Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops
Rich & buttery • Tender seafood • Restaurant-style dinner
Description
Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops is an elegant seafood dish featuring tender lobster meat and juicy sea scallops coated in a rich garlic butter sauce. Fresh garlic, melted butter, lemon juice, and fragrant herbs combine to create a delicious sauce that enhances the natural sweetness of the seafood without overpowering it.
This impressive recipe is perfect for date nights, special occasions, holiday dinners, or whenever you want to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home. The lobster becomes succulent and flavorful, while the scallops develop a beautiful golden crust when seared properly. Serve everything with the warm garlic butter sauce, fresh lemon wedges, and your favorite side dishes.
Ingredients
For the seafood
– 2 lobster tails (about 5–6 oz each)
– 1 lb sea scallops, preferably dry-packed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– ½ teaspoon paprika
– ½ teaspoon garlic powder
For the garlic butter sauce
– 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 5 garlic cloves, finely minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
– ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
– ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 2 tablespoons seafood broth or chicken broth, optional
– Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the seafood
If using frozen lobster tails or scallops, thaw them safely in the refrigerator. Pat the scallops thoroughly dry with paper towels so they can develop a golden crust.
Using kitchen scissors, carefully cut through the top shell of each lobster tail and gently loosen the meat. Lift the meat slightly over the shell if desired, keeping it attached at the base.
Season the lobster and scallops with salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
Step 2: Prepare the garlic butter
Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30–60 seconds, stirring frequently until fragrant. Do not let the garlic turn dark brown.
Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, Italian seasoning, optional red pepper flakes, and broth if using. Stir well, then remove from the heat. Mix in the chopped parsley and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the lobster
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the prepared lobster tails on a baking sheet or in a baking dish.
Brush the lobster meat generously with garlic butter. Roast for approximately 8–12 minutes, depending on the size of the tails, until the meat is opaque and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Avoid overcooking, as lobster can become tough and rubbery.
Step 4: Sear the scallops
While the lobster cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Arrange the scallops in a single layer, leaving space between them. Sear for approximately 2–3 minutes on the first side without moving them, until a golden crust develops.
Turn the scallops and cook for another 1–3 minutes, depending on their size, until the centers are opaque and they reach 145°F (63°C).
Transfer the cooked scallops to a plate.
Step 5: Combine with garlic butter
Reduce the skillet heat to low. Add a few spoonfuls of the prepared garlic butter sauce and gently toss the scallops in the sauce.
Add the cooked lobster tails to the skillet briefly, spooning the remaining garlic butter over the seafood. Heat gently for about 30 seconds to combine the flavors without overcooking.
Step 6: Garnish and serve
Arrange the lobster tails and scallops on a serving platter. Drizzle generously with the remaining garlic butter sauce and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
Serve immediately with lemon wedges, roasted vegetables, steamed asparagus, rice, mashed potatoes, or warm crusty bread.
Recipe Details
– Prep time: 15 minutes
– Cook time: 15–20 minutes
– Total time: Approximately 30–35 minutes
– Servings: 2
– Course: Main course
– Cuisine: American-inspired seafood
– Cooking methods: Oven roasting and pan-searing
– Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops
– Dry the scallops well: Excess moisture prevents a beautiful golden sear.
– Use dry-packed scallops: They generally brown better than scallops treated with added water or phosphates.
– Avoid burning the garlic: Cook it gently to preserve its sweet, fragrant flavor.
– Do not overcrowd the skillet: Cook scallops in batches if necessary.
– Watch the cooking time: Both lobster and scallops can become tough if overcooked.
– Use fresh lemon: Lemon juice balances the richness of the butter.
– Customize the flavor: Add extra parsley, a pinch of cayenne, or a little grated Parmesan if desired.
– Serve immediately: Seafood tastes best when freshly cooked.
– Store leftovers safely: Refrigerate promptly in an airtight container and consume within 3–4 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out.
Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
Q1: Can I use frozen lobster tails and scallops?
Yes. Thaw them in the refrigerator before cooking and pat them dry thoroughly.
Q2: How do I know when lobster is cooked?
The meat should be opaque and firm, with an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Q3: Why aren’t my scallops getting golden brown?
They may be too wet, the pan may not be hot enough, or the skillet may be overcrowded. Pat them dry and sear them in a hot pan without moving them too soon.
Q4: Can I make this recipe without wine?
Yes. This recipe does not require wine. A little seafood broth or chicken broth can add extra flavor to the butter sauce.
Q5: What sides go best with lobster and scallops?
Garlic mashed potatoes, asparagus, rice pilaf, roasted broccoli, buttered pasta, or a crisp green salad are excellent choices.
Q6: Can I prepare the garlic butter ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare it in advance and refrigerate it in a covered container. Reheat gently before serving.
Q7: Can I use salted butter?
Yes, but reduce the added salt and adjust the seasoning to taste.
Short Description
Juicy lobster tails and golden-seared scallops are coated in a rich garlic butter sauce with fresh lemon, parsley, and fragrant herbs. This elegant seafood dinner is easy to prepare and perfect for romantic dinners, holidays, or special occasions at home!