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    Urban Bliss Life » All Recipes » Seafood Recipes » Cast Iron Scallops

    Published: June 19, 2024 / Updated: June 7, 2024 by Marlynn Jayme Schotland · This post may contain affiliate links.

    Cast Iron Scallops

    15 shares
    Jump to Recipe Print Recipe
    cast iron scallops seared with sauce and title text overlay.
    seared scallops in a cast iron skillet with butter garlic herb sauce.
    cast iron seared scallops on a bed of couscous garnished with herbs and lemon slices and title text overlay.

    Looking for an elegant yet easy and flavorful seafood dinner? This Cast Iron Scallops recipe is a great option for dinner parties and family dinners alike.

    cast iron seared scallops on a bed of couscous garnished with herbs and lemon slices.

    We're on a mission to help more home cooks feel confident cooking scallops at home!

    While scallops are often served at high end restaurants and considered special occasion dishes, they are actually quite easy to cook at home. And there are many different methods that work for cooking scallops.

    You can grill them, like these bacon-wrapped scallops, and even air fry them, like these Air Fryer Scallops.

    Cooking scallops in a cast iron is one of my favorite ways to cook scallops. It's super easy and fast. And, you can get a beautiful sear on them, creating a rich layer of flavor.

    Whether you're cooking for a small dinner party or a quiet date night dinner at home, this recipe will teach you how easy it is to cook scallops.

    Jump to:
    • 🌟 Why this recipe works
    • 🛒 Ingredient notes
    • ✅ Step-by-step instructions
    • 👩🏻‍🍳 Recipe FAQs
    • 🍽 Serving ideas
    • 🍷 🥂 Wine pairings
    • 🍳 Kitchen tools and equipment
    • More scallop recipes
    • Cast Iron Scallops

    🌟 Why this recipe works

    seared scallops in a cast iron skillet with butter garlic herb sauce.

    This recipe works wonderfully for both family dinners and sophisticated gatherings.

    • Fast - Using the cast iron, you can get perfect scallops in just about 5 minutes. They cook so quickly!
    • Easy - Even beginning cooks can sear scallops in a cast iron skillet. I've got step-by-step photos below to help you out.
    • Flavorful - Pan-seared scallops have a lovely layer of flavor The scallops are seasoned simply with salt, pepper, and a hint of garlic, allowing their natural flavors to shine. A splash of lemon juice at the end adds a zesty brightness that balances the dish perfectly.

    🛒 Ingredient notes

    bowls of ingredients to make cast iron scallops.

    You only need a few simple ingredients for searing scallops in a cast iron.

    • Scallops - There are different types of scallops that could work for this recipe. The most common types you'll find in grocery stores are bay scallops and sea scallops. Opt for sea scallops, which are larger, if you have the option.
    • Olive oil - Extra virgin olive oil is used to create that beautiful sear on the sides of the scallops and top of the scallops. You can also use avocado oil or grapeseed oil.
    • Butter, lemon juice, garlic - Butter, lemon juice, and minced garlic create a bright and flavorful lemon butter sauce.
    • Parsley - Chopped fresh parsley adds a hint of brightness and fresh herbaceousness. Feel free to add other light fresh herbs, such as dill.
    • Salt and pepper - A little kosher salt and ground black pepper is all the seasoning you need for these scallops.

    ✅ Step-by-step instructions

    You'll find a full list of ingredients with measurements, along with detailed instructions, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post. But here are some step-by-step photos with quick instructions to show you how easy it is to make this scallop recipe.

    raw scallops on a paper towel.
    seasoned raw scallops on a paper towel.
    hand holding a small bowl of olive oil over a cast iron skillet.
    1. Dry scallops between a layer of paper towels to remove excess moisture.
    2. Season scallops with kosher salt and black pepper.
    3. Add olive oil to a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
    several scallops in a cast iron skillet.
    seared scallops in a cast iron skillet
    pink plate with seared scallops.

    4. Sear scallops on one side for 2-3 minutes, undisturbed, until the bottom layer gets a golden brown crust.
    5. Once a golden brown crust forms flip it over and sear undisturbed for 2-3 minutes, until a golden brown crust forms on the other side.
    6. Remove scallops and transfer to a plate.

    two pats of butter melting in a cast iron skillet.
    butter, garlic, and herbs in a cast iron skillet.
    butter, garlic, herb sauce in a cast iron skillet.
    seared scallops in a cast iron skillet with butter garlic herb sauce.

    7. Add butter to the pan and allow to melt. Lower heat to medium-low.
    8. Add the garlic, parsley, and lemon juice.
    9. Stir and cook for 1 minute.
    10. Return the scallops to the skillet and cook with the garlic butter sauce for 1-2 minutes, using a spoon to spoon the sauce over the scallops.

    Serve immediately.

    👩🏻‍🍳 Recipe FAQs

    cast iron seared scallops on a bed of couscous garnished with herbs and lemon slices.
    How do I get the perfect sear on my scallops?

    To get that beautiful golden crust, make sure you properly dry the scallops. This is crucial because moisture can cause the scallops to steam rather than sear. Also, make sure the pan is hot before adding the scallops. Finally, make sure you don't move the scallops around too much, and only flip them only once.

    How do I know when my scallops are done?

    Scallops are done when they turn opaque and firm but are still slightly springy to the touch. They should have a golden-brown crust on the outside and be tender inside. Overcooking can make them tough and rubbery, so it's important to watch them closely. Gently press the top of the scallop with your finger. It should feel firm yet springy.

    Why are my scallops sticking to the pan?

    Scallops may stick to a cast iron pan if it’s not properly heated or if there’s not enough fat. Make sure you only add scallops to a hot pan, and use enough oil to lightly coat the bottom of the pan. Also: don't flip the scallops too soon or too many times; they will stick if not ready to turn over. When they are ready, it's easy to flip them over.

    What's the best way to store leftover scallops?

    These are best eaten right after they are cooked. However, you can allow them to cool down, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Refrigerate cooked scallops for no more than 2 days.

    What's the best way to reheat cooked and refrigerated scallops?

    Reheat previously cooked scallops in a pan over low heat. Do not microwave scallops, as they will get rubbery and tough in the microwave.

    🍽 Serving ideas

    cast iron seared scallops on a bed of couscous garnished with herbs and lemon slices.

    These cast iron scallops are delicious served over basmati rice, garlic rice, cilantro lime brown rice, quinoa, or couscous. You can also serve the scallops over pasta.

    For side dishes that complement the flavors and help create a full satisfying meal, consider serving Instant Pot Green Beans or Instant Pot Garlic Mashed Potatoes.

    🍷 🥂 Wine pairings

    cast iron seared scallops on a bed of couscous garnished with herbs and lemon slices and a glass of white wine.

    Scallops pair beautifully with a variety of white wines. Try pairing this recipe with either a Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, or sparkling wine.

    A lightly oaked Chardonnay's hints of vanilla and citrus mirror the buttery, lemony notes of the dish.

    For those who prefer a crisper wine, Sauvignon Blanc is a fantastic choice. Its bright acidity and herbal notes cut through the richness of the scallops, providing a refreshing balance.

    If you're celebrating or just in the mood for something special, Champagne or other sparkling wine is the way to go. Its effervescence and subtle toasty flavors elevate the elegance of the scallops, making every bite and sip feel like a celebration.

    🍳 Kitchen tools and equipment

    seared scallops in a cast iron skillet with butter garlic herb sauce.

    Ready to make this recipe? Here are the kitchen tools and equipment you'll need:

    • Cast iron skillet - You'll need a medium or large cast iron skillet.
    • Tongs - Kitchen tongs make it easy to flip scallops over as they are searing.

    More scallop recipes

    • Pan Seared scallops pasta
      Lemon Garlic Scallop Pasta (Dairy Free)
    • Seared Scallops and Corn in white bowl
      Seared Scallops with Corn and Longganisa
    • grilled bacon-wrapped scallop skewers with pineapple and parsley
      Grilled Bacon-Wrapped Scallops with Teriyaki
    • several cooked scallops topped with herbs and garlic, with lemon slices and parsley, on a white plate.
      Air Fryer Scallops

    Did you make this recipe? Don't forget to leave a 5-Star 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 rating in the recipe card, and if you really loved it, please leave a comment further down on the page. Thank you!

    seared scallops in a cast iron skillet with butter garlic herb sauce.

    Cast Iron Scallops

    No ratings yet
    Prep Time: 5 minutes mins
    Cook Time: 15 minutes mins
    Total Time: 20 minutes mins
    Recipe by Marlynn Schotland
    Seared scallops in a cast iron skillet are easy to make and delicious served as an appetizer or as the main course.
    Servings: 2
    Calories: 313kcal
    PRINT PIN RATE 🤍 SAVESaved!

    Equipment

    • 1 Cast Iron Skillet

    Ingredients

    • 8 sea scallops
    • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
    • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
    • 1 Tablespoons olive oil
    • 4 Tablespoons unsalted butter
    • 2 garlic cloves, minced
    • 1 Tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
    • 2 Tablespoons lemon juice
    Get Recipe Ingredients

    Instructions

    • Pat the scallops dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper.
    • Heat olive oil in the cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
    • Add scallops and sear on one side for 2-3 minutes, undisturbed, until the bottom layer gets a golden brown crust.
    • Once a golden brown crust forms flip it over and sear undisturbed for 2-3 minutes, until a golden brown crust forms on the other side.
    • Remove scallops and transfer to a plate.
    • Add butter to the pan and allow to melt. Lower heat to medium-low.
    • Add the garlic, parsley, and lemon juice. Stir and cook for 1 minute.
    • Return the scallops to the skillet and cook with the garlic butter sauce for 1-2 minutes, using a spoon to spoon the sauce over the scallops.
    • Serve immediately.

    Notes

    Makes 2 servings. 
    Storage: seared scallops are best served right after they are cooked. However, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 24 hours. Reheat on a skillet on the stove.
    Tried this recipe?Please leave a star rating and comment! Then snap a pic of your dish and share it on social media. Tag @UrbanBlissLife and #UrbanBlissLife!

    Nutrition

    Calories: 313kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 30g | Saturated Fat: 15g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 11g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 75mg | Sodium: 822mg | Potassium: 172mg | Fiber: 0.2g | Sugar: 0.4g | Vitamin A: 873IU | Vitamin C: 9mg | Calcium: 21mg | Iron: 0.5mg

    Nutrition information is a general estimate. Actual nutrition details may vary depending on the exact foods & brands you use to make this recipe. It does not take into account any substitutions, toppings, or optional ingredients.

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      Marlynn Jayme Schotland 2021 profile pic

      Hi! If you're looking for easy, fast, delicious family-friendly recipes, wine pairings, and travel tips, you've come to the right place! I'm Marlynn - a cookbook author, writer, photographer, and mom of two teenagers + a lovable lab retriever. I hold a WSET 2 with Distinction in wine, and am a member of Society of American Travel Writers (SATW) and the International Food, Wine, and Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA).

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