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Pan Seared Scallops Recipe with Champagne Sauce Easy and Perfect

pan seared scallops recipe with champagne sauce - featured image

A quick and elegant dish featuring perfectly seared scallops topped with a silky champagne sauce, ideal for special occasions or a sophisticated weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) fresh sea scallops, patted dry
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped shallots
  • ½ cup (120ml) dry champagne or sparkling wine
  • ¼ cup (60ml) heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon (5ml) fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat scallops dry with paper towels and season both sides lightly with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat a heavy skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and 1 tablespoon unsalted butter. Let butter melt and foam but not brown, about 1-2 minutes.
  3. Place scallops in the pan without touching. Cook 2-3 minutes on the first side until golden brown. Flip gently and cook 1-2 minutes on the other side until scallops are firm but slightly springy.
  4. Transfer scallops to a warm plate and cover loosely with foil to keep warm.
  5. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add remaining 2 tablespoons unsalted butter and chopped shallots. Sauté for 2 minutes until translucent and fragrant. Add minced garlic if using.
  6. Pour in champagne and simmer until reduced by half, about 3-4 minutes.
  7. Stir in heavy cream and lemon juice. Simmer gently for 2 minutes until sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Spoon champagne sauce over scallops and garnish with chopped parsley.

Notes

Pat scallops dry thoroughly to ensure a crispy crust. Do not overcrowd the pan when searing. Use a hot pan to get a golden crust without overcooking. If sauce is too thin, simmer longer to thicken. For dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and butter with vegan butter or olive oil.

Nutrition

Keywords: pan seared scallops, champagne sauce, seafood recipe, easy scallops, elegant dinner, quick seafood dish