Creamy Garlic Butter Seafood Skillet

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Creamy Garlic Butter Seafood Skillet

Description

This Creamy Garlic Butter Seafood Skillet is a decadent, restaurant-style dish that brings the taste of the ocean to your plate. Tender shrimp, scallops, and fish fillets are sautéed in a rich garlic butter sauce, finished with a splash of cream, and lightly seasoned with fresh herbs. Quick to make and bursting with flavor, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. Serve with crusty bread, rice, or pasta to soak up every bit of the luxurious sauce.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

  • 1 lb (450 g) shrimp, peeled and deveined

  • 1 lb (450 g) scallops, cleaned

  • 1 lb (450 g) firm white fish fillets (like cod, halibut, or tilapia), cut into chunks

  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 5 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

  • 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)

  • 1 cup heavy cream

  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1 tsp paprika

  • 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Prep the Seafood: Pat the shrimp, scallops, and fish fillets dry with a paper towel. Season lightly with salt, pepper, and paprika.

  2. Sear the Seafood:

    • Heat 2 tbsp butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

    • Add scallops and sear 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

    • Sear shrimp 1-2 minutes per side until pink. Remove and set aside.

    • Sear fish chunks briefly (2-3 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.

  3. Make the Sauce:

    • In the same skillet, add remaining 2 tbsp butter. Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant (~2 minutes).

    • Deglaze pan with white wine, scraping browned bits from the bottom (optional). Let it reduce for 1-2 minutes.

    • Reduce heat to medium, stir in cream and Parmesan. Cook 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.

    • Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.

  4. Combine:

    • Return seafood to the skillet. Gently stir to coat in sauce. Cook 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.

    • Finish with parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice.

  5. Serve:

    • Serve immediately over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread.

Notes & Tips

  • Seafood Tip: Dry the seafood thoroughly to get a nice sear; moisture will steam it instead.

  • Wine Substitute: Use seafood or chicken stock if avoiding alcohol.

  • Cream Option: Light cream or half-and-half can be used, but the sauce will be slightly less rich.

  • Make Ahead: Sauce can be prepared ahead; add seafood just before serving to avoid overcooking.

  • Extra Flavor: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne for a subtle kick.

Servings

  • 4 generous portions

Nutritional Info (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 410 kcal

  • Protein: 36 g

  • Fat: 28 g

  • Saturated Fat: 15 g

  • Carbohydrates: 6 g

  • Fiber: 1 g

  • Sugar: 1 g

  • Sodium: 560 mg

Benefits

  • High in Protein: Excellent for muscle repair and satiety.

  • Rich in Omega-3s: Seafood like shrimp and fish promote heart and brain health.

  • Garlic Boost: Contains antioxidants and supports immunity.

  • Calcium & Vitamins: Parmesan adds calcium and Vitamin A, while parsley provides Vitamin C.

Q&A

Q1: Can I use frozen seafood?
A: Yes, but thaw completely and pat dry to avoid watery skillet.

Q2: Can I make it spicy?
A: Absolutely! Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.

Q3: Can I skip the cream for a lighter version?
A: Yes, use coconut milk or a yogurt-based cream, but adjust seasoning to taste.

Q4: How do I prevent overcooking seafood?
A: Cook each type separately and briefly; seafood cooks quickly and continues cooking slightly in the hot sauce

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