Is it really possible to make restaurant-quality Garlic Butter Lobster & Scallops at home in under 30 minutes? Absolutely—and it’s easier than you think. According to a 2023 survey by the National Fisheries Institute, lobster and scallops ranked in the top five most craved seafood dishes by Americans dining out. But why limit yourself to restaurant visits when you can create that same magic in your own kitchen?
This dish brings together two of the ocean’s most luxurious ingredients, bathed in rich garlic butter and seared to perfection. Whether you’re preparing a romantic dinner, celebrating a special occasion, or simply treating yourself, this Garlic Butter Lobster & Scallops recipe will impress every time.
Ingredients
For the Garlic Butter:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Seafood:
- 2 lobster tails (4–6 oz each), split in half
- 12 large sea scallops, patted dry
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for searing)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step
Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Butter
In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Stir in lemon juice, zest, paprika, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 2: Sear the Scallops
Pat scallops dry and season with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add scallops in a single layer (don’t overcrowd). Sear for 2–3 minutes per side until a golden crust forms. Remove and keep warm.
Step 3: Cook the Lobster Tails
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed. Place lobster tails flesh-side down and sear for 2–3 minutes. Flip and baste with the garlic butter. Cover loosely and let steam for another 3–4 minutes until the meat is opaque and tender.
Step 4: Combine and Finish
Return scallops to the skillet. Pour remaining garlic butter over the seafood and let everything warm together for 1–2 minutes. Garnish with extra parsley and a squeeze of lemon.
Variations
- Add Pasta: Toss the seafood and garlic butter with linguine or fettuccine for a decadent pasta dish.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for some heat.
- Herb Lovers: Try fresh thyme or tarragon for a fragrant herbal twist.
- Citrus Swap: Use orange or lime zest for a unique flavor profile.
Cooking Note
- Pat the scallops very dry before searing to get a perfect golden crust.
- Do not overcook lobster—its meat should be just opaque, not rubbery.
- Use high-quality butter for maximum flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This elegant dish pairs beautifully with:
- Creamy mashed potatoes or cauliflower purée
- Buttered asparagus or roasted broccolini
- A crisp, chilled glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc
- Crusty sourdough bread to soak up the garlic butter
You can also serve this over creamy polenta or a simple bed of rice for a satisfying and complete meal.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
- Refrigerate Leftovers: Store in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
- Reheat Gently: Warm over low heat to avoid toughening the seafood.
- Prep Ahead: Garlic butter can be made 3 days in advance and stored in the fridge.
- Freezing: Not recommended due to seafood texture changes.
Timing
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 2 servings (can easily be doubled)
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 620 kcal
Protein: 42g
Sodium: 780mg
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
- Use Ghee: Replace butter with ghee for a dairy-free, lactose-free version.
- Lighten It Up: Use half the butter and substitute the rest with low-sodium chicken broth.
- Lower Sodium: Opt for unsalted butter and skip extra added salt.
- Keto-Friendly: Skip pasta sides and pair with low-carb veggies like zucchini noodles.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Pan: This drops the pan temperature and leads to steaming instead of searing.
- Not Drying the Scallops: Moisture prevents browning and causes rubbery texture.
- Overcooking Lobster: Use a thermometer—lobster is done at 135–140°F.
- Using Pre-Minced Garlic: Fresh garlic delivers much better flavor in this dish.
Conclusion
Creating restaurant-level Garlic Butter Lobster & Scallops at home isn’t just possible—it’s a culinary delight you can master with ease. This quick, elegant dish is perfect for special occasions or indulgent weeknight dinners.
Give it a try and let us know how yours turns out! Love this dish? You might also enjoy our Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta recipe.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen scallops or lobster tails?
Yes, just thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking.
What’s the best skillet to use?
A heavy cast-iron or stainless-steel skillet provides the best sear.
Can I substitute shrimp for scallops?
Absolutely! Large shrimp work beautifully in this dish.
How do I know if scallops are done?
They should be firm to the touch with a golden crust on both sides.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, as long as all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Garlic Butter Lobster Scallops
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings (can easily be doubled) 1x
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Garlic Butter:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Seafood:
- 2 lobster tails (4–6 oz each), split in half
- 12 large sea scallops, patted dry
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for searing)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step-by-Step
Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Butter
In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Stir in lemon juice, zest, paprika, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 2: Sear the Scallops
Pat scallops dry and season with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add scallops in a single layer (don’t overcrowd). Sear for 2–3 minutes per side until a golden crust forms. Remove and keep warm.
Step 3: Cook the Lobster Tails
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed. Place lobster tails flesh-side down and sear for 2–3 minutes. Flip and baste with the garlic butter. Cover loosely and let steam for another 3–4 minutes until the meat is opaque and tender.
Step 4: Combine and Finish
Return scallops to the skillet. Pour remaining garlic butter over the seafood and let everything warm together for 1–2 minutes. Garnish with extra parsley and a squeeze of lemon.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 15
Nutrition
- Calories: 650
- Sodium: 780mg
- Protein: 42g