Description
A delicious and flavorful recipe featuring seared sea scallops cooked to golden perfection, served with a rich and creamy spicy Cajun cream sauce that combines garlic, smoked paprika, and Parmesan cheese for a mouthwatering Cajun-inspired main course.
Ingredients
Scale
Scallops
- 1 pound sea scallops (patted dry)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (for scallops)
Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (for sauce)
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Scallops: Pat the scallops dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Season them evenly with salt, black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning.
- Sear Scallops: Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Place the scallops in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd, and cook for about 2–3 minutes per side until they develop a golden brown crust and release easily from the pan. Remove scallops and set aside.
- Make Sauce Base: In the same pan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant without browning.
- Add Seasonings: Stir in 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and the optional crushed red pepper flakes. Mix well to combine the spices with the butter and garlic.
- Deglaze and Simmer: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to scrape up any browned bits from the pan to incorporate flavor. Let the mixture simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Finish Sauce: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and lemon juice, cooking until the sauce becomes creamy, smooth, and well combined.
- Combine and Warm: Return the seared scallops to the skillet, spoon the sauce over them, and cook for an additional 1 minute to warm through and meld the flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top and serve immediately. This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Notes
- Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta to soak up the sauce.
- Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning according to your preference for heat.
- Ensure scallops are completely dry before searing to achieve a perfect golden crust.
