Butter Seared Scallops

Name: Butter Seared Scallops
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound of scallops; 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter; Salt to taste; Black pepper to taste; Lemon wedges for serving

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Butter Seared Scallops because they are incredibly quick to prepare and deliver a restaurant-quality dish right at home. The rich, buttery flavor combined with a perfectly seared crust creates a delightful contrast that is simply irresistible. Plus, using just a few simple ingredients, I can whip up an elegant meal that impresses my guests every time. It’s the perfect dish for special occasions or a cozy dinner for two, and I can’t wait for you to experience it too!

Created by

Jocelyn Parker

Last updated on 2026-01-20T03:16:11.730Z

When I first tried making Butter Seared Scallops, I was amazed at how just a few minutes of cooking could transform these simple shellfish into a gourmet delight. I’ve learned that the key is ensuring your pan is hot enough to give those scallops a perfect golden crust without overcooking them. That immediate sizzle you hear when they hit the pan is music to my ears!

One specific trick I’ve found essential is to pat the scallops dry with a paper towel before searing; this way, they brown beautifully instead of steaming. Adding a splash of lemon juice at the end elevates the dish and brightens the flavors wonderfully. You’ll love this approach as much as I do!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Quick cooking time makes it perfect for weeknight dinners.
The combination of butter and scallops creates a luxurious flavor.
Easily customizable with different herbs and spices to suit your taste.

      

The Art of Searing Scallops

Searing scallops is all about technique. To achieve that perfect golden crust, make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the scallops. If the oil or butter isn't hot enough, your scallops will stick and won't develop that desirable crust. When you place the scallops in the pan, resist the urge to move them around. Allow them to sear for 2-3 minutes undisturbed; this creates a delicious caramelization and enhances the flavor.

Timing is crucial when cooking scallops. They overcook easily and can become rubbery if left on the heat for too long. You can tell when they're done by their color and texture; perfect scallops should be opaque in the center and firm to the touch. Keep an eye on them to avoid under- or overcooking, and remember that they'll continue to cook slightly after being removed from the pan.

Ingredient Insights

Using high-quality scallops can make a world of difference in this dish. Look for U.S. wild-caught scallops as they tend to have a sweeter, more complex flavor compared to farmed varieties. The size of the scallops matters too; larger 'sea scallops' will yield a better sear and texture than smaller 'bay scallops'. If you cannot find scallops, consider using shrimp or fish fillets, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Butter is the star ingredient that brings richness to the dish. It not only adds flavor but also helps achieve that desirable crust on the scallops. For a twist, you can substitute half of the butter with olive oil, which can increase the smoke point and provide a different flavor profile. Additionally, mixing in herbs like thyme or rosemary while melting the butter can infuse it with aromatic notes that elevate the dish.

Ingredients for Butter Seared Scallops

Main Ingredients

1 pound of scallops
4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Lemon wedges for serving

Additional Flavor Enhancements

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Scallops

Start by patting the scallops dry with a paper towel to ensure a nice sear. Season both sides with salt and black pepper.

Heat the Butter

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the butter and allow it to melt and foam, but not burn.

Sear the Scallops

Once the butter is hot, add the scallops in a single layer. Sear for about 2-3 minutes without moving them until they are golden brown.

Flip and Finish

Gently flip the scallops and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat once they are opaque and firm to the touch.

Serve

Plate the scallops and serve with lemon wedges. Enjoy your delicious Butter Seared Scallops!

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For best results, use dry-packed scallops rather than wet scallops, as they sear better and have a firmer texture.

Serving Suggestions

Butter Seared Scallops can be served over a bed of creamy risotto or accompanied by a light salad for a fresh contrast. The brightness from lemon wedges adds not only a pop of color but also balances the richness of the butter. Consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for an added layer of flavor and visual appeal.

For a more substantial meal, pair the scallops with sautéed vegetables such as asparagus or spinach. This adds a nutritious touch and complements the dish nicely. If you want to impress your guests further, serve the scallops with a splash of white wine reduction; just be sure to reduce the wine in the pan after cooking for a luxurious sauce.

Storing and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, store the cooked scallops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. They are best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to reheat, do so gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid making them tough. Add a small amount of butter or a splash of water to keep them moist during the reheating process.

Freezing is not ideal for cooked scallops as they can lose their delicate texture, but if necessary, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe container for up to one month. Thaw them in the fridge overnight, and then reheat gently. When reheating, adding a little fresh butter can help restore some of the original flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to completely thaw them and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

→ How can I tell when scallops are done?

Scallops are done when they are opaque in color and firm to the touch, usually taking about 2-3 minutes on each side.

→ What can I serve with scallops?

They pair wonderfully with a fresh salad, risotto, or a vegetable medley.

→ Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the butter with a high-quality olive oil or vegan butter.