Scallops with Herb Brown Butter over Creamy Polenta

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Golden-seared scallops, silky herb brown butter, and ultra-creamy polenta come together in this elegant yet approachable dish that feels like restaurant dining in your own kitchen. Each bite melts with buttery richness and finishes with fresh herbaceous flair. The textures are luxurious, but the technique is totally doable for any home cook.

This dish shines as a romantic dinner, special holiday main, or a showstopper at your next dinner party. The scallops are perfectly caramelized, the brown butter is infused with thyme and sage, and the creamy polenta offers a pillowy base that pulls it all together. It’s comfort food with a gourmet twist.

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What Kind of Scallops Should I Use?

Opt for dry sea scallops when you can. They caramelize beautifully and have a sweet, clean flavor. Avoid wet-packed scallops, which are treated with preservatives that make browning more difficult. Fresh or frozen both work—just make sure they’re fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.

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Ingredients for the Scallops with Herb Brown Butter over Creamy Polenta

For the Scallops:

• 1 pound dry sea scallops
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Herb Brown Butter:

• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh sage
• 1 small garlic clove, minced
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

For the Creamy Polenta:

• 1 cup polenta (coarse cornmeal)
• 4 cups water (or a mix of water and milk for extra creaminess)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

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How To Make the Scallops with Herb Brown Butter over Creamy Polenta

Step 1: Prepare the Creamy Polenta

Bring water and salt to a boil in a saucepan. Slowly whisk in the polenta, reducing heat to low. Stir frequently for 25-30 minutes until thick and creamy. Stir in butter and Parmesan. Cover and keep warm.

Step 2: Sear the Scallops

Pat scallops dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add scallops and sear undisturbed for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden with a crust. Transfer to a plate.

Step 3: Make the Herb Brown Butter

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and cook until it begins to brown and smells nutty, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in garlic, thyme, and sage. Cook for another 30 seconds, then remove from heat and stir in lemon juice.

Step 4: Plate and Serve

Spoon creamy polenta onto plates. Top with seared scallops and drizzle generously with herb brown butter. Serve immediately.

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How to Serve and Store Scallops with Herb Brown Butter over Creamy Polenta

Serve this dish immediately while the scallops are warm and the polenta is velvety. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or lemon zest for a bright touch.

To store leftovers, place scallops and polenta in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat polenta on the stove with a splash of water or milk, stirring until smooth. Scallops are best reheated gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain texture.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen scallops?

Yes, just be sure to thaw them completely and dry thoroughly to get that perfect sear.

What’s the difference between cornmeal and polenta?

Polenta is typically a coarser grind of cornmeal. Use coarse cornmeal labeled “polenta” for the best texture.

Can I substitute the butter?

For a dairy-free version, try using vegan butter or olive oil, though you’ll miss some of the brown butter nuttiness.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as all your ingredients (like Parmesan) are gluten-free.

Can I make the polenta ahead?

Absolutely. Cook the polenta ahead and reheat gently with a splash of liquid before serving.

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Want More Dinner Party-Worthy Ideas?

If you love the richness and elegance of this scallop dish, you’ll enjoy these other special meals:

• Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta for a rustic yet indulgent dinner.
• Marry Me Chicken Pasta with sun-dried tomatoes and cream.
• Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts if you’re into cozy, skillet-made comfort.
• Creamy Cajun Steak Alfredo for a bold flavor twist.
• Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini when you want pasta perfection.

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