Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops
Garlic butter lobster and scallops is a luxurious yet surprisingly simple dish that brings restaurant-quality flavor straight to your table. Sweet, tender lobster paired with perfectly seared scallops and finished in a rich garlic butter sauce creates a meal that feels special without being complicated. Whether you’re cooking for a celebration, a romantic dinner, or simply treating yourself, this dish delivers elegance and comfort in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Quick to prepare yet impressive
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Rich, buttery garlic flavor that enhances the seafood
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Tender, juicy texture when cooked correctly
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Perfect for special occasions or elevated weeknight meals
With careful timing and quality ingredients, garlic butter lobster and scallops can be ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
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2 lobster tails, shells split and meat loosened
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12 large sea scallops, patted dry
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4 tablespoons unsalted butter
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
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½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Optional additions:
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Pinch of paprika or chili flakes
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Lemon wedges for serving
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Seafood
Pat the scallops completely dry with paper towels—this is essential for a good sear. Season both the scallops and lobster meat lightly with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Sear the Scallops
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Once hot, add the scallops in a single layer.
Sear for 2–3 minutes per side, without moving them, until a golden crust forms. Remove scallops from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Lobster
In the same pan, add another tablespoon of butter. Place the lobster tails meat-side down and cook for 2–3 minutes, then flip and cook another 2–3 minutes, until the meat is opaque and tender. Remove and set aside with the scallops.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
Lower the heat to medium. Add the remaining butter and minced garlic to the pan. Cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant (do not brown the garlic).
Stir in lemon juice and optional paprika or chili flakes.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
Return the lobster and scallops to the pan and spoon the garlic butter sauce over them. Warm for 1–2 minutes.
Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
Tips for Perfect Results
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Do not overcook lobster or scallops—they become tough quickly
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Dry scallops thoroughly for the best sear
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Use medium-high heat to develop flavor without burning
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Add garlic last to prevent bitterness
Serving Suggestions
Serve garlic butter lobster and scallops with:
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Creamy mashed potatoes
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Rice or risotto
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Steamed asparagus or green beans
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Crusty bread to soak up the sauce
Storage
This dish is best enjoyed fresh. If needed, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking.
A Simple Yet Elegant Seafood Dish
Garlic butter lobster and scallops prove that incredible flavor doesn’t require complexity. With sweet seafood, rich butter, and fragrant garlic, this dish is timeless, indulgent, and guaranteed to impress.