Name: Seared Scallops with Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 6 large fresh sea scallops; 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Golden, caramelized scallops resting in a velvety Cajun cream sauce are the kind of dinner that instantly feels special but comes together in minutes. Each bite blends the sweet, delicate flavor of perfectly seared scallops with the bold, smoky heat of Cajun spices, mellowed by a creamy, buttery finish.

This dish is an ideal centerpiece for a romantic dinner, a seafood-themed evening, or when you simply want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. The beauty lies in its simplicity — a few fresh ingredients, a good sear, and the right balance of spice and cream create an unforgettable meal.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make flawless Seared Scallops with Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce, having the right tools is essential:

Cast Iron Skillet or Heavy Stainless Steel Pan: Retains and distributes heat evenly, giving the scallops that gorgeous golden crust.
Fish Spatula: Thin and flexible, it helps flip scallops without tearing their delicate surface.
Mixing Bowl: For blending your Cajun seasoning or adjusting spice levels.

Tongs: Useful for quickly moving scallops or stirring the sauce.
Whisk: Ensures your cream sauce is silky smooth and well combined.

Each tool plays its part — the skillet ensures proper sear, the spatula protects the scallops’ texture, and the whisk makes the sauce luxuriously creamy.

Ingredients for the Seared Scallops with Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce

Fresh Sea Scallops: The star of the dish; their sweet, delicate flavor pairs beautifully with the bold sauce.
Cajun Seasoning: Brings the heat and smokiness; adjust to taste for spice preference.
Butter: Adds richness and helps achieve that perfect golden sear.

Olive Oil: Prevents butter from burning and enhances flavor.
Heavy Cream: Creates the luscious base for the sauce.
Garlic: Lends aromatic depth and savory notes.

Fresh Parsley: Brightens the dish with freshness and color.
Lemon Juice: Balances the richness with a zesty finish.

How To Make the Seared Scallops with Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce

Step 1: Pat Dry and Season

Pat the scallops dry with paper towels — moisture prevents proper searing. Sprinkle both sides generously with Cajun seasoning.

Step 2: Heat and Sear

In a hot cast iron skillet with a mix of butter and olive oil, sear the scallops for about 1.5–2 minutes per side until a deep golden crust forms. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Sauce Base

In the same pan, add a bit more butter if needed. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant.

Step 4: Create the Cream Sauce

Pour in heavy cream, whisking to combine with the garlic and pan drippings. Add a pinch more Cajun seasoning for extra flavor.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Return scallops to the skillet, spooning sauce over them. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.

Serving and Storing Your Seared Scallops with Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce

Serve immediately while hot for the best texture and flavor. These scallops shine alongside creamy mashed potatoes, garlic butter pasta, or crusty bread for dipping into the sauce. A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables balances the richness.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat to preserve the scallops’ tenderness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the scallops rubbery.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when scallops are cooked through?

They should be opaque in the center and have a firm but tender texture. Overcooked scallops turn tough quickly.

Can I use frozen scallops?

Yes, just make sure they’re fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.

How spicy is the Cajun cream sauce?

It has a medium heat level; you can reduce or increase the Cajun seasoning to match your spice tolerance.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute half-and-half, though the sauce will be slightly less rich.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes — make the sauce, store it in the fridge, and reheat gently before adding freshly seared scallops.

Want More Seafood Dinner Ideas?

If you love these Seared Scallops with Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:

Baked Crab Legs in Butter Sauce for a luxurious, hands-off seafood feast.
Pan-Seared Mediterranean Cod in Tomato Basil Sauce for a lighter, herb-forward option.
Louisiana Seafood Gumbo when you crave a comforting, flavor-packed bowl.

Seafood Stuffed Shells for a creamy, indulgent pasta bake.

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 keep the spice level bold, or tone it down? Did you serve it over pasta or alongside crusty bread?

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

For more daily recipe inspiration, visit my Pinterest Life With Olivia.

Seared Scallops with Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce

Author: Olivia McKenney

Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 2 servings

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Description

Golden, caramelized scallops in a rich, velvety Cajun cream sauce — a quick yet elegant dish that balances the sweet delicacy of fresh scallops with the bold, smoky heat of Cajun spices and the luxurious smoothness of heavy cream.