Easy Garlic-Lemon Scallops

Easy Garlic-Lemon Scallops are a quick, elegant, and incredibly flavorful seafood dish that can be made in just 15 minutes. With golden-brown seared scallops and a rich garlic-lemon butter sauce, this simple yet sophisticated recipe brings restaurant-quality flavor straight to your home kitchen. It’s ideal for both a busy weeknight dinner and a refined appetizer for guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This scallop recipe offers impressive flavor with minimal effort. Sea scallops cook quickly and beautifully, forming a golden crust while staying tender and juicy inside. The garlic-lemon butter sauce enhances their natural sweetness with just the right touch of citrus and richness. The entire dish requires only a handful of ingredients, one skillet, and less than 20 minutes, making it a reliable go-to when you want something fast yet special.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

¾ cup butter
3 tablespoons minced garlic
2 pounds large sea scallops
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon salt
⅛ teaspoon pepper

directions

Prepare the scallops:
Pat the scallops thoroughly dry with paper towels to ensure they sear properly and form a golden crust.
Cook the garlic:
In a large skillet, melt ½ cup of the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant (do not brown the garlic).
Sear the scallops:
Turn the heat up to medium-high. Season the scallops with salt and pepper. Carefully add them to the skillet in a single layer without overcrowding. Sear for 2–3 minutes on each side, until golden and just opaque in the center. Remove the scallops from the skillet and set aside.
Make the lemon butter sauce:
To the same skillet, add the remaining ¼ cup of butter and the fresh lemon juice. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom and stir to combine.
Combine and serve:
Return the scallops to the skillet. Spoon the sauce over them and let cook for 1–2 more minutes just to heat through. Serve immediately with extra sauce spooned on top.

Servings and timing

Yield: 6 servings
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

Creamy version: Add ½ cup heavy cream to the sauce after the lemon juice for a velvety finish.
Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic while sautéing.
Fresh herbs: Stir in chopped fresh parsley, thyme, or chives just before serving.
Wine sauce: Add a splash of white wine to the skillet before the lemon juice and let it reduce slightly for extra depth.
Citrus twist: Substitute or add orange or lime juice for a unique flavor variation.

storage/reheating

Storage: Store leftover scallops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or lemon juice. Avoid microwaving to prevent overcooking.
Freezing: Not recommended, as scallops can become rubbery when frozen and reheated.

FAQs

How do I know when scallops are done?

Scallops are done when they are opaque in the center and firm to the touch. Overcooked scallops become rubbery, so keep a close eye while searing.

Can I use frozen scallops?

Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat them very dry before cooking.

What’s the best pan for searing scallops?

A stainless steel or cast iron skillet is ideal for achieving a good sear and browning.

Why aren’t my scallops searing properly?

They may be too wet or your pan may not be hot enough. Always dry scallops well and heat your pan to medium-high before adding them.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

You can substitute butter with plant-based alternatives, though the flavor will differ slightly.

What sides go well with scallops?

Serve with rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. Garlic bread also pairs beautifully with the lemon butter sauce.

Can I make the sauce ahead?

The sauce is best made fresh, but you can prep the ingredients ahead of time for quick assembly.

Can I add vegetables to the skillet?

Yes, thin asparagus, spinach, or zucchini ribbons can be sautéed quickly in the same pan.

Is this dish low carb?

Yes, it’s naturally low in carbs and suitable for gluten-free and low-carb diets.

What’s the difference between sea scallops and bay scallops?

Sea scallops are larger and ideal for searing. Bay scallops are smaller and more tender, better for stews or pasta.

Conclusion

Easy Garlic-Lemon Scallops is a simple yet luxurious seafood recipe that brings bold flavor and elegance to your table in just 15 minutes. With perfectly seared scallops and a buttery lemon-garlic sauce, this dish is quick enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for guests. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home—without the wait.