Garlic Butter Seared Scallops

Highlighted under: Multinational Kitchen Ideas

I absolutely love making Garlic Butter Seared Scallops for a special dinner. There's something magical about the way scallops transform when they hit a hot pan – they develop an irresistible golden crust while remaining tender inside. The combination of garlic and butter creates a heavenly sauce that enhances the natural sweetness of the scallops. It takes just a few minutes to prepare, yet the result is impressive enough to serve at a dinner party. This dish is not only delicious but also makes me feel like a gourmet chef at home.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-22T12:30:30.124Z

When I first tried searing scallops, I was amazed by how quickly they cook and how incredibly flavorful they become with the right seasoning. I experimented with various flavors, and garlic butter quickly became my favorite method. The garlic infuses the butter as it melts, creating a luxurious sauce that clings to each scallop, highlighting their natural sweetness. Pairing them with a sprinkle of fresh herbs adds a lovely finish.

One tip I can share is to ensure the pan is hot before adding the scallops. This helps achieve that beautiful sear and prevents them from sticking. I also recommend not overcrowding the pan; this way, every scallop gets the attention it deserves for the ultimate flavor experience.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy to make for any special occasion
The garlic butter sauce is simply irresistible
Scallops cook in minutes for a gourmet meal in no time

Mastering the Searing Technique

Searing scallops is an art that relies heavily on timing and temperature. Ensure your skillet is hot enough before the scallops touch the surface; this is essential for achieving that beautiful golden crust. A medium-high heat setting usually works perfectly. If the scallops are placed too soon, they may release moisture and steam instead of sear, leading to a rubbery texture. You can test the heat by sprinkling a few drops of water in the pan; they should dance and evaporate immediately.

When placing the scallops in the skillet, avoid overcrowding. Crowding the pan lowers the temperature, preventing proper browning. This can result if you are trying to cook too many scallops at once. If necessary, sear them in batches and keep the first batch warm in a low oven while you finish the rest. Each scallop should have enough space to form that coveted crust, which enhances both the flavor and the visual appeal of the dish.

Perfecting the Garlic Butter Sauce

The garlic butter sauce is what elevates this dish and is incredibly easy to master. Adding the minced garlic in the final minute of cooking ensures it becomes fragrant without burning. Burnt garlic can turn bitter and ruin the dish’s flavor. Be sure to stir the garlic gently, letting it infuse the butter without overcooking. Look for it to soften and turn a light golden color; this signifies it’s ready to be combined with the scallops.

For a twist on the classic flavor, try adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter. The acidity from the lemon can brighten the dish, while the heat from the pepper flakes adds a layer of warmth. This combination beautifully complements the natural sweetness of the scallops. Feel free to experiment with herbs like thyme or dill for added complexity in flavor.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Garlic Butter Seared Scallops pair well with a variety of sides that balance their rich flavor. A simple green salad drizzled with a citrus vinaigrette or roasted asparagus can add freshness to the meal. Creamy risotto or garlic mashed potatoes also make excellent accompaniments, absorbing the delicious garlic butter sauce while providing a comforting element to the plate.

Don’t hesitate to serve these scallops with crusty bread. This allows everyone to savor the remaining garlic butter sauce at the bottom of the plate. For a more elegant presentation, serve on a bed of sautéed spinach or over cauliflower puree, which provides a beautiful contrast in both color and texture, transforming your dinner experience into something exceptional.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients

1 pound sea scallops
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create perfectly seared scallops:

Prepare the Scallops

Pat the scallops dry with a paper towel and season both sides with salt and pepper.

Heat the Butter

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat until it foams.

Sear the Scallops

Add the scallops to the skillet in a single layer, being careful not to crowd the pan. Sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Add Garlic

In the last minute of cooking, add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook until fragrant but not burnt.

Serve

Remove from heat, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve immediately with the garlic butter drizzled over the top.

Enjoy your delicious Garlic Butter Seared Scallops!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a splash of lemon juice just before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

While sea scallops are the star ingredient here, bay scallops can be used as a substitute if you prefer a milder flavor. They are smaller and cook even faster—around 1-2 minutes per side—so adjust your cooking time accordingly. This makes them ideal for quick weeknight meals or when you're in a rush to impress guests.

If you're looking for a dairy-free option, consider substituting the butter with a high-quality plant-based butter or olive oil. Keep in mind that this will change the richness of the dish, so consider adding a splash of coconut milk or a non-dairy cream alternative to maintain a creamy texture.

Storing and Reheating

Scallops are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a teaspoon of water or broth to prevent drying out. Avoid microwaving as it can make them rubbery; a slow, gentle heat is key to retaining their tenderness.

You can also prepare the garlic butter sauce ahead of time, storing it in a sealed container in the fridge for up to a week. Just remember that scallops are best cooked shortly before serving, so make the sauce ahead and then sear your scallops fresh for an optimal dining experience.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable depending on your needs. If you’re cooking for a crowd, simply multiply the ingredients accordingly, keeping in mind that searing may need to be done in batches to maintain proper temperature. The great news is that the ratio of garlic and butter can remain the same, ensuring that every serving has that delicious flavor balance.

When scaling up, be cautious about cooking times—larger batches can take slightly longer to achieve that perfect sear. Monitor the scallops closely and use a digital thermometer if necessary; ideally, they should reach an internal temperature of 130°F for best results. Remember, all good things take time, so don't rush the process, especially when aiming for a beautiful golden crust.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen scallops?

Yes, but be sure to thaw them thoroughly and pat them dry before cooking for best results.

→ What should I serve with scallops?

These scallops pair beautifully with pasta, rice, or a crisp salad.

→ How do I know when scallops are cooked?

Scallops should be opaque and have a golden crust, but still be slightly tender to the touch.

→ Can I substitute olive oil for butter?

Yes, olive oil can be used, but it won't provide the same rich flavor that butter does.