If you’re craving a dish that feels like a restaurant-quality experience but comes together effortlessly at home, you need to try this Pan-Seared Scallops with Mashed Potatoes Recipe. It combines succulent, golden-browned scallops with creamy, buttery mashed potatoes for a harmony of textures and flavors that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re treating yourself on a weeknight or impressing guests, this dish showcases how a few well-chosen ingredients can create magic on your plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Pan-Seared Scallops with Mashed Potatoes Recipe uses a handful of simple yet essential ingredients, each playing an important role. From the richness of butter to the fresh brightness of parsley, every element contributes to a delicious balance of taste, texture, and color.
- 1 lb large scallops: Look for dry-packed scallops for the best searing results and flavor.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity flavor and helps achieve that crispy crust on the scallops.
- 2 tbsp butter: Provides richness and a lovely nutty aroma during cooking.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Simple seasoning to enhance the natural sweetness of the scallops.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness as a garnish.
- 1 cup mashed potatoes (prepared separately): Creamy and fluffy, these act as the perfect cozy base.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional): For a smoky depth that complements the seafood beautifully.
How to Make Pan-Seared Scallops with Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Dry and Season the Scallops
Start by patting each scallop dry with a paper towel. This step is crucial because moisture prevents them from developing that perfect golden crust. Then, sprinkle salt and pepper evenly on both sides to bring out their sweet, briny flavor.
Step 2: Heat the Fat in the Skillet
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter into the olive oil. The combination of these fats helps the scallops cook evenly while adding a rich, fragrant base for searing.
Step 3: Sear the Scallops
Once the skillet is hot and the butter begins to foam, place the scallops carefully in a single layer, making sure they don’t touch each other. This spacing is key to achieving a crispy sear. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes per side until that irresistible golden crust forms and the scallops become opaque.
Step 4: Plate them Over Mashed Potatoes
Take the scallops off the heat and immediately arrange them over a comforting bed of creamy mashed potatoes. This not only looks elegant but allows the warm potatoes to soak up any juices.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color and a drizzle of any remaining buttery pan juices. This simple touch elevates the dish, adding freshness and uniting all the flavors beautifully. Now, dig in and savor every bite!
How to Serve Pan-Seared Scallops with Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic garnish that brightens the plate, but feel free to experiment with a squeeze of lemon juice or a few finely chopped chives. These little touches add a zing that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy potatoes and sweet scallops.
Side Dishes
This Pan-Seared Scallops with Mashed Potatoes Recipe is a complete meal, but if you want to add something extra, consider a crisp green salad or roasted seasonal vegetables. Their lightness and crunch will complement the comforting softness of the main dish perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, try plating individual scallops atop small quenelles of mashed potatoes and drizzle with a flavored oil, like basil or chili oil. You can even plate them alongside a colorful vegetable purée to impress your guests with aesthetics as well as taste.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from this Pan-Seared Scallops with Mashed Potatoes Recipe, store the scallops and mashed potatoes separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This keeps the textures intact and flavors fresh for up to two days.
Freezing
While mashed potatoes freeze well and can be reheated successfully, scallops do not freeze as well once cooked because they tend to become rubbery. It’s best to prepare fresh scallops when possible for this recipe.
Reheating
Reheat mashed potatoes gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk to restore creaminess. For scallops, it’s better to enjoy them fresh, but if needed, warm them quickly in a hot skillet just until heated through to avoid overcooking.
FAQs
Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?
Frozen scallops can work if they are properly thawed and dried thoroughly before cooking. However, using fresh or dry-packed scallops will give you a better sear and texture.
What type of mashed potatoes works best?
Classic creamy mashed potatoes made with butter and milk or cream are ideal. Smooth and buttery potatoes create the perfect contrast with the scallops’ texture.
Is smoked paprika necessary?
Smoked paprika is optional but highly recommended. It adds a subtle smoky flavor that enhances the natural sweetness of the scallops without overpowering them.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute butter with a dairy-free alternative and use olive oil or a plant-based milk in your mashed potatoes for a dairy-free version without compromising flavor.
How do I know when the scallops are cooked perfectly?
They should have a golden crust on each side and be opaque in the center. Overcooking can make them rubbery, so keep the cooking time quick and precise.
Final Thoughts
This Pan-Seared Scallops with Mashed Potatoes Recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a luxurious meal any night of the week. Its simplicity in ingredients combined with its impressive flavor and presentation make it a sure favorite to keep coming back to. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience that perfect combination of creamy, crispy, and buttery goodness!
