Seared Scallops with Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce

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Golden, tender, and irresistibly rich—these Seared Scallops with Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce are a fast-track ticket to gourmet bliss. Whether you’re cooking to impress or indulging in a weeknight treat, this recipe turns a handful of simple ingredients into something restaurant-worthy. Each scallop boasts a perfect crust, while the creamy Cajun sauce packs a luxurious punch of smoky heat.

The magic lies in the balance: buttery sear meets the boldness of Cajun seasoning, mellowed by a dreamy splash of cream. It’s quick enough for a last-minute dinner yet elegant enough for a special night in. Serve it with crusty bread or buttered pasta and you’ve got a masterpiece on a plate.

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What Kind of Scallops Should I Use?

For best results, choose dry sea scallops. These are larger than bay scallops and aren’t treated with preservatives, which means they sear beautifully without releasing excess moisture. If you can only find wet scallops, give them a gentle pat with paper towels and let them rest on a paper towel-lined plate for 15 minutes before cooking.

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Ingredients for the Seared Scallops with Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce

• Sea scallops – The star of the show. Look for fresh, dry-packed scallops for the best caramelized crust.
• Cajun seasoning – Brings bold, spicy, and smoky flavors that pair beautifully with seafood.
• Heavy cream – Adds silky richness and balances out the heat in the Cajun spices.
• Garlic – Fresh minced garlic enhances the savory flavor of the cream sauce.
• Butter – For both searing the scallops and building the base of the sauce.
• Olive oil – Helps create a hot surface to develop that golden crust.
• Parsley – Chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and fresh contrast to the creamy sauce.
• Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning the scallops just right before searing.

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How To Make the Seared Scallops with Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce

Step 1: Prep the Scallops

Pat the scallops dry with paper towels and let them rest for about 10-15 minutes. This ensures a perfect sear. Season both sides lightly with salt, pepper, and a pinch of Cajun seasoning.

Step 2: Sear the Scallops

In a large skillet, heat a combination of olive oil and butter over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add scallops in a single layer without overcrowding. Sear for 2 minutes on each side or until golden brown with a crisp crust. Remove and set aside on a plate.

Step 3: Build the Sauce Base

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add a bit more butter if needed. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

Step 4: Make It Creamy and Cajun

Sprinkle in Cajun seasoning to taste, then pour in the heavy cream. Stir continuously, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Simmer the sauce for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Return the scallops to the skillet and gently spoon the sauce over them. Let them warm through for 1-2 minutes. Finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley.

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How to Serve and Store Seared Scallops with Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce

These scallops are best served immediately while the sauce is warm and the crust is crisp. Pair them with buttery linguine, mashed potatoes, or even a crusty baguette to mop up the spicy cream sauce. For a lighter option, serve over steamed veggies or a bed of wilted spinach.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent the scallops from becoming rubbery. Avoid microwaving, as it can ruin the texture.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What if I only have frozen scallops?

You can absolutely use frozen scallops! Just make sure to thaw them overnight in the fridge and pat them very dry before cooking.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently before adding the scallops.

Is this dish very spicy?

The heat level depends on your Cajun seasoning. If you’re spice-sensitive, start with a smaller amount and build up as needed.

Can I substitute the cream?

For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half, but the sauce will be less rich. Coconut cream can also work for a dairy-free alternative.

How do I know when scallops are perfectly cooked?

Perfect scallops should be golden on the outside and just opaque in the center. They cook quickly, usually within 2-3 minutes per side.

What wine pairs well with this recipe?

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with the richness and spice of the dish.

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Want More Seafood Ideas?

If you loved these seared scallops, here are more seafood recipes you’ll definitely want to explore:

• Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna for a decadent twist on comfort food.
• Best Marinated Grilled Shrimp if you’re looking for something smoky and light.
• Baked Crab Legs in Butter Sauce for your next dinner party indulgence.
• Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta for more of that signature spice-and-cream combo.
• Easy Creamy Polenta Shrimp Recipe for a Southern-inspired bowl of comfort.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest seafood board so you can revisit it whenever the craving strikes: Life with Nina on Pinterest.

I’d love to hear how it turned out! Did you crank up the spice or keep it mellow? Maybe added a splash of wine or lemon? Let’s share our tips and tricks in the comments—because the best cooking happens when we learn from each other.

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