These Seared Scallops with Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce turn a simple weeknight into something extraordinary with perfectly golden scallops that caramelize beautifully in the pan. The rich, spicy Cajun cream sauce brings bold Louisiana flavors with just the right amount of heat, creating an elegant dish that’s restaurant-quality but surprisingly easy to make at home. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s proof that impressive doesn’t have to mean complicated.
If you love elegant seafood dishes with bold flavors, you’ll also enjoy our Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon for another special-occasion worthy option. For more creamy, spiced dishes, try our New Orleans Shrimp and Corn Bisque or Creamy Shrimp Enchiladas—both deliver that same luxurious, flavorful experience with different regional twists.
Seared Scallops with Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce
Seared Scallops with Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce deliver rich, golden crusts and bold Southern heat in a luscious, velvety sauce.
4
servings15
minutes20
minutes350
kcal35
minutesIngredients
1 pound scallops
2 tablespoons butter
2 teaspoons olive oil
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/4 cup chopped parsley
1 pinch salt
1 pinch black pepper
Directions
- Pat the scallops dry with paper towels and lightly season them with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the butter and let it melt completely.
- Place the scallops in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd. Sear one side for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
- Flip the scallops and sear the other side for an additional 2 minutes, then remove them from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, pour the heavy cream, stirring constantly until it begins to thicken slightly.
- Add the Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper to the cream sauce, mixing well to incorporate the spices.
- Reduce the heat to low and allow the sauce to simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Return the scallops to the skillet, coating them in the sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to warm through.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving. Serve immediately for optimal flavor.
Nutrition Facts
- Total number of serves: 4
- Calories: 250kcal
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 620mg
- Potassium: 400mg
- Sugar: 8g
- Protein: 6g
- Calcium: 60mg
- Iron: 2mg
Can’t get enough of great flavors? Check out these popular recipes that readers love making again and again.
For more seafood specialties, our Seafood Stuffed Shells and Garlic Butter Pan Seared Pork Chops deliver restaurant-quality meals that are perfect for impressing guests. When you’re craving bold, spicy comfort, the Crockpot French Onion Meatballs and Crispy Poblano Chicken Tacos bring satisfying heat to your dinner table. Need more quick elegant dinners? Our Espresso Toffee Cookies and Key Lime Pie Bars offer that same special-occasion feel you’ll love.
Browse our full collection for more kitchen inspiration that’ll have your family asking for seconds.
