Creamy Rice with Scallops is a luxurious yet simple dish that combines tender, perfectly seared scallops with a velvety, creamy rice base. The delicate sweetness of the scallops complements the richness of the rice, making this a dish that feels indulgent yet light. The creamy texture of the rice, often made with a blend of cream and butter, pairs wonderfully with the mild, succulent scallops for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for special occasions or a cozy dinner at home.
I first made this dish when I wanted to create something elegant without spending too much time in the kitchen. The scallops, when seared just right, developed a beautiful caramelized crust while remaining tender on the inside. The creamy rice was the perfect backdrop, providing a base that soaked up the flavors from the scallops and the sauce.
What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can add herbs like parsley or thyme for extra depth, or squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the top for a bright contrast. The creamy rice can also be made with different variations, such as adding Parmesan for a cheesy twist. Creamy Rice with Scallops is a dish that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly easy to make, perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to something special!
Perfect for:
- Elegant dinners
- Special occasions
- Date nights
- Seafood lovers
- Holiday meals
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are 10 reasons why Creamy Rice with Scallops will quickly become one of your favorite meals:
- Luxurious Flavor: The rich creaminess of the rice and the delicate taste of scallops create an unforgettable flavor combination.
- Impressive Presentation: Serve this dish as the centerpiece of any elegant meal, and it will surely wow your guests.
- Perfectly Tender Scallops: The scallops are seared to golden perfection, adding a delicious depth of flavor.
- Rich and Creamy Rice: The creamy rice, cooked with butter and broth, creates a comforting texture that complements the scallops perfectly.
- Quick and Easy: This dish can be made in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight or last-minute dinner party.
- Versatile: Serve as a main dish, or pair it with a light salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Make-Ahead Option: The creamy rice can be prepared in advance and then reheated, saving you time during the meal.
- Seafood Lover’s Dream: If you’re a fan of seafood, this recipe is a must-try with its tender scallops and savory rice.
- Customizable: Add herbs, spices, or vegetables to personalize the dish to your taste.
- Decadent yet Simple: Despite its richness, this dish is simple enough to make for any occasion.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 20g, Carbs: 30g, Fat: 18g
Ingredients
For the Creamy Rice:
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 ½ cups chicken or vegetable broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Scallops:
- 12 large sea scallops
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges
Ingredient Highlights
- Arborio Rice: Its starchy texture makes it ideal for creating creamy, rich risotto-like dishes.
- Sea Scallops: Sweet, delicate, and tender, they’re the star of this dish.
- Heavy Cream: Adds richness and depth to the rice, turning it into a decadent side dish.
- Parmesan Cheese: Enhances the creaminess and adds a savory, umami flavor to the rice.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Creamy Rice:
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
- Cook the Rice: Add Arborio rice to the pan and stir to coat the rice in the butter. Cook for 2 minutes until the rice is slightly toasted.
- Add Broth: Gradually add chicken or vegetable broth, ½ cup at a time, stirring constantly and allowing the liquid to absorb before adding more. Continue until the rice is tender and creamy, about 18-20 minutes.
- Finish the Rice: Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm while preparing the scallops.
Cook the Scallops:
- Prepare the Scallops: Pat the scallops dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper.
- Sear the Scallops: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the scallops and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Be careful not to overcook them.
- Serve: Remove the scallops from the skillet and set aside.
Assemble the Dish:
- Plate the Rice: Spoon the creamy rice onto plates.
- Add Scallops: Arrange the seared scallops on top of the rice.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for a burst of freshness.
How to Serve
Here are 9 serving suggestions for Creamy Rice with Scallops:
- As a Main Course: Serve the creamy rice and scallops as the centerpiece of a seafood meal.
- With a Green Salad: Pair the dish with a fresh green salad for a light, refreshing contrast.
- For Special Occasions: Perfect for dinner parties, anniversaries, or holiday meals.
- With Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus or Brussels sprouts make a great side dish for this meal.
- With Crusty Bread: Serve with a loaf of crusty bread to soak up the creamy rice.
- As a Light Lunch: Make a smaller portion for a sophisticated and satisfying lunch.
- With Lemon Butter Sauce: For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle the scallops with a lemon butter sauce.
- With Grilled Shrimp: For a mixed seafood platter, add grilled shrimp alongside the scallops.
- As a Pre-Dinner Appetizer: Serve smaller portions of the rice and scallops as a decadent appetizer.
Additional Tips
- Don’t Overcook the Scallops: Scallops cook quickly, and overcooking can make them tough.
- Stir the Rice Constantly: Stirring helps release the rice’s starch, creating a creamy texture.
- Customize the Rice: Add herbs like thyme or rosemary to the rice for added flavor.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the rice or scallops for a little heat.
- Serve Immediately: Scallops are best enjoyed right after cooking to retain their tender texture.
Recipe Variations
- Lemon Herb Scallops: Marinate the scallops in lemon juice and fresh herbs before searing.
- Spicy Scallops: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the scallops for a spicy kick.
- Vegan Version: Use plant-based cream and vegetable broth for a vegan alternative.
- Garlic Butter Sauce: Serve the scallops with a garlic butter sauce for extra richness.
- Vegetable Additions: Stir in sautéed spinach, peas, or mushrooms for more texture and flavor in the rice.
- Crispy Scallops: Coat the scallops in panko breadcrumbs before searing for a crispy texture.
Special Equipment
- Skillet: For searing the scallops perfectly.
- Medium Saucepan: For cooking the creamy rice.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: For stirring the rice.
- Sharp Knife: For cutting the scallops into bite-sized pieces if desired.
FAQ Section
- Can I use frozen scallops?
Yes, you can use frozen scallops. Be sure to thaw them thoroughly and pat them dry before cooking. - How long do leftovers last?
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days in an airtight container. - Can I use a different type of rice?
Arborio rice is recommended for its creamy texture, but you can substitute with another short-grain rice. - Can I make the rice ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the rice ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. - How do I know when the scallops are done?
Scallops are done when they are opaque in the center and firm to the touch. - Can I make this dish without cream?
Yes, you can use milk or a dairy-free alternative for a lighter version. - What’s the best way to cook scallops?
The best way is to sear them in a hot pan with butter and oil for a crispy golden exterior and tender interior. - Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe to serve more people, just be sure to cook the scallops in batches. - What can I substitute for Parmesan?
You can use Pecorino Romano or any other hard cheese you prefer. - Can I add vegetables to the rice?
Absolutely! You can add peas, spinach, or mushrooms to the rice for extra flavor and color.
Conclusion
Creamy Rice with Scallops is a luxurious, comforting dish that pairs tender, seared scallops with a velvety, rich rice base. The combination of sweet, succulent scallops and the creamy, savory rice creates an elegant yet easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for special occasions or a delicious weeknight treat.
The magic of this recipe lies in the smooth, creamy texture of the rice, which is cooked with a bit of butter, garlic, and Parmesan for added richness. The scallops, seared to golden perfection, add a touch of sweetness and depth of flavor. This dish is topped off with a hint of lemon zest and fresh herbs for brightness and balance.
I’d love to see your Creamy Rice with Scallops creations! Share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I can’t wait to see your deliciously elegant dishes. Don’t forget to leave a comment and tell me how you made this recipe your own with your favorite spices or sides!