Spicy Pan Seared Scallops Recipe
This Spicy Pan Seared Scallops Recipe is super quick, easy and loaded with flavor! An easy scallops recipe with a little bit of heat and a whole lot of delicious.
This post may contain affiliate links. See my Disclosure Policy for more info.
Table of Contents
Cast Iron Seared Scallops With Spicy Butter Sauce
These Seared Scallops are very easy to prepare and loaded with flavor. If you are in need of an elegant meal that is also low effort, these Spicy Scallops are it!
This easy scallops recipe is great for beginners because the ingredients and preparation are so minimal.
How Do You Prepare Frozen Scallops
I only have access to frozen scallops and have found them to be quite tasty. If you have access to fresh scallops (lucky you) you don’t need to worry about the thawing step.
First you are going to want to thaw your frozen scallops. Overnight, in the refrigerator. Do not try to fast-track this step.
If the scallops have the mini muscle on the sides, go ahead and remove those. Don’t worry, you will be able to see these little pieces of flesh on the sides of the scallops. Just use your finger to pinch it and pull it off the scallop then discard.
Next place the scallops on layers of paper towels then cover with paper towels. Leave them for 10-15 minutes to dry out.
Then you are ready to cook.
How Do You Know When The Scallops Are Done
If you get a good sear on each side they will usually be done. You can press on the tops with your finger and feel the firmness when done as well. Or, just to be sure you can always slice into one to ensure the middle is not shiny and raw.
Ingredients Needed For This Spicy Seared Scallops Recipe (screenshot for grocery list)
- Large Scallops
- Oil
- Salt
- Butter
- Chili Garlic Sauce (find it in the Asian foods aisle)
How To Make Pan Seared Scallops
- If frozen, thaw scallops overnight in the refrigerator.
- If the scallops have the mini muscle on the sides, go ahead and remove those. Don’t worry, you will be able to see these little pieces of flesh on the sides of the scallops. Just use your fingers to pinch it and pull it off the scallop then discard.
- Next place the scallops on layers of paper towels then cover with paper towels. Leave them for 10-15 minutes to dry out. Salt scallops.
- Mix melted butter and chili sauce, set aside.
- Heat oil in cast iron pan over high heat 3-4 minutes.
- Place scallops flat side down in pan and cook 2 minutes to sear. Flip scallops and cook approximately 2 minutes or until just cooked through.
- Remove pan from heat then spoon chili butter mixture over the top of the scallops
- Serve topped with buttery chili sauce and fresh parsley.
What To Serve With Pan Seared Scallops
Pasta, rice, bread and vegetables all go nicely with seared scallops. Here are a few side dish recipes to get you started: Oven Roasted Asparagus, Black Bean & Corn Salad, Lemon Garlic Kale Salad or Lemon Garlic Pasta.
If you love this scallops recipe be sure to try this Lemon Butter Pan Seared Scallops Recipe.
Save this Recipe!
Enter your email & I’ll send it straight to your inbox.
Spicy Pan Seared Scallops Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 Lb Large Scallops
- Oil
- Salt
- 1/4 Cup Butter - melted
- 1 Tablespoon Chili Garlic Sauce
- Parsley - chopped
Instructions
- If frozen, thaw scallops overnight in the refrigerator.
If the scallops have the mini muscle on the sides, go ahead and remove those. Don’t worry, you will be able to see these little pieces of flesh on the sides of the scallops. Just use your fingers to pinch it and pull it off the scallop then discard.
Next place the scallops on layers of paper towels then cover with paper towels. Leave them for 10-15 minutes to dry out. Salt scallops.
Mix melted butter and chili sauce, set aside.
Heat oil in cast iron pan over high heat 3-4 minutes.
Place scallops flat side down in pan and cook 2 minutes to sear. Flip scallops and cook approximately 2 minutes or until just cooked through.
Remove pan from heat then spoon chili butter mixture over the top of the scallops
Serve topped with buttery chili sauce and fresh parsley.
Nutrition
Welcome!
Nicole Harris is the recipe creator behind WonkyWonderful, sharing fast, budget-friendly meals for busy families. Since 2012 she’s been developing 30-minute dinners, kid-approved favorites, and holiday dishes with flair - all with real ingredients and no fuss. She grew up stretching simple pantry staples into something delicious, and that shows up in every recipe: easy, affordable, and full of flavor. Read more...
