Scallops with Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce Recipe
There’s something truly special about gathering around the table to enjoy Scallops with Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce. This dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, combining the delicate sweetness of perfectly seared scallops with a rich, velvety cream sauce packed with the bold flavors of Cajun seasonings. The kick of spice, the touch of smokiness, and the luscious finish make every bite irresistible—like a restaurant treat you can whip up in under half an hour at home. Trust me, this is one I make for friends when I want to wow them without spending hours in the kitchen!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Just a handful of pantry staples and fresh seafood come together to deliver unforgettable taste and texture in this dish. Each ingredient plays its part to create those signature layers of flavor—don’t skip or substitute unless you really have to.
- Sea scallops (1 lb, patted dry): The absolute stars here, offering sweet briny flavor and luxurious texture when seared just right.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps the scallops brown quickly for that golden crust and prevents sticking.
- Butter (1 tablespoon): Adds rich flavor and supports the browning process, pairing perfectly with olive oil.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): The base for our silky, dreamy sauce—it’s what gives this recipe such decadent appeal.
- Cajun seasoning (2 teaspoons, plus extra for seasoning): Brings fiery spice, herbal notes, and punchy flavor to every bite.
- Smoked paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Adds deep smokiness and gorgeous color to the sauce.
- Garlic powder (1/4 teaspoon): For that hint of garlicky warmth that mellows as the sauce simmers.
- Onion powder (1/4 teaspoon): Lends subtle, savory depth to balance the other spices.
- Cayenne pepper (pinch, optional): Turn up the heat if you like a noticeable kick!
- Salt and pepper to taste: Absolutely essential for seasoning your scallops and balancing the sauce.
- Parmesan cheese, grated (1/4 cup): Melts into the cream and thickens the sauce for a nutty, umami boost.
- Chopped fresh parsley (1 tablespoon): Makes the final dish pop with freshness and vibrant color.
How to Make Scallops with Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce
Step 1: Season the Scallops
Begin by patting your scallops completely dry—this helps them sear beautifully. Sprinkle both sides with salt, pepper, and just a pinch of the Cajun seasoning. Giving them this pre-seasoning sets the stage for bold flavor in every bite while allowing the natural sweetness of the scallops to shine through.
Step 2: Sear the Scallops
Get your skillet nice and hot on medium-high heat; add both olive oil and butter. Once it’s shimmering, gently lay in the scallops in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for 2–3 minutes per side, until a gorgeous golden crust forms and the centers are just opaque. Take care not to overcrowd the pan—you want a crisp sear, not steaming! Once cooked, set them aside on a plate while you whip up the sauce.
Step 3: Make the Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce
Lower the heat to medium and pour the heavy cream into the same skillet (hello, built-in flavor!). Stir in the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, a pinch of cayenne if you like things extra zippy, and the Parmesan cheese. Keep the sauce moving with a spoon or whisk, allowing it to simmer for 3–4 minutes until just thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. The aroma at this stage is amazing!
Step 4: Finish and Serve
Return the scallops and any juices to the pan, gently spooning the sauce over them. Let everything cook together for just another minute so the flavors meld and the scallops warm through. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for that vibrant, herby finish. Serve your Scallops with Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce immediately while everything’s at its sizzling, saucy best.
How to Serve Scallops with Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce
Garnishes
Don’t underestimate the power of a beautiful garnish! A generous sprinkle of fresh parsley brightens up each plate and adds just enough freshness to balance the richness. For a little tang and color, try an extra twist of lemon over the top. If you’re feeling fancy, a delicate scatter of microgreens or ultra-thin chives never goes amiss.
Side Dishes
Scallops with Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce is incredibly versatile when it comes to sides. My personal favorite? Ladling it over al dente linguine so the sauce clings to every strand. Creamy mashed potatoes or steamed jasmine rice are also dreamy for soaking up that sauce, while garlicky sautéed greens offer a fresh, light contrast. Serve with crusty bread for ultimate saucy enjoyment.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant starter, plate three scallops per person on small appetizer plates with a spoonful of sauce and an artful swoosh of parsley oil. If you’re making this for a crowd, try serving mini portions in tasting spoons or atop crostini for a bold, flavorful passed hors d’oeuvre. For a homestyle family dinner, bring the skillet right to the table and let everyone serve themselves!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Scallops with Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors develop beautifully overnight, but be mindful not to overcook the scallops during reheating to keep them tender and juicy.
Freezing
While the cream sauce itself freezes fairly well, scallops can sometimes change in texture after freezing and thawing, becoming a little rubbery. If you do need to freeze, store the sauce separately and add freshly cooked scallops when serving for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the scallops and sauce together in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally. Resist the urge to microwave at high power, as this can make the scallops tough. A slow, gentle reheat keeps everything luscious and melt-in-your-mouth.
FAQs
Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them very dry before cooking. Excess moisture will prevent that beautiful sear you’re after in Scallops with Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce.
What Cajun seasoning do you recommend?
You can use any preferred brand, but look for one that lists paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and herbs near the top of the ingredient list. If you like even more depth, make your own at home to control the spice level!
Is this dish very spicy?
It has a pleasant, warming heat primarily from the Cajun seasoning and a bit more if you opt to add cayenne pepper. Adjust the amount of cayenne to dial it up or down to match your taste and spice tolerance.
Can I substitute half-and-half for the cream?
Absolutely! Just keep in mind that your sauce will be a little lighter and not quite as thick or rich as with heavy cream. It’s a great swap if you’re looking for a slightly healthier version.
What wine pairs best with Scallops with Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce?
Crisp, aromatic white wines such as Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or even a lightly oaked Chardonnay pair beautifully with the creaminess and spice of this dish, balancing out the richness while letting the flavors shine.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited to try Scallops with Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce as I am to share it with you! The balance of creamy, spicy, and savory flavors in this dish truly makes it a keeper. Give it a whirl, and don’t be surprised if it becomes your new favorite go-to for date nights, dinner parties, or whenever you want to treat yourself to something special.
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Scallops with Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Delight your taste buds with these succulent sea scallops coated in a spicy Cajun cream sauce. This dish is a perfect blend of flavors that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients
Sea Scallops:
- 1 lb sea scallops, patted dry
Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season the Scallops: Season scallops with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning.
- Sear the Scallops: Sear scallops in olive oil and butter until golden.
- Make the Sauce: Combine cream, seasonings, and cheese in the skillet.
- Combine and Serve: Return scallops to the pan, coat with sauce, and garnish with parsley.
Notes
- Serve over pasta, rice, or sautéed greens.
- Adjust spice level by altering cayenne pepper.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
