Garlic Butter Shrimp and Scallop Recipe – Quick, Easy & Restaurant-Quality!

Introduction

There’s something undeniably luxurious about seafood, and this garlic butter shrimp and scallop recipe brings that restaurant-quality taste right to your kitchen—without the hefty price tag. If you love juicy shrimp, tender scallops, and a rich, buttery garlic sauce, this dish is for you. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just craving a fancy yet effortless weeknight meal, this recipe is quick, easy, and absolutely divine. The best part? It’s ready in just 20 minutes!

I first fell in love with shrimp and scallops while dining at a seaside restaurant, where the aroma of sizzling garlic and butter filled the air. When I realized how simple it was to recreate that magic at home, it became one of my go-to recipes for impressing guests—or just treating myself after a long day. Let’s dive into this shrimp scallop recipe that’s guaranteed to become a new favorite!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
• Restaurant-Quality: Delivers that rich, buttery seafood experience without the high price.
• Minimal Ingredients: Uses simple pantry staples to bring out bold, delicious flavors.
• Protein-Packed: Shrimp and scallops are lean, nutritious, and packed with protein.
• Versatile: Serve it over pasta, rice, or with a side of roasted veggies for a complete meal.

Equipment Needed

• Large skillet (preferably cast iron or stainless steel for the best sear)
• Tongs (for flipping seafood)
• Garlic press or fine grater
• Measuring spoons
• Mixing bowl
• Paper towels (for drying scallops)

Ingredients

For the Seafood:

• 1/2 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 lb sea scallops (pat dry with paper towels)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Optional Serving Suggestions:

• Cooked pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce
• Steamed asparagus or roasted broccoli

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Seafood

1. Pat the scallops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture—this helps them sear beautifully.
2. Season the shrimp and scallops with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.

Step 2: Sear the Scallops

1. Heat 1/2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the scallops, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded. Sear for 2 minutes on one side until a golden crust forms.
3. Flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

1. In the same pan, add another 1/2 tbsp olive oil and the shrimp.
2. Cook for about 2 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque.
3. Remove from the pan and set aside with the scallops.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

1. Reduce heat to medium-low and melt butter in the same pan.
2. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Stir in lemon juice and let the sauce simmer for 1 minute.
4. Return the shrimp and scallops to the pan, tossing them in the sauce.
5. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately!

Tips for the Best Results

• Pat Scallops Dry: Ensures a perfect golden sear.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Enhances the rich, garlicky butter sauce.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cooking in batches prevents steaming.
• Use High-Quality Butter: It makes all the difference in flavor.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Add more red pepper flakes if you love heat!

Variations

• Keto-Friendly: Serve with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
• Dairy-Free: Use ghee or dairy-free butter.
• Extra Creamy: Add 1/4 cup heavy cream to the sauce.
• Citrusy Twist: Swap lemon for lime juice for a tangier profile.

Serving Ideas

• Over Pasta: Toss with linguine or angel hair pasta.
• With Rice: Serve over jasmine or garlic butter rice.
• Low-Carb: Enjoy with sautéed spinach or roasted Brussels sprouts.
• For Brunch: Serve with a side of scrambled eggs and toast.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp and scallops?

Yes! Just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Can I reheat shrimp and scallops?

Yes, gently warm them in a pan over low heat with a little butter to maintain their texture.

What’s the best scallop type for this recipe?

Sea scallops work best as they are larger and easier to sear.

Can I make this ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the garlic butter sauce in advance and reheat it before adding seafood.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Fat: 20g

Concluding Thoughts

This garlic butter shrimp and scallop recipe is everything you need for a quick, easy, and restaurant-quality meal. Whether you serve it over pasta, rice, or alongside a fresh salad, it’s bound to impress. Try it out and let me know in the comments—what’s your favorite way to enjoy shrimp and scallops? If you love this recipe, don’t forget to share it on Pinterest and tag me!