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Seared Scallops with Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce Recipes

Seared Scallops with Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce

Golden seared scallops paired with a rich Cajun cream sauce make a dish that feels gourmet but takes less than 20 minutes to prepare. It’s elegant, bold, and perfect for date nights or special dinners at home.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 3
Course: Pan-seared, Blended (for the sauce)
Cuisine: American / Seafood
Calories: 430

Ingredients
  

  • 12 large sea scallops dry-packed, if possible
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • ¾ cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped

Method
 

  1. Pat scallops dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add scallops in a single layer and sear 2 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
  3. Reduce heat to medium. Melt butter in the same skillet, add garlic, and cook for 30 seconds.
  4. Stir in Cajun seasoning and paprika. Pour in heavy cream and simmer 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
  5. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  6. Return scallops to the pan for 1 minute, spooning sauce over them to coat.
  7. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Notes

  • Dry-packed scallops are best—they sear golden without releasing excess liquid.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook scallops in batches if necessary.
  • Adjust Cajun seasoning to match your spice preference.
  • Serve with pasta, potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
  • Scallops are delicate—avoid reheating in the microwave.

Nutritional Facts (per serving, 3 servings)

  • Calories: 430 kcal
  • Protein: 26 g
  • Fat: 31 g
  • Saturated fat: 17 g
  • Carbohydrates: 7 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg
  • Sodium: 720 mg