How To Cook Scallops

Scallops are a versatile seafood that can be used in a variety of recipes, from pastas to skewers. You may have tried scallops at a restaurant and assumed they needed to be cooked by the capable hands of a chef. But fear not—you can do it too, and we have you covered with the steps for how to cook scallops at home.

WHAT DO SCALLOPS TASTE LIKE?

Scallops are a true jewel of the ocean. Silky soft and candy sweet, the bivalve mollusks boast a real meatiness. You can choose between sea scallops, which are large and velvety, measuring up to 2 inches across, and are generally hard seared and served in plating's of two or three; or tiny and tender bay scallops, which are great for sautés, marinating into ceviche, or served over rice or pasta.

HOW LONG TO COOK SCALLOPS

When it comes to how long to cook scallops, they generally take four to 5 minutes tops (or even less, for tiny bay scallops), no matter the method. The point is to get the hardest possible sear on the outside, while still allowing them to remain tender and just opaque within.

HOW TO PREPARE SCALLOPS

No matter the type or size of scallop, how they’re prepared, or whether they’re wet or dry (dry scallops are preserved and stored as is, while wet scallops are packed in a water and sodium solution), you should always blot away any excess moisture and allow them to drain for 10 minutes on paper towels. Scallops naturally tend to hold onto a lot of water, which can keep you from achieving that ideal sear. Then season generously just before cooking—seasoning too far in advance can also end up drawing out water. 

HOW TO SEAR SCALLOPS

1. Heat a cast-iron or nonstick skillet over high heat, then add a swirl of olive oil.

2. Heat until very hot and shimmering but not smoking. Then add your scallops, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.

3. Sear on one side, without touching or moving, for about three minutes, then carefully flip and cook the other side for about two minutes.

HOW TO GRILL SCALLOPS

1. Thread your scallops (through the sides, not the centers) onto prepared skewers.

2. Place onto a hot, greased grill or grill pan.

3. Cook without touching for two to three minutes per side. 

HOW TO BAKE SCALLOPS

1. Place scallops in a single layer in an ungreased baking dish.

2. Cover with a buttery breadcrumb topping or your choice of sauce.

3. Cook at 400°F for 10 minutes or until bubbly. 

HOW TO FRY SCALLOPS

1. Dip scallops in a beer batter or flour/egg/breadcrumb mixture and shake off excess.

2. Heat 2 to 3 inches of vegetable oil in a cast-iron or nonstick skillet until very hot and shimmering but not smoking (around 350°F).

3. Add the scallops, being careful not to crowd the pan.

4. Fry on all sides, for about 2 minutes total, then place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain before serving with a squeeze of lemon and a delicious dipping sauce. 

OUR FAVORITE SCALLOP RECIPES

PAN SEARED SCALLOPS

Sometimes simple really is best — just a quick sear, a touch of garlic and parsley, and a kiss of lemon zest lets the natural sweetness of scallops shine. Serve with crusty bread and a fresh salad for an elegant, no-fuss meal that feels like a special occasion any night of the week.

BACON WRAPPED SCALLOPS

Smoky bacon and sweet, tender scallops come together in a perfect bite on these irresistible skewers, boldly seasoned with Grill Mates® Roasted Garlic & Herb Seasoning. This crowd-pleasing combo brings a surf-and-turf twist to any gathering, from casual cookouts to elegant dinners.

GRILLED SCALLOPS AND SHRIMP

Fire up the grill for these flavorful kabobs, where juicy shrimp and tender scallops share the spotlight. With their delicate, smoky char and just the right seasoning, these skewers are a light, flavorful way to elevate your next cookout. 

Check out all of our other seafood recipe favorites.