There’s something unforgettable about serving a plate that looks and tastes like it came straight from a high-end dining room. Butter-Basted Lobster & Seared Scallops brings together two luxurious seafood favorites into one elegant dish that balances rich flavors, delicate textures, and stunning presentation. Whether you’re preparing a celebratory dinner or simply exploring gourmet cooking at home, mastering this recipe delivers both confidence and creativity in the kitchen.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Butter-Basted Lobster & Seared Scallops

For the Lobster

2 lobster tails
3 tbsp butter
2 cloves garlic, crushed
1 tsp lemon juice
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley (optional garnish)

For the Scallops

12 large sea scallops, patted dry
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter
Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Serving Additions

Lemon wedges
Steamed vegetables or rice
Light herb sauce or garlic butter drizzle

Equipment

Recommended Kitchen Tools

Heavy skillet (cast iron or stainless steel)
Tongs for handling seafood
Kitchen shears for lobster prep
Spoon for basting
Cutting board and sharp knife

How to Make Butter-Basted Lobster & Seared Scallops

Preparing Lobster for Butter Basting

Proper preparation ensures even cooking and appealing presentation.

Steps for Preparing Lobster Tails

Cut through shell using shears
Lift meat slightly above shell
Pat dry with paper towel
Season lightly

Presentation Technique

Gently rest meat atop shell
Creates elegant plated look
Allows butter to coat surface evenly

Preparing Scallops for the Perfect Sear

Scallops require careful handling for proper browning.

Key Preparation Points

Remove side muscle
Pat completely dry
Season immediately before cooking
Allow room temperature rest briefly

Why Drying Matters

Promotes golden crust
Prevents steaming
Enhances texture

This small step significantly affects results.

Crafting Aromatic Butter Mixtures

Butter is the defining element of this recipe.

Classic Garlic Herb Butter

Melt butter
Add garlic
Stir in herbs

Citrus Butter Variation

Incorporate lemon zest
Add squeeze of juice
Balance richness

Wine-Infused Butter

Deglaze pan
Reduce slightly
Emulsify with butter

Cooking Seared Scallops

The highlight of technique.

Step-by-Step Process

Heat skillet until hot
Add oil
Place scallops spaced apart
Sear without moving
Flip once browned
Add butter and baste

Success Tips

Avoid overcrowding
Maintain steady heat
Watch color development
Remove promptly

Cooking Butter-Basted Lobster

This process focuses on gentle heat and flavor infusion.

Method Overview

Warm pan with butter
Place lobster meat side down
Spoon butter continuously
Cook until opaque
Finish with aromatics

Technique Notes

Tilt pan for easy basting
Control heat carefully
Keep butter foaming not burning

Pairing and Serving Inspiration

Completing the plate creates balance.

Complementary Sides

Roasted vegetables
Creamy mashed potatoes
Herb rice

Serving Atmosphere Tips

Warm plates before serving
Use soft lighting
Coordinate table setting

Small touches enhance the occasion.

Creative Variations of Butter-Basted Lobster & Seared Scallops

Experimentation keeps cooking exciting.

Flavor Variations

Add chili butter
Incorporate smoked spices
Use herb crust

Technique Variations

Grill lobster
Broil finish
Sous-vide preparation

Each variation opens new creative paths.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Prevent frustration by anticipating pitfalls.

Overcrowding pan
Using low heat
Skipping drying step
Overcooking lobster
Burning butter

Storage and Reheating Guidance

Handling leftovers properly maintains texture.

Storage Tips

Refrigerate promptly
Use airtight container
Separate sauces

Reheating Suggestions

Gentle skillet warming
Avoid high heat
Add small butter amount

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know scallops are ready to flip?

Look for golden crust and natural release from pan.

Can frozen scallops be used?

Yes — thaw thoroughly and dry well.

Why did my scallops stick?

Pan temperature or moisture level likely caused it.

How can I improve butter basting?

Tilt pan and spoon continuously.

What’s the ideal lobster texture?

Tender and slightly firm without toughness.

Conclusion

Bringing Butter-Basted Lobster & Seared Scallops to your table is about more than preparing seafood — it’s about creating a memorable culinary moment built on technique, presentation, and attention to detail.

Butter-Basted Lobster & Seared Scallops Recipe

Author: Velma
Total Time: PT30M
Yield: 2 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Description

This Butter-Basted Lobster & Seared Scallops dish delivers restaurant-style elegance right at home. Tender lobster tails are basted in aromatic butter while scallops are seared to a golden crust, creating a luxurious seafood pairing rich in flavor and texture.

Instructions

Prepare the Lobster

Cut lobster shells lengthwise and gently lift meat above shell.
Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Melt butter in skillet over medium heat.
Add garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
Place lobster meat in skillet and baste continuously with butter.
Cook 5–7 minutes until opaque and tender.
Finish with lemon juice and parsley.

Sear the Scallops

Heat olive oil in another skillet until hot.
Season scallops with salt and pepper.
Place scallops flat-side down without crowding.
Sear 2–3 minutes until golden crust forms.
Flip, add butter, and cook another 1–2 minutes.
Remove once just opaque inside.

Plate & Serve

Arrange lobster and scallops together.
Spoon extra butter over seafood.
Serve with lemon wedges and sides of choice.

Notes

Dry scallops thoroughly for best sear.
Avoid overcooking lobster to keep it tender.
Use clarified butter for richer flavor.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT15M
Category: Seafood
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American-Inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 plated portion
Calories: 360 Kcal
Sodium: 520mg
Fat: 21 g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0.5g
Carbohydrates: 2g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 32g
Cholesterol: 165 mg