Get ready for a tasty treat with these seared scallops! They are golden and buttery on the outside, tender on the inside, and smothered in a creamy spicy Cajun sauce that gives them a delightful kick.
I love making this dish for a special dinner. It’s quick to whip up, and let’s be honest, the sauce is so good, you’ll want to grab a spoon and savor every last drop! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Scallops: Large sea scallops are best for this recipe. If you can’t find them, you could use smaller scallops, but be mindful that they’ll require less cooking time.
Shallots: These add a mild sweetness to the sauce. If they’re unavailable, yellow onions can work in a pinch, but the flavor will be a bit stronger.
Cajun Seasoning: This blend gives the dish its kick! If you’re looking for a milder flavor, reduce the amount or use a dash of paprika instead. Homemade Cajun mix can also be made easily with basic spices.
Heavy Cream: Makes the sauce rich and creamy. If you want a lighter version, half-and-half could be used, but the sauce may be less thick. For a dairy-free option, coconut cream works too, though it will change the flavor slightly.
How Do I Get a Perfect Sear on Scallops?
Getting that delicious golden crust on scallops is crucial! Here’s how to do it:
- First, make sure the scallops are very dry. This helps them sear instead of steam.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat until it’s hot but not smoking.
- Add oil; it should shimmer right away. Place scallops in the pan without crowding them.
- Let them cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes on each side. Don’t move them around; allow them to form a crust.
Perfectly seared scallops should be golden brown on the outside and translucent in the center. Enjoy your cooking! 🥘
Seared Scallops With Creamy Spicy Cajun Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb large sea scallops (about 12), patted dry
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take about 20-25 minutes to prepare, including searing the scallops and making the creamy Cajun sauce. It’s a quick yet impressive meal 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 to get that beautiful golden sear! Once they’re dry, season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
2. Sear the Scallops:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering. Carefully place the scallops in the pan, making sure not to crowd them. Let them sear undisturbed for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and are just cooked through. When done, remove the scallops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Make the Cajun Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the butter, chopped shallot, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2 minutes until the shallots are soft and fragrant. Next, stir in the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for an additional 30 seconds to let the spices bloom.
4. Add Cream and Lemon:
Pour in the heavy cream and lemon juice, stirring to combine everything well. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.
5. Combine Scallops and Sauce:
Return the seared scallops back to the skillet and spoon the creamy sauce over them. Let them warm in the sauce for about 1 minute to meld the flavors together.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately. This dish pairs beautifully with rice, crusty bread, or sautéed vegetables for a complete meal!
Can I Use Frozen Scallops for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen scallops, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. A good way to thaw them is by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or running them under cold water in a sealed bag for quicker results. Pat them dry before searing!
What If I Don’t Have Cajun Seasoning?
No worries! You can make your own Cajun seasoning using common spices. Mix equal parts of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, and a pinch of cayenne pepper or black pepper for some heat. Adjust to your taste!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. Note that the scallops may lose some texture upon reheating.
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This creamy spicy Cajun sauce 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 green salad can also complement the dish nicely!
