There’s something magical about the sizzle of shrimp and scallops hitting a hot skillet. That golden crust, that tender center—it's like fine dining in your own kitchen, minus the white tablecloths (and the hefty price tag). If you're craving a dish that feels luxurious but comes together faster than takeout, this shrimp and scallops recipe is your new go-to.

I still remember the first time I seared scallops—nervously hovering over the stove, afraid I’d ruin them. Spoiler alert: I didn’t. And now, with these 5 game-changing tips, neither will you. Whether you’re cooking for two or feeding the whole family, this recipe checks all the boxes: quick, easy, impressive, and downright delicious.

And if you love this one, you’ll definitely want to try our One-Pan Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta next—it’s another crowd-pleaser that takes just as long to cook as it does to read the ingredients list.

Ready to master seafood like a pro? Let’s dive in!

What Is This Shrimp and Scallops Recipe?

Now, I know what you’re thinking: “Wait…is this a shrimp recipe? Or a scallop one?” The answer is both—and that’s the beauty of it. Think of it like a culinary duet: shrimp brings its briny sweetness while scallops offer a buttery richness. Together, they sing harmony on your plate.

Ever heard the saying, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach”? Well, serve him this dish, and he might just propose marriage…or at least help with the dishes.

So, why not call it “Seafood Symphony” or “Tide Pool Treats”? Sure, those sound fancy, but let’s keep it real. It’s a shrimp and scallops recipe —simple, satisfying, and seriously good.

Let’s uncover what makes this combo so irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Shrimp and Scallops Recipe

This isn’t just another seafood stir-fry—it’s a flavor explosion wrapped in a crispy, caramelized shell. Imagine perfectly seared scallops with a golden crust that gives way to a melt-in-your-mouth center, paired with plump, juicy shrimp glazed in rich butter and garlic. Yes, please.

What sets this shrimp and scallops recipe apart is its balance of textures and flavors: sweet, salty, savory, and just the right amount of crunch. Plus, making it at home means you skip the restaurant markup and still get that gourmet feel.

You’ll also love how budget-friendly it can be—especially when you use frozen shrimp and catch scallops on sale. Compared to dining out, you’ll save money without sacrificing taste or elegance.

If you’ve ever drooled over our Garlic Butter Lobster Tail , you’re going to fall head over heels for this equally indulgent, yet more weeknight-friendly sibling.

Ready to impress your dinner guests—or yourself? Let’s get cooking.

How to Make This Shrimp and Scallops Recipe

Quick Overview: Fast, Flavorful, Foolproof

This shrimp and scallops recipe is a total showstopper that comes together in under 30 minutes. No fancy equipment needed—just a skillet and a few pantry staples. The result? Restaurant-quality seafood with a perfect sear and bold flavor, every single time.

It’s ideal for busy weeknights, romantic dinners, or even impressing last-minute guests. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a total beginner, this dish is totally doable.

Total Time: 25 minutes
Difficulty Level: Easy
Special Features: Quick prep, one-pan cooking, gluten-free & dairy-free options available

Key Ingredients for Shrimp and Scallops Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make this mouthwatering dish:

• 1 lb large shrimp , peeled and deveined
• 1 lb sea scallops , patted dry
• 2 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil for high heat)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (or vegan alternative)
• 3 garlic cloves , minced
• 1 lemon , juiced
• Salt and pepper , to taste
• Fresh parsley , chopped (optional for garnish)

Make sure your scallops are dry before cooking—they sear best when moisture is minimal. Also, don’t skip patting down the shrimp! Trust me, it makes all the difference.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s walk through the magic of turning simple ingredients into a sensational seafood masterpiece.

1. Prep Your Seafood

Pat both the shrimp and scallops dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect golden crust. Season lightly with salt and pepper.

2. Heat the Pan

Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Let it heat up until shimmering—but not smoking.

3. Sear the Scallops First

Add the scallops to the pan, making sure not to overcrowd them. Cook undisturbed for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

4. Cook the Shrimp

In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed, then toss in the shrimp. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and slightly curled. Remove and set aside with the scallops.

5. Deglaze with Butter & Garlic

Reduce the heat to medium. Add butter, garlic, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Stir constantly to create a silky, fragrant sauce.

6. Combine and Finish

Return the shrimp and scallops to the pan. Toss gently to coat everything in the butter-garlic sauce. Cook for another 1–2 minutes to warm through.

7. Serve and Savor

Garnish with fresh parsley and a final squeeze of lemon. Serve immediately.

What to Serve With Shrimp and Scallops Recipe

This dish shines solo, but pairing it with the right sides elevates it from a simple plate to a full-course experience. Here are three winning combinations:

1. Creamy Parmesan Risotto

The creamy texture balances the crisp seafood, and the nutty parmesan adds depth. Plus, it’s an elegant match for any special occasion.

2. Roasted Asparagus with Lemon Zest

Bright, crisp, and citrusy—this veggie side cleanses the palate and adds a pop of color to your plate.

3. Crusty Garlic Bread

Perfect for soaking up every last drop of that luscious butter sauce. Don’t skip it!

Together, these pairings offer a balanced meal with contrasting textures and complementary flavors—ideal for date night or Sunday supper.

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Shrimp and Scallops Recipe

Want to go from good to great? These expert-approved tricks will ensure your seafood shines every time.

1. Use a Hot Pan

Cold pans = soggy scallops. Always preheat your skillet until it’s nice and hot before adding seafood.

2. Don’t Crowd the Pan

Cook in batches if needed. Overcrowding lowers the temperature and prevents proper browning.

3. Choose Dry Scallops

Wet scallops release too much moisture and steam instead of searing. Look for "dry-packed" scallops at the store.

4. Salt After Drying, Not Before

Salting too early draws out moisture. Wait until after patting dry to season.

5. Let Them Rest (a Little)

After searing, let the seafood sit for a minute or two off-heat before tossing in the sauce. This helps lock in juices.

Substitution Suggestions:

• Butter : Try ghee or coconut oil for dairy-free versions.
• Oil : Avocado oil has a higher smoke point than olive oil—perfect for searing.
• Citrus : Swap lemon for lime or orange zest for a fun twist.

These small tweaks make a big difference—especially if you're aiming for that Michelin-style finish.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Leftovers? Lucky you. But to keep the quality intact, here’s how to store and reheat like a pro.

Storing:

• Fridge : Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days .
• Freezer : Freeze for up to 1 month in a sealed bag or container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating:

• Stovetop (Best Method) : Gently rewarm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.
• Microwave : Cover tightly and heat in short bursts (30 seconds at a time), stirring between intervals.
• Oven : Warm at 275°F (135°C) for 8–10 minutes, covered with foil.

Avoid boiling or overcooking, which can toughen the seafood. And never reheat more than once.

Bonus tip: This recipe does not batch well for meal prep due to texture changes, but it’s perfect for doubling for tonight and tomorrow’s lunch.

Final Thoughts: Seafood Made Simple

This shrimp and scallops recipe proves that gourmet doesn’t have to mean complicated. With just a handful of ingredients and a few key techniques, you can create a dish that tastes like it came straight from a five-star kitchen.

Whether you’re cooking for comfort, celebration, or simply because you deserve something special, this recipe delivers every time. And with our 5 essential searing tips, you’ll never look back at bland, rubbery seafood again.

So grab your skillet, fire up the stove, and treat yourself to a little ocean-side luxury—right in your own home.

More Seafood Recipes You’ll Love

Hungry for more? Check out these reader favorites:

• Lemon Butter Salmon with Dill
• Garlic Butter Lobster Tail
• One-Pan Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta
• Coconut Curry Mussels

Don’t forget to pin this recipe to your favorite Pinterest board for later, and leave a comment below letting us know how it turned out—you might inspire someone else’s next dinner!