The Story & Intro
Every time I make Seared Scallops with Lobster Cream Sauce, I feel like I’m turning an ordinary evening into something truly special. Back in Crete, seafood wasn’t a luxury it was a way of life. My grandmother taught me how to respect the sea and cook its gifts simply but beautifully. While we didn’t always have lobster, we did have fresh shellfish, creamy sauces, and long family dinners filled with laughter.
Now, at 38, living far from those island shores, Seared Scallops with Lobster Cream Sauce brings that same feeling of warmth and elegance right into my kitchen. I still hear my grandmother’s voice reminding me not to rush the pan, to let the scallops develop that golden crust, and to always taste the sauce before serving.
This dish feels fancy, but the truth is… Seared Scallops with Lobster Cream Sauce is surprisingly easy to make at home. You don’t need a restaurant kitchen. You just need good ingredients, a hot pan, and a little confidence. And yes my kitchen still gets messy! Butter splashes, garlic everywhere, sauce bubbling happily on the stove. That’s where the joy lives.
In the U.S., this dish has become a symbol of celebration anniversaries, date nights, holiday dinners, or simply treating yourself after a long week. The contrast between the crisp, golden scallops and the rich, silky lobster cream sauce is pure comfort and luxury in one bite.
Whether you’re new to cooking seafood or already comfortable in the kitchen, I promise you this: Seared Scallops with Lobster Cream Sauce will make you feel proud, excited, and deeply satisfied. Let’s make something unforgettable together.
Ingredients
For the Seared Scallops
- 1 lb large sea scallops, patted dry
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Lobster Cream Sauce
- 1 lobster tail, cooked and chopped
- 1 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup seafood stock or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp paprika
- ¼ tsp cayenne (optional)
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the scallops
Pat the scallops completely dry using paper towels. This step is critical for getting that beautiful golden sear. Season both sides with salt and black pepper.
2. Heat the pan
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The pan should be hot but not smoking.
3. Sear the scallops
Place scallops in a single layer without overcrowding. Let them sear undisturbed for 2–3 minutes per side until they form a deep golden crust. Remove and set aside.
4. Start the lobster cream sauce
In the same pan, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Pour in seafood stock and scrape up all those delicious browned bits.
5. Add cream and lobster
Stir in heavy cream and chopped lobster meat. Let the sauce simmer gently until it thickens slightly.
6. Finish the sauce
Add Parmesan, paprika, and cayenne. Season with salt and pepper. The sauce should be silky, rich, and deeply flavorful.
7. Combine and serve
Return scallops to the pan just long enough to warm through. Spoon that luxurious lobster cream sauce generously over the top.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over creamy mashed potatoes for a rich, comforting meal
- Pair with buttered pasta or risotto for an elegant dinner
- Add roasted asparagus or green beans for balance
- Serve with crusty bread to soak up every drop of sauce
- Finish with a squeeze of lemon for brightness
Recipe Card 🍽️
⏱️ Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
🛒 Ingredients
- Sea scallops
- Lobster tail
- Butter
- Garlic
- Heavy cream
- Parmesan
- Paprika
- Seafood stock
👩🍳 Instructions
- Dry and season scallops
- Sear in hot buttered pan
- Sauté garlic
- Add cream and lobster
- Simmer and season
- Return scallops and serve
📝 Notes
- Always dry scallops before searing
- Use fresh lobster for best flavor
- Do not overcook scallops they turn rubbery fast
📊 Nutrition (Approx. per serving)
- Calories: 520
- Protein: 36g
- Fat: 38g
- Carbs: 6g
100-Word Story Version
Hi, I’m Marilyn from Crete, and Seared Scallops with Lobster Cream Sauce reminds me of the seafood dinners I grew up with along the Mediterranean coast. My grandmother taught me how to cook with patience and love, especially when working with delicate seafood. Now, at 38, I bring those lessons into my kitchen by pairing golden seared scallops with a rich, creamy lobster sauce. This dish feels luxurious yet comforting, perfect for sharing with loved ones and creating beautiful food memories at home.
Conclusion
Seared Scallops with Lobster Cream Sauce is the kind of dish that turns an ordinary night into an unforgettable experience. The tender scallops, the silky sauce, and the deep seafood flavor come together in perfect harmony. It’s proof that you don’t need a restaurant reservation to enjoy something truly special.
I hope this recipe inspires you to slow down, cook with confidence, and share something beautiful with the people you love. That’s what cooking has always meant to me creating comfort, joy, and lasting memories one plate at a time.