If you are craving a dish that feels like a cozy hug on a plate yet dazzles your taste buds with sophistication, this Pan-Seared Scallops with Mashed Potatoes Recipe is exactly what you need. The tender, perfectly caramelized scallops paired with smooth, buttery mashed potatoes create a heavenly contrast in texture and flavor. This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight dinner but elegant enough to impress guests, making it a versatile favorite worth adding to your culinary collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this recipe. Each component brings its own magic—from the fresh scallops that offer a succulent, ocean-fresh bite to the creamy mashed potatoes that serve as the perfect comforting base. The olive oil and butter create that irresistible golden crust, while simple seasonings keep the flavors balanced and inviting.
- 1 lb large scallops: Choose fresh, dry-packed scallops for the best sear and flavor.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Adds a fruity richness and helps achieve a golden crust.
- 2 tbsp butter: Enhances flavor and adds a luscious finish during cooking.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: The simple seasoning that brings out all the natural flavors.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a pop of color and fresh herbal notes.
- 1 cup mashed potatoes (prepared separately): Smooth and creamy, the perfect bed for scallops to shine.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional): Adds a subtle smoky depth and vibrant hue if you want to elevate the dish.
How to Make Pan-Seared Scallops with Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season Your Scallops
Begin by patting your scallops dry with paper towels. This step is crucial because removing excess moisture ensures that they sear beautifully instead of steaming. Next, sprinkle salt and pepper evenly over both sides—simple seasoning that honors the scallops’ natural sweetness.
Step 2: Heat the Pan and Melt Butter with Olive Oil
Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil along with the butter. The combination helps you get that perfect golden-brown crust without burning. Wait until the mixture is hot and shimmering before adding the scallops—this heat jump-starts the caramelization process that gives scallops their unforgettable flavor and appearance.
Step 3: Sear the Scallops
Carefully add scallops to the pan in a single layer, leaving space between each one. Crowding the pan will cause the scallops to steam, so patience is a virtue here. Cook each side for about 2 to 3 minutes until they develop a lovely golden crust. Avoid moving them early so they develop a proper sear.
Step 4: Plate the Dish
Once seared to perfection, serve the scallops right over a warm bed of your prepared mashed potatoes. The creamy mash balances the scallops’ delicate texture and offers a comforting base that makes the dish wholesome and satisfying.
Step 5: Garnish and Finish
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a burst of freshness and a pop of green. Drizzle any pan juices left in the skillet over the scallops and potatoes to add an extra layer of rich flavor. Now you’re ready to dig into this irresistible Pan-Seared Scallops with Mashed Potatoes Recipe!
How to Serve Pan-Seared Scallops with Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley enhance the dish visually and provide a fresh contrast to the richness of scallops and potatoes. A light drizzle of lemon juice or a sprinkle of smoked paprika will not only add color but brighten up the flavor profile beautifully.
Side Dishes
While the scallops and mashed potatoes create a fabulous duo, pairing them with simple steamed vegetables such as asparagus or green beans gives a refreshing crunch and adds nutritional balance to your plate. A crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette also complements the richness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, try plating the mashed potatoes in a neat circle and placing the scallops on top, then drizzle pan sauce artistically around the plate. Using edible flowers or microgreens for garnish can further elevate the visual appeal, turning this Pan-Seared Scallops with Mashed Potatoes Recipe into a gourmet experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store the scallops and mashed potatoes separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This keeps the textures intact and prevents the scallops from becoming rubbery. Consume leftovers within 1 to 2 days for best quality.
Freezing
Freezing is not ideal for scallops after cooking, as their texture can suffer greatly. However, mashed potatoes freeze quite well. Store mashed potatoes in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months and thaw in the fridge before reheating. For the best experience, cook fresh scallops when ready to serve.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the mashed potatoes in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Warm the scallops quickly in a hot skillet with a little butter to regain some of their original texture, but avoid overheating to prevent toughness.
FAQs
What type of scallops should I use for this recipe?
For the best results, use fresh dry-packed large scallops. Avoid wet scallops as they contain added water, which can cause them to steam instead of sear properly, impacting texture and flavor.
Can I prepare the mashed potatoes from scratch?
Absolutely! Fresh homemade mashed potatoes using butter, cream, and a pinch of salt elevate this recipe to new heights. Just be sure they are warm and creamy before plating.
Is smoked paprika necessary in the recipe?
No, smoked paprika is optional but highly recommended if you want to add a subtle smoky flavor and a splash of color. It beautifully complements the scallops without overpowering them.
How do I know when scallops are cooked perfectly?
Scallops should have a golden crust on the outside and be slightly translucent in the center, tender and moist but not raw. Usually, a quick 2-3 minute sear per side is all you need.
Can I use this recipe for other shellfish?
This technique works well with other large shellfish like sea scallops or even shrimp, though cooking times may vary. Just adjust accordingly to ensure proper sear and doneness.
Final Thoughts
This Pan-Seared Scallops with Mashed Potatoes Recipe is a fantastic way to bring a touch of luxury to your dinner table without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of flavors and textures is simply irresistible, so don’t hesitate to try it tonight or impress your next guests with this easy-to-make gourmet delight.
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Pan-Seared Scallops with Mashed Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
A quick and elegant dish featuring pan-seared large scallops with a golden crust, served over creamy mashed potatoes and garnished with fresh parsley. Perfect for a delightful dinner in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Seafood
- 1 lb large scallops
Cooking Fats and Oils
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
Seasonings and Garnishes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Side
- 1 cup mashed potatoes (prepared separately)
Instructions
- Prepare Scallops: Pat the scallops dry thoroughly with a paper towel to ensure they sear properly. Season both sides liberally with salt and pepper, and if desired, sprinkle with smoked paprika for extra flavor.
- Heat Pan: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil and butter. Allow the butter to melt completely and the mixture to heat until it begins to shimmer but not smoke.
- Sear Scallops: Arrange the scallops in a single layer in the hot skillet, making sure not to crowd them for even searing. Cook each side for 2 to 3 minutes until a beautiful golden crust forms. Resist moving them too much to achieve a perfect sear.
- Plate the Dish: Transfer the seared scallops and any pan juices onto a serving plate over a bed of warm mashed potatoes.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the scallops and drizzle remaining pan juices on top to enhance flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy this elegant and comforting meal.
Notes
- For best results, make sure scallops are very dry before seasoning and searing.
- If using frozen scallops, thaw completely and pat dry.
- Mashed potatoes can be homemade or store-bought, but should be warm when serving.
- Smoked paprika is optional but adds a subtle smoky depth to the scallops.
- Use a heavy skillet, such as cast iron, for optimal searing.
