Seared scallops are the kind of dish that turns an ordinary dinner into something restaurant-worthy. With their buttery, tender centers and golden crusts, they feel luxurious yet surprisingly quick to prepare. Pair that with a spicy Cajun cream sauce that hugs every bite with smoky heat and rich creaminess, and you’ve got a showstopper.

This recipe is perfect for special occasions or date nights, but it’s also simple enough for a weeknight treat. The Cajun cream sauce has just the right amount of spice to warm your taste buds without overpowering the delicate flavor of the scallops. It’s the kind of dish that leaves a lasting impression.

Why You’ll Love This Seared Scallops with Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce

This recipe brings together elegance and ease. The scallops cook in just minutes, giving you that crisp caramelized exterior and buttery inside. The sauce adds bold character, with Cajun seasoning, garlic, and cream forming an irresistible trio. It’s flavorful, comforting, and just a little fiery—everything you want from a creamy seafood dish.

Whether you’re serving this with pasta, rice, or simply some crusty bread, it brings gourmet flavor to your kitchen without a lot of fuss. It also makes for a stunning presentation if you’re looking to impress guests.

What Kind of Scallops Should I Use?

The best choice for this dish is large sea scallops. They sear beautifully and have a meaty texture that holds up well to the creamy sauce. If you can, opt for dry-packed scallops—they’re not treated with preservatives and will caramelize much better in the pan. Avoid small bay scallops for this recipe; they’re too delicate and will overcook quickly in the searing process.

Ingredients for the Seared Scallops with Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce

This dish may look elegant, but it comes together with a few powerful ingredients that each play a key role. Let’s break down what you’ll need to bring that Cajun richness to life:

Sea scallops
Olive oil
Salt and black pepper
Butter
Garlic
Cajun seasoning
Heavy cream
Parmesan cheese
Paprika
Fresh parsley

Sea scallops are the heart of this recipe—plump, tender, and ideal for searing.

A touch of olive oil helps achieve that perfect golden crust when the scallops hit the pan, while butter adds richness.

Salt and black pepper season the scallops simply but effectively.

The base of the sauce starts with garlic, bringing in a savory depth, followed by a generous amount of Cajun seasoning for that signature heat and smoky spice.

Heavy cream adds the luxurious base to balance out the kick of the seasoning, and Parmesan cheese melts into the sauce to thicken and enrich the flavor.

A dash of paprika deepens the color and flavor, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley finishes the dish with brightness.

How To Make the Seared Scallops with Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce

Step 1: Pat the Scallops Dry

Dry your scallops thoroughly with paper towels to help them sear properly. Season with salt and black pepper on both sides.

Step 2: Sear the Scallops

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering hot, add the scallops in a single layer without crowding. Sear for about 2 minutes per side until a golden crust forms. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cajun Cream Sauce

In the same pan, reduce heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add Cajun seasoning and paprika, stir to combine, then pour in heavy cream. Simmer until slightly thickened.

Step 4: Add Parmesan and Finish the Sauce

Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Return the scallops to the pan just to warm them through, spooning the sauce gently over each one. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

How to Serve and Store This Seared Scallops with Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce

This rich and flavorful dish is best served hot, straight from the skillet. It makes a perfect dinner for two to three people, especially when paired with a starch that can soak up the luscious sauce. Spoon the scallops over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, buttered rice, or al dente pasta, and pour the sauce generously on top. For a lighter option, serve them with sautéed greens or a simple salad.

If you have leftovers, allow them to cool before storing in an airtight container. Keep them in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat, just until warmed through. Be cautious not to overcook the scallops, as they can become rubbery.

What to Serve With Seared Scallops with Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce?

Creamy Mashed Potatoes

The buttery smoothness of mashed potatoes is a natural fit for the bold Cajun cream sauce. It acts as the perfect canvas for the flavors to shine.

Garlic Butter Pasta

A simple side of spaghetti or fettuccine tossed in garlic butter makes for an indulgent base. It pairs beautifully with the richness of the sauce.

Roasted Asparagus

Crisp-tender asparagus spears add a touch of freshness and contrast that complements the creaminess and spice of the dish.

Buttery Corn on the Cob

Sweet corn with a pat of butter is a casual and delicious companion to the bold Cajun flavors.

Toasted French Bread

Thick slices of toasted French bread are perfect for mopping up any remaining sauce on the plate.

Caesar Salad

The cool crunch of romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing and shaved parmesan offers a refreshing balance to the creamy scallops.

Grilled Zucchini

Sliced and grilled, zucchini brings a slightly smoky note that pairs well with the seared scallops.

Rice Pilaf

A light, herby rice pilaf provides a neutral yet satisfying side that allows the scallops and sauce to take the spotlight.

Want More Seafood Dinner Ideas?

If you’re into bold and creamy seafood dishes like these Seared Scallops with Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce, then you’re going to want to explore more indulgent ideas from our kitchen:

Try our Marry Me Shrimp Pasta for a romantic twist on Cajun flavors.
Craving something baked? Our Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole is rich, satisfying, and perfect for sharing.
Warm up with a bowl of Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup for the ultimate comfort.
Keep things light but flavorful with our Honey Garlic Shrimp Sausage Broccoli skillet meal.
Want more cozy indulgence? The Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni with Savory Beef offers a different creamy direction you’ll love.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest seafood board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how your scallops turned out. Did you crank up the Cajun spice or mellow it out with extra cream? Did you pair it with pasta or something unexpected?

I always love hearing the little twists you add. Questions are welcome too—we’re all here to cook and eat better, together.

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