Seared Scallops with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Servings

4 servings

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time

20 minutes

Total Time

35 minutes

Ingredients

For the Scallops

• 1 lb (450 g) large sea scallops

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 tablespoon butter

• ½ teaspoon sea salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Mushroom Cream Sauce

• 8 oz (225 g) mushrooms, sliced

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup heavy cream

• ½ cup chicken or seafood stock

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme

• Salt and pepper to taste

Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped

• Extra cracked black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Scallops

1. Pat the scallops completely dry with paper towels.

2. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

3. Let them sit at room temperature for 10 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Mushroom Sauce

1. Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.

2. Add mushrooms and cook until golden brown, about 5–7 minutes.

3. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

4. Add stock and simmer for 2 minutes.

5. Pour in cream and add thyme.

6. Stir in Parmesan cheese.

7. Simmer until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.

8. Season to taste.

Step 3: Sear the Scallops

1. Heat olive oil and butter in a separate skillet over high heat.

2. Place scallops in the pan without overcrowding.

3. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side.

4. Sear until a deep golden crust forms while the center remains tender.

Step 4: Assemble

1. Spoon mushroom cream sauce into shallow bowls.

2. Arrange scallops on top.

3. Scatter additional mushrooms around the plate.

4. Garnish with chopped parsley and freshly cracked pepper.

Nutrition Information (Approximate Per Serving)

• Calories: 420 kcal

• Protein: 28 g

• Fat: 28 g

• Carbohydrates: 10 g

• Fiber: 1 g

Chef's Tips

• Dry scallops thoroughly for the perfect golden crust.

• Use large sea scallops rather than bay scallops for restaurant-style presentation.

• Avoid moving the scallops while searing.

• A splash of white wine can be added to the sauce for extra depth.

• Serve immediately for the best texture.

Best Time to Serve

• Date-night dinners

• Holiday meals

• Special occasions

• Elegant seafood dinners

• Fine-dining-inspired home menus

Who Will Enjoy This Dish?

• Seafood enthusiasts

• Fans of creamy mushroom sauces

• Home cooks seeking restaurant-quality recipes

• Those looking for a sophisticated yet simple entrée

The sweet, buttery flavor of perfectly seared scallops pairs beautifully with the rich mushroom cream sauce, creating an elegant dish that feels straight out of a fine-dining restaurant while remaining surprisingly easy to prepare at home.