Garlic Herb Butter Scallops

Name: Garlic Herb Butter Scallops
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 17 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound large sea scallops; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; Salt and pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Globetrotter Food Guide

I absolutely love preparing Garlic Herb Butter Scallops for a quick yet luxurious dinner. The combination of tender scallops seared to perfection and infused with a fragrant herb butter is simply irresistible. It takes only a short time to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight treat or an impressive dish for guests. Every bite is a delightful mix of flavors, and I am always amazed at how such a simple dish can elevate a meal. Trust me, this will become a go-to in your kitchen!

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-01-22T09:25:29.706Z

When I first attempted making Garlic Herb Butter Scallops, I was nervous about getting the scallops just right. After a few tries, I discovered that high heat is crucial to achieving that beautiful golden crust. This method not only locks in the flavor but also creates a stunning presentation on the plate.

I've played around with different herbs, but using fresh parsley and thyme truly enhances the butter's richness. Don't skip the step of resting the scallops before cooking them—this little trick ensures they sear beautifully.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Succulent scallops cooked to perfection in a herby, buttery sauce
Quick and easy, perfect for a romantic dinner at home
Elegant presentation that impresses without requiring complex techniques

Choosing the Perfect Scallops

When selecting scallops for this recipe, aim for large sea scallops rather than bay scallops. Sea scallops are meatier and provide a better texture when seared. Look for scallops that are plump, fresh, and have a slight translucent quality. Avoid any scallops that are overly wet; they should be dry to the touch. If purchasing frozen scallops, ensure they are completely thawed and patted dry before cooking to achieve that beautiful golden sear.

Another important factor to consider is the quality of the garlic and herbs you use. Fresh herbs like parsley and thyme bring vibrant flavors that enhance the dish significantly. Dried herbs can be used in a pinch, but fresh will provide a much more aromatic quality. The garlic should be minced finely to help it infuse quickly into the butter, creating a rich, savory base for the scallops.

Technique for Perfectly Searing Scallops

Achieving the perfect sear on scallops requires a hot skillet and patience. Once the butter and garlic are sizzling, lay the scallops in a single layer without crowding the pan. This allows for proper heat circulation and avoids steaming them. Avoid flipping the scallops too soon; they should release naturally from the pan when they’re ready. If they stick, give them a bit more time to develop that golden crust—look for the edges to turn a rich brown color, signaling they are ready to flip.

Keep the heat at medium-high to get a nice sear without overcooking the interior. Scallops generally take about 2-3 minutes per side, but keep an eye on them to avoid cooking beyond the tender, slightly translucent center. Perfectly cooked scallops should be firm yet springy to the touch. Once done, they should be just opaque in the center with a delightful caramelized exterior.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Garlic Herb Butter Scallops:

Ingredients

1 pound large sea scallops
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Garlic Herb Butter Scallops:

Prepare the Scallops

Pat the scallops dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.

Heat the Butter

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.

Sear the Scallops

Add the scallops to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on one side without moving them, until golden brown. Flip and cook the other side for another 2 minutes.

Add Herbs

Add the chopped parsley and thyme to the skillet, tossing gently to coat the scallops in the herby butter.

Serve

Remove the skillet from heat and serve the scallops immediately, drizzled with the herb butter.

Pro Tips

For the best results, make sure to use dry scallops that have not been treated with preservatives. This will ensure a nice sear and prevent excess moisture from releasing when cooking.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Garlic Herb Butter Scallops, consider serving them alongside a light salad or creamy risotto. A bed of lemon-infused quinoa can also complement the flavors beautifully while adding a nutritious touch. You can garnish the scallops with additional fresh parsley or even a sprinkle of lemon zest for a refreshing contrast that brightens the dish.

For a special touch, pair your scallops with a chilled white wine or sparkling water infused with citrus. These refreshing beverages enhance the dining experience, balancing the rich buttery sauce beautifully.

Storage and Reheating

If you have any leftovers, store the scallops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. However, for the best texture, I recommend enjoying them fresh, as reheating can lead to a rubbery texture. If you must reheat, do so gently in a skillet over low heat just until warmed through, and avoid adding extra butter to prevent them from absorbing too much and losing their flavor.

For meal prepping, I suggest preparing the herb butter in advance. Simply store it in the fridge until you're ready to use it. This way, when it’s time to make your scallops, they can be cooked freshly in just a few minutes, creating a quick, satisfying dinner any night of the week.

Questions About Recipes

→ How do I know when scallops are done cooking?

Scallops should be opaque and lightly browned on the outside, taking about 2-3 minutes per side over high heat.

→ Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?

Yes, but it's essential to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking for the best results.

→ What can I serve with Garlic Herb Butter Scallops?

They pair beautifully with a light salad, quinoa, or garlic bread. A glass of white wine also complements them wonderfully!

→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

While scallops are best fresh, you can prepare the herb butter in advance and sear the scallops just before serving.