Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops
Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops is a luxurious seafood dish that feels like fine dining but can be prepared easily at home. Tender lobster meat and perfectly seared scallops are coated in rich garlic butter, creating a meal that’s indulgent, flavorful, and perfect for special occasions. Whether you’re cooking for a romantic dinner, a celebration, or simply treating yourself, this dish delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort.
The key to success lies in using fresh seafood, cooking it gently, and letting the garlic butter enhance—not overpower—the natural sweetness of the lobster and scallops. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a stunning dish that looks impressive and tastes unforgettable.
Ingredients
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2 lobster tails, shells removed and meat cut into chunks
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1 pound sea scallops, patted dry
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4 tablespoons unsalted butter
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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5–6 garlic cloves, finely minced
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½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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¼ teaspoon paprika
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1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
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1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
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Optional: red chili flakes for heat
Instructions
Begin by preparing the seafood. Pat the scallops completely dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture is essential for achieving a beautiful golden sear. Season both the scallops and lobster meat lightly with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Set aside.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Once the pan is hot and the butter is melted, carefully add the scallops in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
Sear the scallops for about 2–3 minutes per side, without moving them, until a golden crust forms. Once cooked, remove the scallops from the pan and set them aside.
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add another tablespoon of butter, followed by the lobster meat. Cook the lobster for 3–4 minutes, stirring gently, until the meat turns opaque and tender. Be careful not to overcook, as lobster can become tough.
Lower the heat slightly and add the remaining butter to the pan. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly until fragrant. Avoid browning the garlic.
Return the scallops to the pan and gently toss them with the lobster and garlic butter sauce. Add the lemon juice and chili flakes, if using. Let everything warm together for about 1–2 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully.
Turn off the heat and sprinkle fresh parsley over the dish. Give it a final gentle toss to coat the seafood evenly in the garlic butter sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops immediately while hot. This dish pairs wonderfully with:
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Creamy mashed potatoes
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Buttered pasta or rice
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Steamed asparagus or green beans
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Crusty bread to soak up the sauce
Tips for Perfect Results
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Use dry-packed scallops for the best sear
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Do not overcook the seafood
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Keep garlic on low heat to prevent bitterness
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Fresh lemon juice brightens the rich butter sauce
Variations
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Add white wine to the pan for extra depth
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Finish with grated Parmesan for a richer sauce
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Serve over creamy risotto for a restaurant-style presentation
Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops is rich, elegant, and surprisingly simple to make. With its buttery sauce and tender seafood, this dish is guaranteed to impress