Creamy Garlic Butter Scallops & Shrimp (Restaurant-Quality at Home)
If you’re looking for a luxurious seafood dinner that feels like it came straight from a high-end restaurant but is surprisingly easy to make at home, this Creamy Garlic Butter Scallops & Shrimp recipe is exactly what you need. Juicy scallops, tender shrimp, rich garlic butter sauce, and a silky cream base come together in under 30 minutes—making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
This dish is naturally gluten-free, low in carbs, and packed with protein, making it a favorite for keto and low-carb lifestyles as well. Serve it with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or even zucchini noodles for a lighter option.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Butter Scallops & Shrimp
- Quick & easy: Ready in about 25–30 minutes
- One-pan recipe: Minimal cleanup
- Restaurant-style flavor at home
- Keto & low-carb friendly
- Perfect for date night, holidays, or entertaining
The combination of garlic, butter, cream, and seafood creates a rich yet balanced flavor that never feels heavy when cooked correctly.
Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Butter Scallops & Shrimp
For the Seafood
- ½ lb large sea scallops (patted dry)
- ½ lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Garlic Butter Cream Sauce
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4–5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth or seafood stock
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Scallops & Shrimp
Step 1: Prepare the Seafood
Pat the scallops and shrimp completely dry using paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a beautiful golden sear. Season both generously with salt and black pepper.
Step 2: Sear the Scallops
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add scallops in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Sear for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove scallops from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
In the same skillet, add shrimp and cook for 1–2 minutes per side, just until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside with the scallops.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the skillet. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant (do not brown).
Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the pan—this adds incredible flavor.
Step 5: Add Cream & Cheese
Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Simmer gently for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens.
Step 6: Combine & Finish
Return scallops and shrimp to the skillet. Spoon sauce over the seafood and simmer for 2–3 minutes until everything is heated through. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
Pro Tips for Perfect Scallops & Shrimp
- Dry seafood = better sear. Moisture prevents browning.
- Use large sea scallops, not bay scallops.
- Don’t overcook—seafood becomes rubbery quickly.
- Freshly grated Parmesan melts better than pre-shredded.
- If sauce thickens too much, add a splash of broth or cream.
What to Serve with Creamy Garlic Butter Scallops & Shrimp
This versatile dish pairs beautifully with many sides:
- Pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or angel hair)
- Steamed rice or risotto
- Mashed potatoes
- Cauliflower mash (low-carb)
- Zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash
- Crusty gluten-free bread for dipping
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigeration:
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Reheating:
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving if possible, as seafood can overcook.
Freezing:
Not recommended. Cream-based sauces tend to separate when frozen.
Nutrition Information (Approximate, Per Serving)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Protein: 38g
- Fat: 34g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 2g
- Cholesterol: 220mg
- Sodium: 620mg
Values may vary depending on portion size and ingredients used.
Health Benefits of Scallops & Shrimp
- High-quality lean protein
- Rich in omega-3 fatty acids
- Excellent source of vitamin B12, selenium, and zinc
- Naturally low in carbs
- Supports heart and brain health
FAQs – Creamy Garlic Butter Scallops & Shrimp
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as written. Just ensure your broth and Parmesan are certified gluten-free.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Absolutely. With low carbs and high healthy fats, it fits perfectly into a keto or low-carb diet.
Can I use frozen scallops or shrimp?
Yes, but thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to ensure proper searing.
Can I substitute half-and-half for heavy cream?
You can, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. Heavy cream is recommended for best results.
What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
You can substitute with Romano cheese or leave it out for a lighter sauce.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes! Spinach, mushrooms, asparagus, or sun-dried tomatoes make great additions.
How do I know when scallops are done?
Perfectly cooked scallops are opaque and firm, with a golden crust on the outside.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Garlic Butter Scallops & Shrimp recipe is proof that elegant, indulgent meals don’t have to be complicated. With simple ingredients and quick cooking time, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality seafood dinner in the comfort of your own kitchen.
