Irresistible Seared Scallops with Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce

The aroma of sizzling seared scallops with spicy Cajun cream sauce wafts through the kitchen, instantly transporting you to a bustling New Orleans bistro. With each bite, you experience a delightful dance of flavors: buttery scallops meet a creamy, spicy sauce that brings just the right amount of heat. Creamy carbonara dish Crispy Cajun shrimp recipe It’s the kind of dish that makes your taste buds stand up and cheer.

I remember the first time I made seared scallops with spicy Cajun cream sauce for my friends. Their eyes lit up as they took their first bites, and the compliments flew faster than I could keep track. Spicy fish taco pairing Perfect for date nights or special occasions, this dish promises an unforgettable culinary experience that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

I still chuckle when I think about how my cousin almost knocked over her drink in excitement after tasting this dish for the first time.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Fresh Scallops: Look for plump, dry scallops without any added preservatives; they brown beautifully.
• Heavy Cream: Choose high-quality heavy cream for a rich and velvety sauce that elevates the dish.
• Cajun Seasoning: Use your favorite blend or make your own to control the spice level.
• Butter: Opt for unsalted butter to better balance the flavors in the creamy sauce.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves add an aromatic depth that’s hard to resist.
• Green Onions: Chopped green onions provide a fresh finishing touch and vibrant color.
• Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon juice brightens up the flavors beautifully.

For the Sauce:

• Cayenne Pepper: Use sparingly if you’re sensitive to spice; it packs quite a punch!
• Chicken Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth adds depth without overwhelming saltiness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prep Your Scallops: Start by patting your fresh scallops dry with paper towels. This helps them achieve that beautiful sear we all crave.

Sear Those Bad Boys!: Heat butter in a pan over medium-high heat until it bubbles invitingly. Add scallops carefully and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Create Your Spicy Sauce: Remove scallops from the pan and set aside. In the same pan, sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds; be careful not to burn it!

Add Creamy Goodness!: Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth while stirring vigorously to combine all those delicious browned bits left in the pan.

Spice It Up!: Stir in your Cajun seasoning and cayenne pepper carefully—taste as you go! Adjust seasoning based on your heat preference.

Toss It All Together!: Return scallops to the pan and drizzle with lemon juice. Lemon garlic butter cod Cook briefly until everything is warmed through—about 1-2 minutes—and garnish with chopped green onions. For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Butter Green Beans recipe.

Now you’re ready to plate those gorgeous seared scallops with spicy Cajun cream sauce! Enjoy every bite while relishing in how effortlessly impressive this dish turned out. For more inspiration, check out this Orange Custard Squares recipe.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the scallops first to achieve that golden crust, then prepare the cream sauce while they rest. This ensures optimal flavor and texture without overcooking.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in different spices like smoked paprika or add fresh herbs like parsley. A splash of lemon juice can enhance the flavors even more.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently on low heat to avoid rubbery scallops.

Sharing my first experience making seared scallops was unforgettable; my friends couldn’t stop raving about them, and I felt like a culinary superstar!

FAQ

Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?

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

What should I serve with seared scallops?

Pair with garlic mashed potatoes or a fresh garden salad for balance.

How can I make the sauce less spicy?

Reduce the cayenne pepper or substitute with mild paprika for a gentler flavor.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

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Seared Scallops with Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

The delightful combination of seared scallops and spicy Cajun cream sauce will transport your taste buds straight to New Orleans. This easy-to-make dish features buttery, golden-brown scallops enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce with just the right amount of heat. Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a special evening at home, this recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that guarantees second helpings and plenty of compliments.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb fresh scallops
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chicken broth (low-sodium)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Pat scallops dry with paper towels.
2. Heat the butter in a pan over medium-high heat until bubbly. Sear scallops for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from pan.
3. In the same pan, sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
4. Add heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to incorporate browned bits.
5. Stir in Cajun seasoning and cayenne pepper, adjusting to taste.
6. Return scallops to the pan and drizzle with lemon juice. Heat through for 1-2 minutes, then garnish with green onions.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Searing
• Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/4 lb scallops (113g)
• Calories: 385
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 90mg