✨ Introduction
Garlic Butter Shrimp & Scallops is the ultimate elegant seafood skillet packed with juicy shrimp, tender caramelized scallops, and rich garlic butter flavor. The buttery sauce coats every bite while the seafood cooks to tender perfection with bright lemon and savory herbs. Luxurious, comforting, and deeply satisfying, this restaurant-style seafood dish is perfect for date nights, special occasions, or elevated weeknight dinners.
🛒 Ingredients
For the Seafood
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 lb sea scallops
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tsp paprika
For the Garlic Butter Sauce
• 5 tbsp butter
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp parsley
• ½ tsp chili flakes (optional)
Optional Add-Ins
• Asparagus
• Spinach
• Cherry tomatoes
• Mushrooms
Optional Garnish
• Fresh parsley
• Lemon wedges
• Parmesan cheese
• Cracked black pepper
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Seafood
Pat shrimp and scallops dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt, pepper, and paprika.
2️⃣ Sear the Scallops
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear scallops for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and caramelized. Remove and set aside.
3️⃣ Cook the Shrimp
In the same skillet, cook shrimp until pink and lightly golden. Remove and set aside with the scallops.
4️⃣ Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
Reduce heat to medium. Melt butter in the skillet and sauté garlic until fragrant.
5️⃣ Add Flavor
Stir in lemon juice, Italian seasoning, parsley, and chili flakes if using.
6️⃣ Combine the Seafood
Return shrimp and scallops to the skillet and toss gently in the garlic butter sauce.
7️⃣ Add Optional Vegetables
Add asparagus, spinach, tomatoes, or mushrooms if desired and cook briefly until tender.
8️⃣ Garnish and Serve
Top with parsley, lemon wedges, Parmesan cheese, or cracked black pepper.
9️⃣ Serve and Enjoy
Serve hot with rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread for a rich and comforting seafood meal.
❓ FAQ
Why dry scallops before cooking?
Dry scallops sear better and develop a golden crust.
Can I use frozen seafood?
Yes, thaw completely and pat dry first.
Can I make it spicy?
Add extra chili flakes or Cajun seasoning.
What sides pair well?
Rice, pasta, asparagus, or garlic bread pair beautifully.
Can I use bay scallops?
Yes, but sea scallops give a better sear and texture.
🦐 Final Thoughts
Garlic Butter Shrimp & Scallops is the perfect elegant seafood skillet packed with juicy shrimp, tender scallops, and rich garlic butter flavor. Luxurious, flavorful, and deeply satisfying, it’s a restaurant-style seafood favorite full of warm homemade goodness.
