Savory Maple Glazed Seared Scallops

Name: Savory Maple Glazed Seared Scallops
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound sea scallops; 2 tablespoons maple syrup; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Meals

I absolutely love making Savory Maple Glazed Seared Scallops for special occasions or simply when I want to impress my family. The combination of sweet maple syrup with the savory notes of garlic and butter creates a luxurious sauce that perfectly complements the tender, perfectly seared scallops. I can't get enough of the contrast between the crispy edges of the scallops and their succulent centers. This dish not only tastes divine, but it also comes together in just minutes, making it a go-to recipe for both weeknight dinners and festive gatherings.

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2026-01-22T11:05:28.330Z

When I first made these scallops, I was blown away by how quickly they cooked and how much flavor they packed. Searing scallops is all about high heat and timing—it’s crucial not to overcrowd the pan to get that beautiful caramelization. I found that using a cast iron skillet made a significant difference in achieving the perfect sear.

Alongside the scallops, I like to serve them with a light salad or some sautéed greens to balance the richness of the maple glaze. The combination of textures and flavors truly elevates this dish to a restaurant-quality experience right at home!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Mouthwatering sweetness from maple syrup that enhances the scallops
Quick cooking time that makes this a perfect weeknight meal
Elegant presentation that's sure to impress guests

Mastering the Perfect Sear

Achieving that perfect sear on your scallops is paramount for a dish that looks as good as it tastes. Start by ensuring your scallops are thoroughly dried; moisture can prevent the Maillard reaction from occurring, resulting in a less desirable texture. When you place the scallops in the hot skillet, listen for a satisfying sizzle. This sound indicates that the heat is adequately high, creating a beautiful golden crust. If you notice water pooling in the pan, the heat might be too low, or the scallops may have been too wet.

Patience is key when searing. Avoid flipping the scallops too soon; let them cook undisturbed for about 2-3 minutes on each side. Watch for the edges to turn golden brown. If they stick to the pan, give them more time; this is a sign that they aren’t ready to flip. Use a thin spatula to gently lift a corner to check for doneness. Once they are perfectly seared, the scallops should have a crisp exterior while remaining tender within.

Balancing Flavors in the Maple Glaze

The unique charm of this recipe lies in the balance of sweet and savory flavors. The maple syrup not only brings a delightful sweetness but also enhances the natural brininess of the scallops. If maple syrup isn’t available, honey can be a great alternative, though it may lend a different flavor profile. Similarly, adjusting the ratio of garlic can tailor the dish to your taste. For added depth, consider using roasted garlic instead of raw; this will provide a milder, sweeter taste that blends beautifully with the maple.

To prevent the glaze from becoming too sticky or over-sweetened, add a splash of fresh lemon juice toward the end of cooking. The acidity will cut the sweetness and elevate the overall flavor complexity. Just a teaspoon or two can brighten the dish dramatically without overpowering the delicate scallops. Stir gently to incorporate the flavors and avoid breaking the scallops apart during this step.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a delightful dish of Savory Maple Glazed Seared Scallops:

Ingredients

1 pound sea scallops
2 tablespoons maple syrup
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

With all your ingredients ready, you're set to make this delicious dish!

Instructions

Follow these steps to perfectly sear your scallops:

Prepare Scallops

Pat the scallops dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.

Heat the Pan

Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add the butter. Allow it to melt and foam.

Sear the Scallops

Add the scallops to the skillet in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd. Sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Add Maple Glaze

Reduce the heat, add the minced garlic and maple syrup, stirring gently until the scallops are well coated.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with your choice of sides.

Enjoy your beautifully seared scallops with their savory glaze!

Pro Tips

For the best results, ensure your scallops are dry before cooking to achieve a perfect sear. If the scallops are wet, they will steam instead of sear, losing that desired crust.

Make-Ahead Tips

While scallops are best when cooked fresh, you can prepare some components in advance to save time during your gathering. The maple glaze can be made up to three days ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Before using, warm it gently on the stove to liquefy and dissolve any solidified portions. Just be cautious not to boil it to maintain the syrup's flavors.

Another tip is to prep your scallops for cooking. If you purchase frozen scallops, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and dry them well before searing. You can also season them lightly with salt and pepper beforehand. This way, on the day of serving, all you have to do is heat your skillet and sear the scallops for an impressive, last-minute dish.

Serving Suggestions

Savory Maple Glazed Seared Scallops can be paired beautifully with a variety of sides. For a vibrant plate, consider serving them atop a bed of creamy risotto infused with citrus zest or alongside sautéed asparagus. The freshness of vegetables complements the rich flavors of the scallops, while the creaminess of risotto adds a satisfying contrast.

For a more casual setting, serving the scallops as sliders with a light, herb-infused mayonnaise on mini brioche buns can be a creative twist. This transforms a classic dish into a fun finger food option, perfect for entertaining guests. Don’t forget to drizzle any remaining maple glaze over your creations to keep that delightful sweetness!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen scallops?

Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and dry them well before cooking.

→ What can I serve with scallops?

Scallops pair well with light salads, pasta, or sautéed vegetables.

→ How do I know when scallops are done?

Scallops should be opaque and firm to the touch; they should cook quickly, usually within 5-6 minutes.

→ Can I substitute the maple syrup?

Honey can be used as a substitute, but it will change the flavor profile slightly.