Golden seared scallops meet a luxuriously smooth Cajun cream sauce in this elegant seafood dish. With bold Southern-inspired flavors and a touch of heat, this recipe transforms a simple scallop dinner into a restaurant-worthy experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish offers the perfect balance of refinement and bold flavor. The scallops are seared to golden perfection, locking in their natural sweetness, while the Cajun cream sauce adds a spicy, creamy richness. It’s a gourmet meal that’s quick enough for weeknights yet special enough for entertaining. Best of all, it’s low in carbs and high in flavor.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Large sea scallops, packed dry
Olive oil
Unsalted butter
Garlic cloves, minced
Cajun seasoning
Cayenne pepper
Smoked paprika
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Heavy cream
Parmesan cheese, grated
Lemon juice
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

directions

Pat scallops dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add scallops and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and caramelized. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add butter. Sauté the minced garlic for 30 seconds.
Stir in Cajun seasoning, cayenne, and paprika. Mix well, then pour in the heavy cream.
Simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
Add Parmesan and lemon juice, stirring constantly for another minute.
Return scallops to the skillet and spoon sauce over them. Let them heat through for 1-2 minutes.
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Calories: Approximately 410 kcal per serving

Variations

Mild Version: Reduce or omit the cayenne pepper for less heat.
Extra Spicy: Add a splash of hot sauce or more cayenne to intensify the spice.
Cream Alternative: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh thyme or basil for a different aromatic profile.
Serve Over: Try serving over pasta, risotto, or a bed of sautéed spinach.

storage/reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving, as scallops can become rubbery when overcooked.

FAQs

What makes scallops rubbery?

Overcooking scallops can cause them to turn rubbery. Ensure you sear them for just 2–3 minutes per side until golden.

Can I use frozen scallops?

Yes, but thaw them completely and pat them dry thoroughly to avoid excess moisture during searing.

How do I know when scallops are done?

Scallops are done when they are opaque in the center and have a golden-brown crust on the outside.

Is this dish spicy?

It has a moderate kick from the cayenne and Cajun seasoning, but you can adjust the heat level to your taste.

What sides go well with this dish?

Great options include garlic mashed potatoes, steamed asparagus, or a fresh green salad.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

Milk can be used but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. A better substitute would be half-and-half.

What wine pairs well with this recipe?

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the creamy, spicy sauce beautifully.

How do I get a good sear on scallops?

Ensure scallops are dry and the skillet is hot before placing them in. Do not overcrowd the pan.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but the sauce can be prepared in advance and reheated when ready to serve.

Are scallops healthy?

Yes, scallops are a good source of lean protein and low in fat, making them a nutritious seafood choice.

Conclusion

Seared Scallops with Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce is a dish that brings luxury to your dinner table without the need for complicated steps. With its bold seasoning, creamy texture, and succulent scallops, it’s an impressive and satisfying meal that is sure to impress. Perfect for special occasions or elevating a weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with ease.