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Seared Scallops with Spicy Cajun Cream

Golden seared scallops in a smoky, spicy Cajun cream sauce — a restaurant-worthy Southern-inspired seafood dish made easily at home.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Cajun, Seafood
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Scallops and Sauce
  • 1 lb large sea scallops patted dry
  • 2 tbsp butter, divided
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp Cajun seasoning plus more to taste
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 0.5 cup chicken broth or seafood stock
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 0.5 tsp smoked paprika
  • 0.25 tsp cayenne pepper adjust to taste
  • 0.5 piece lemon, juiced
  • 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese optional
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
  • salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Cast iron or stainless steel skillet
  • Tongs
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk

Method
 

  1. Pat scallops dry and season with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning.
  2. Heat butter and oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Sear scallops 2 minutes per side until golden; remove and set aside.
  4. Add garlic, sauté briefly, then deglaze with broth.
  5. Stir in cream, Cajun seasoning, paprika, and cayenne; simmer until thickened.
  6. Add Parmesan and lemon juice; adjust seasoning.
  7. Return scallops to pan, coat with sauce, and serve with parsley and lemon.

Notes

Dry scallops thoroughly for the best sear. Adjust spice level by varying cayenne and Cajun seasoning.