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One-Pan Creamy Lemon Butter Scallops

Five perfectly seared One-Pan Creamy Lemon Butter Scallops swimming in a rich, creamy lemon butter sauce garnished with fresh parsley.
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Cook tender scallops in a rich, creamy lemon butter sauce using just one skillet for a fast and elegant meal.

Ingredients

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  • 1 lb large sea scallops, patted very dry
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Season the dry scallops lightly with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  3. Place the scallops in the hot skillet, ensuring they do not touch. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown crusts form. Remove scallops from the pan and set aside.
  4. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the broth simmer and reduce slightly for 1 minute.
  6. Stir in the heavy cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
  7. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  8. Return the seared scallops to the pan. Spoon the sauce over the scallops and cook for 1 minute to reheat through. Do not overcook.
  9. Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Patting the scallops completely dry before searing is key to achieving a good crust.
  • If you prefer a lighter sauce, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, but the sauce will be thinner.
  • Serve this dish over cooked pasta or alongside steamed asparagus for a complete meal.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookifyme.com/one-pan-creamy-lemon-butter-scallops/