Take your seafood game to the next level with this delicious recipe for Garlic Butter Grilled Shrimp and Scallops. Perfect for a summer barbecue or a fancy dinner at home!
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It’s one of those golden evenings — kids laughing (or bickering, let’s be honest), dogs snoozing like they ran a marathon (they didn’t), and you’ve got a glass of something cold in hand. The grill’s going strong, and oh boy, does it smell good.
On there? A cast iron skillet loaded with juicy grilled shrimp and scallops, getting that perfect little char with a hit of garlic and butter. Looks fancy, right? But here’s the secret — it’s crazy simple. Toss it together, grill it quick, and boom — dinner’s done and everyone’s impressed. Serve over some garlic spaghetti or lemon pasta and you have a meal everyone will love!
Jump to:
Why Choose Shrimp and Scallops?
Whether you’re a seafood lover, or open minded to trying new things, you may be wondering why you should try this recipe. Here are some perks of this shrimp scallop dinner:
- Healthy– both shrimp and scallops are great sources of protein without the added fat. The healthy fats they do have (Omega-3 fatty acids) support heart and brain health making them a great choice for everyone.
- Quick– only needing a few minutes of cook time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknight dinners or hosting.
- Easy Pairings– this seafood dinner pairs perfectly with pasta, rice, grilled vegetables, crusty bread, or a fresh salad to make it a complete meal.
- Versatile Flavor Options– although this recipe is for garlic butter, you can easily customize the seasonings from zesty lemon garlic to a bold Cajun. So many options available.
Ingredient Notes
Below is a brief overview of each ingredient needed to make this scallop shrimp recipe. To see printable recipe card with exact amounts and step by step directions, scroll to the bottom of this post or click the “jump to recipe” button at the top.
- Scallops-I use smaller bay scallops since that is what was available to me, however large sea scallops will work great too! Like shrimp, you may use fresh or frozen scallops for this recipe. Thaw them along with the shrimp, if using from frozen.
- Shrimp– I recommend using large shrimp. You can use fresh or frozen shrimp – frozen shrimp thaws quickly under cold water, or you can take it out of the freezer and thaw in the fridge the night before.
- Butter– salted butter is best since it adds the most flavor. If using unsalted butter, add in a bit of salt to taste.
- Garlic– fresh minced garlic is best, however, pre-minced garlic in the jar is a great time saver.
Selecting the best Seafood
Choosing Quality Shrimp
When picking shrimp, fresh vs. frozen really depends on what’s available, but frozen shrimp are usually frozen right after being caught, so they can be just as fresh. Look for shrimp that’s firm, translucent, and smells like the ocean (not funky). Shrimp sizes are labeled like 16/20, meaning you’ll get 16 to 20 shrimp per pound. Bigger ones (like 8/12) are great for grilling because they won’t fall apart as easily. As for deveining and peeling, it’s all about making them easier to eat and look nicer. The vein isn’t super tasty, and peeling them saves you the messy work—though you can leave the shells on for more flavor while grilling!
Choosing Quality Scallops
Sea scallops are the big, meaty ones—perfect for grilling, while bay scallops are smaller, sweeter, and better for pastas or salads. When you’re picking scallops, go for dry ones (no added preservatives) for grilling. They’ll sear beautifully without releasing a bunch of water. Wet scallops can get soggy and won’t brown as nicely. As for freshness, fresh scallops should be plump, firm, and a little translucent, with that sweet, ocean-y smell (not fishy!). They should feel moist, but not slimy—basically, you want them to scream “fresh!
Making this Garlic Butter Shrimp Scallop Recipe
Rinse scallops/shrimp and thaw if frozen. PRO TIP: pat dry with paper towel to reduce excess moisture. In a large skillet or cast iron pan over medium high heat, melt the butter.
Add in the garlic and allow to cook for 1 minute.
Add in the scallop/shrimps to the skillet and cook about 3-4 minutes, or until slightly golden brown.
Remove from heat and serve garnished with some fresh Parsley! You can also use the grill over medium heat, same directions.
Storing Leftovers
Once the shrimp scallops mixture has fully cooled, place in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 3 days. If you want to freeze them, place in a freezer bag or container up to 3 months. To reheat, place them in a skillet or in the microwave until just heated through as you don’t want them overcooked. You can add in a little extra butter or a splash of lemon juice to give them more moisture.
Serving Suggestions
If you’re looking for recipes to pair with this shrimp and scallops recipe, you could try my Cheesy Zucchini Casserole, Grilled Seasoned Carrots, Crispy Parmesan Brussel Sprouts, or Black Angus Garlic Bread. We love our seafood served over spaghetti or cooked rice and my kids love adding some grated Parmesan cheese on top. If you’re looking for a little extra spice, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top just before serving.
More Seafood Recipes to try
Shrimp and Vegetable Stir Fry– looking for a tasty and healthy dinner option? Try this easy sheet pan Shrimp and Vegetable Stir Fry recipe that’s packed with flavor and nutrients. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal!
Lemon Garlic Salmon– a delicious meal that comes together in no time and is packed with flavor! Packed with protein, this will be a hit with everyone!
Shrimp Enchiladas– cheesy, creamy, and come together in no time! A Tex Mex staple that has been turned into good ole comfort food at its finest!
Parmesan Crusted Salmon– delicious and easy-to-make Parmesan Crusted Salmon with mayo is the perfect dish for a quick and tasty dinner. Tender, flaky salmon, with a crispy crust, this dish is sure to be a favorite!
Cajun Baked Cod– this Cajun Baked Cod comes together using only 5 ingredients and in under 20 minutes! Tender, flaky fish with a flavorful Cajun sauce drizzled on top!
Old Fashioned Salmon Patties– looking for a classic comfort food recipe? Try this delicious Old Fashioned Salmon Patties recipe that has been passed down for generations. Light, crispy, and perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal!
This Shrimp and Scallops Recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor—perfect for impressing guests or treating the family. Simple steps, tasty pairings, and dinner’s done!
Give it a try—you’ll be hooked! 🎣🦐
Pin it now, grill it later! 🔥🍋 From my grill to yours—enjoy! 👩🍳💛
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Garlic Butter Grilled Shrimp and Scallops Recipe
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 lb scallops, fresh or frozen
- ½ lb shrimp (deveined)
- 2 tablespoon butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
- Rinse scallops/shrimp and thaw if frozen.
- In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add in the garlic and allow to cook for 1 minute.
- Add in the scallop/shrimps to the skillet and cook about 3-4 minutes, or until slightly golden brown.
- Remove from heat and serve!
Sharon says
This sounds so good! I can’t wait to try it! Ignore negative people! Lololol
Kristin says
Haha! Thanks! It really is tasty!!
Mel says
Kristen,
Thank you so much for sharing this recipe! So good and so simple like food should be
Sorry about Jess’s comment. Seriously should be a concern for someone that is full of hate and superiority like that.
Bless you for your website and bless you family.
Have a super fantastic
day
Kristin says
Awww thanks! Glad you enjoyed the recipe!!
Jess says
Is this cooking for 3 year olds?? If you chose to not use herbs or spices fine. But you don’t even blot the seafood dry?
Sorry. Your post wasn’t worthy of posting. Unless you live on hot dogs
Kristin says
LOL! Thanks….I think? This is simply an easy OPTION for people to try if they are in the mood for scallops and shrimp. Lots enjoy it, but of course, they can easily make it their own by adding herbs and spices.
Janet says
Did you sea scallops or bay scallops
Kristin says
I typically use bay scallops, but either work in this recipe!
Stephen Whelan says
Great tasty dinner dish. Served over wild long grain rice. Will also be good over pasta. Used Old Bay Seasoning instead of salt and pepper. Bringing this recipe to the beach!
Kristin says
Great idea serving over rice!! Glad to hear you enjoyed it!
Linda Kozak says
did you also you use fresh or frozen shrimp havent tried i
this yet but will when l find out l hope its frozen pre cooked shrimp as l cant bring myself to handle anything with legs
Kristin says
I have tried both, but typically, I use previously frozen sold behind the counter at my grocery store! Enjoy!