Few seafood dishes feel as luxurious and satisfying as garlic butter lobster and scallops. It’s rich, elegant, and surprisingly simple to prepare at home. When done correctly, you get:
Sweet, tender lobster meat
Golden, caramelized pan-seared scallops
Velvety, aromatic garlic butter sauce
Bright citrus balance from fresh lemon
This is the kind of dish that feels restaurant-worthy but requires only a few high-quality ingredients.
Why This Combination Works So Well
🧈 Butter + Garlic = Flavor Base
Garlic butter enhances the natural sweetness of seafood without overpowering it. It adds richness, aroma, and depth.
🦞 Lobster = Sweet & Tender
Lobster meat is naturally delicate and slightly sweet. It pairs perfectly with savory butter.
🐚 Scallops = Golden & Buttery
When properly seared, sea scallops develop a golden crust while staying tender inside. That contrast in texture makes every bite memorable.
Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops Recipe
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 2–3
Ingredients
2 lobster tails
10–12 large sea scallops (patted dry)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and black pepper
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Optional: red pepper flakes
Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Lobster
Using kitchen shears, cut the top of the lobster shell lengthwise.
Gently pull the meat up and rest it on top of the shell.
Season lightly with salt and pepper.
2️⃣ Sear the Scallops
Pat scallops completely dry (very important for golden crust).
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Place scallops in the pan without crowding.
Sear 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.
Remove and set aside.
Do not move them while searing — this creates that perfect crust.
3️⃣ Cook the Lobster
In the same pan, add 2 tablespoons butter.
Place lobster tails flesh-side down.
Cook 3–4 minutes per side until opaque and slightly golden.
Avoid overcooking — lobster becomes tough quickly.
4️⃣ Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
Reduce heat to medium.
Add remaining butter and minced garlic.
Cook 30–60 seconds until fragrant (not browned).
Stir in lemon juice and parsley.
5️⃣ Finish the Dish
Return scallops to the pan briefly.
Spoon garlic butter sauce over lobster and scallops.
Garnish with extra parsley and lemon wedges.
Serve immediately.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
Always pat scallops dry before cooking.
Use a hot pan for proper caramelization.
Don’t overcrowd the skillet.
Cook seafood just until opaque — no more.
Use fresh garlic for best flavor.
What to Serve With It
This dish pairs beautifully with:
Creamy mashed potatoes
Garlic butter pasta
Steamed asparagus
Roasted vegetables
Crusty bread to soak up sauce
For a lighter option:
Lemon rice
Fresh green salad
Grilled zucchini
Flavor Variations
Want to elevate it even more?
Add white wine to the butter sauce
Finish with grated parmesan
Include fresh thyme or basil
Add a splash of heavy cream for richer sauce
Sprinkle with smoked paprika
Is It Worth It?
Absolutely. Garlic butter lobster and scallops is:
Elegant
Impressive
Surprisingly quick
Packed with flavor
It’s perfect for:
Date night
Special occasions
Holiday dinners
Celebratory meals