s space between each one. Cook without moving them for about 2 minutes until they develop a lovely golden brown crust.
3. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Gently flip the scallops using tongs and cook for another 1-2 minutes until they are opaque and nicely seared. Remove the scallops from the skillet and place them on a warm plate.
4. Make the Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the chopped shallot and sauté for about 2 minutes until softened. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Add the Spices:
Stir in the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Let it cook for just a moment to release the flavors.
6. Combine the Cream and Broth:
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring constantly. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer and allow it to thicken slightly, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
7. Season and Finish the Sauce:
Stir in the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the spices if you want more heat!
8. Return Scallops to the Pan:
Carefully place the scallops back into the skillet, spoon some sauce over them, and heat through for about 1 minute so they soak up the flavors.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle the dish with fresh parsley as a lovely garnish. Serve immediately, ideally with rice, crusty bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
This dish combines tender, caramelized scallops with a rich, spicy Cajun cream sauce that packs a smooth kick with every bite. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
FAQ for Seared Scallops with Creamy Spicy Cajun Sauce
Can I Use Other Types of Scallops?
Yes! While sea scallops are preferred for their size and flavor, you can use bay scallops as well. Just keep in mind that bay scallops will cook faster, so adjust cooking time accordingly—about 1-2 minutes per side should suffice.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover scallops and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Just reheat it on the stove over low heat before adding freshly seared scallops. This allows you to save time on busy nights!
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This creamy spicy Cajun scallops dish pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce. Steamed vegetables or a fresh salad also complement the rich flavors nicely.