Creamy Shrimp and Scallops is a rich and satisfying seafood dish where tender shrimp and juicy scallops are gently simmered in a smooth garlic cream sauce. It’s quick enough for a weeknight meal but elegant enough to serve on special occasions. This recipe serves 2.
Ingredients
Seafood:
200g shrimp (peeled and deveined)
200g scallops (cleaned, side muscle removed)
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
Cream Sauce:
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small shallot, finely chopped (optional)
¾ cup heavy cream
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon dried thyme or 1 teaspoon fresh
¼ teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley or chives for garnish
Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
1. Prepare the Seafood
Pat shrimp and scallops dry with paper towels. Season both lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Sear the Shrimp and Scallops
Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the scallops first—place them in the hot pan and cook undisturbed for about 2 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside. Cook the shrimp in the same pan for about 1–2 minutes per side, just until pink. Set aside with the scallops.
3. Make the Cream Sauce
Lower the heat to medium. Add a touch more butter if needed. Sauté garlic and shallot for 1–2 minutes until soft and fragrant. Pour in the cream, stir in Parmesan cheese, thyme, and chili flakes. Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Taste and season with salt and pepper.
4. Combine and Finish
Return the shrimp and scallops to the pan. Gently spoon the sauce over them and let everything warm together for 1–2 minutes. Do not overcook.
5. Serve
Garnish with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice. Serve over pasta, mashed potatoes, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Tips for Extra Flavor
Add a splash of white wine before the cream for more depth
Use a bit of lemon zest in the sauce for brightness
Top with a few capers for a salty contrast
Creamy Shrimp and Scallops is rich, buttery, and full of flavor.
