Seared Scallops with Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce

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Golden-crusted, tender seared scallops bathed in a silky Cajun-spiced cream sauce are a luxury you can bring to your table in under 30 minutes. The heat from the Cajun seasoning melds with the sweetness of the scallops to create a dish that’s decadent, comforting, and wildly flavorful.

This is the kind of meal you serve when you want to impress someone—or just spoil yourself a little. It’s surprisingly easy, yet feels like something you’d order at a high-end coastal restaurant. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner with wine or a romantic weekend splurge, this dish brings the bold and buttery in equal measure.

Why You’ll Love This Seared Scallops with Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce

The balance of richness and spice is what makes this recipe a favorite. You get the creamy, velvety mouthfeel from the sauce, contrasted with a lively kick from the Cajun blend. The scallops themselves are pan-seared to a golden finish with a slight crisp, giving way to their naturally sweet and tender centers.

It also comes together quickly. If you’re craving something special but don’t want to fuss over complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients, this recipe checks all the right boxes. Bonus: it looks stunning on a plate.

What Kind of Scallops Should I Use?

When making this dish, opt for large sea scallops rather than the smaller bay scallops. Sea scallops are meatier and hold up well to searing without overcooking. Look for ones that are labeled “dry-packed” if possible. These don’t have added preservatives or moisture, so you’ll get a better sear.

If your scallops are frozen, make sure to thaw them completely and pat them very dry before cooking. Moisture is the enemy of a good crust, and with scallops, the golden sear is everything.

Ingredients for the Seared Scallops with Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce

This recipe relies on a few key ingredients that bring depth, texture, and flavor to each bite. The combination of creamy and spicy elements plays beautifully against the delicate scallops. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Sea scallops
• Olive oil
• Butter
• Heavy cream
• Garlic
• Cajun seasoning
• Lemon juice
• Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh parsley (optional)

The scallops are the heart of this recipe, so their quality makes all the difference. Olive oil and butter work together to achieve that golden sear. Garlic infuses the cream sauce with bold aroma, while Cajun seasoning adds smoky heat. A touch of lemon juice brightens up the richness, and Parmesan brings it all together with salty, savory depth. Finish with salt and pepper to balance everything, and a sprinkle of parsley for a pop of freshness if you like.

How To Make the Seared Scallops with Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce

Step 1: Pat Dry and Season

Make sure your scallops are thoroughly thawed and patted dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Scallops

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and a tablespoon of butter. Once hot, sear the scallops for about 2 minutes per side until a golden crust forms. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Sauce Base

In the same pan, reduce heat to medium. Add a bit more butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

Step 4: Add Cream and Seasoning

Pour in the heavy cream and stir in Cajun seasoning and lemon juice. Let the mixture simmer gently for 3–5 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly.

Step 5: Stir in Parmesan

Add grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted into the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 6: Return Scallops to Pan

Add the scallops back to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them. Cook for another minute just to warm through.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Finish with chopped fresh parsley if using. Serve immediately over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread.

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

This recipe yields enough to comfortably serve two people as a main course or up to four as a smaller starter. Serve it immediately while the scallops are still tender and the sauce is warm and luscious. It pairs especially well with a bed of rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or even a side of garlic bread to soak up the sauce.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. When reheating, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat to avoid overcooking the scallops. Adding a splash of cream can help loosen the sauce again.

What to Serve With Seared Scallops with Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce?

Garlic Butter Rice

Fluffy, fragrant rice cooked with a touch of garlic and butter creates the perfect canvas to absorb the spicy cream sauce.

Roasted Asparagus

Light and slightly crisp, roasted asparagus brings a fresh and green contrast to the creamy richness of the scallops.

Crusty French Bread

For mopping up every drop of that Cajun cream sauce, nothing beats warm, toasted slices of French bread.

Lemon Butter Pasta

A light lemony pasta with hints of butter and herbs works as a zesty, neutral partner to balance out the spice.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes

Whipped to perfection, they’re a cozy and mild base that complements the heat without stealing the show.

Grilled Zucchini

Its subtle smokiness and firm texture offer a great side with a lighter bite.

Simple Mixed Greens Salad

A salad with vinaigrette adds acidity and crunch to refresh the palate between bites.

Charred Corn with Lime

The natural sweetness and slight char bring a whole new layer of flavor when served next to spicy scallops.

Want More Seafood Ideas?

If you love the bold flavors in these seared scallops, here are a few other seafood-inspired recipes that bring richness and flair:

• Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna is indulgent and full of luscious seafood flavor in every layer.

• Easy Creamy Polenta Shrimp Recipe offers a smooth and savory twist on classic Southern comfort.

• Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce balances bright and creamy elements for a refreshing summer bite.

• Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa & Lime Chili Sauce bring sweet heat with a tropical flair.

• Creamy Garlic Butter Lobster Tails are a luxurious seafood showstopper for special nights.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use extra spice? Serve it over pasta or rice?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook boldly.

Explore beautifully curated seafood and dinner ideas on Luna Meals on Pinterest and find your next flavor escape.

Conclusion

Seared Scallops with Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce is a celebration of texture and taste—golden, buttery scallops in a creamy sauce with just enough kick to keep things exciting. It’s easy enough to cook on a whim but elegant enough to serve when you want to impress. Whether you’re plating it for a quiet evening in or a special occasion, this dish turns any meal into an experience worth savoring.

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