As I stood in my kitchen, the fragrant aroma of sizzling scallops wafted through the air, and I couldn’t help but feel a surge of excitement. Today, I’m sharing my favorite date-night meal: Lemon Butter Scallops Over Parmesan Risotto. This dish is as luxurious as it sounds, featuring lightly seared scallops drizzled in zesty lemon butter atop creamy, mushroom-infused risotto. With its rich, comforting flavors, this meal is perfect for those moments when you want to impress without the fuss of complicated recipes. Plus, it’s surprisingly quick to prepare, meaning you can enjoy a gourmet experience right at home. Are you ready to dive into a culinary adventure that will brighten up your dinner table? Let’s get cooking!

Why are scallops perfect for dinner?

Luxurious Appeal: This dish showcases plump, juicy scallops seared to perfection, elevating your dining experience to restaurant-quality without having to leave home.
Creamy Risotto: The mushroom-infused risotto creates a velvety texture that perfectly complements the tender scallops.
Zesty Flavor: With a bright lemon butter sauce, every bite bursts with freshness, making this meal unforgettable.
Quick Yet Impressive: Despite its elegant appearance, the recipe is simple enough to whip up on a weekday—ideal for impressing loved ones! Seek inspiration from similar flavors in Garlic Butter Shrimp for more delightful dinner ideas.
Versatile Dish: Easily adapt this recipe with variations, such as using shrimp or a vegetarian option with sautéed asparagus, to cater to everyone’s palate.

Lemon Butter Scallops Over Parmesan Risotto Ingredients

For the Scallops
• Jumbo Sea Scallops – The star of the dish, make sure to remove the side muscle for the best texture.
• Butter – Adds irresistible richness to both the scallops and the lemon sauce.
• Oil (for cooking) – Use a high smoke point oil like canola or grapeseed to achieve a perfect sear.
• Lemon – Fresh juice enhances the scallops with a zesty kick in the sauce.
• Minced Fresh Parsley – Provides a fresh garnish that brightens up the presentation.

For the Risotto
• Arborio or Carnaroli Rice – The short-grain rice critical for that creamy texture in your Lemon Butter Scallops Over Parmesan Risotto.
• Hot Chicken Broth or Vegetable Stock – Essential for cooking the risotto; warm broth helps maintain the cooking temperature.
• Mushrooms – Adds great texture and an earthy flavor; shiitake, baby bella, or oyster mushrooms work wonderfully.
• Shallots and Garlic – Aromatics that create a robust base flavor—don’t skip these!
• White Wine – For enhancing the flavor; if preferred, can be substituted with vegetable broth for a non-alcoholic option.
• Parmesan Cheese – Freshly grated is ideal to add a creamy depth to the risotto.

Feel free to gather your ingredients and let the culinary magic begin with this exquisite recipe!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Lemon Butter Scallops Over Parmesan Risotto

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
In a large, non-stick skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add 1 minced shallot and 2 minced garlic cloves, sautéing until fragrant and softened, about 2-3 minutes. The mixture should be translucent and aromatic; this foundation will enhance the rich flavor of your Lemon Butter Scallops Over Parmesan Risotto.

Step 2: Cook the Mushrooms
Next, stir in 1 cup of chopped mushrooms and sauté for another 3 minutes, allowing the mushrooms to soften and release their moisture. Keep the heat at medium so they become tender, resulting in a deliciously earthy flavor that complements your risotto. Once they’re slightly golden, you’re ready to add the rice.

Step 3: Toast the Rice
Add 1 cup of Arborio rice to the skillet, stirring well to coat the grains with the buttery mixture. Toast the rice for about 1-2 minutes, until you see the edges of the grains starting to look translucent. This step develops a nutty flavor essential for the creamy Lemon Butter Scallops Over Parmesan Risotto.

Step 4: Deglaze with Wine
Pour in ½ cup of white wine, allowing it to simmer for about 1 minute until nearly absorbed. Stir continuously to prevent sticking and enhance the depth of flavor. Once the wine evaporates, your risotto will start to come together, making it the perfect base for your scallops.

Step 5: Gradually Add Broth
Begin adding 3-4 cups of hot chicken broth, ½ cup at a time, stirring after each addition until the liquid is absorbed. Continue this process for about 18-20 minutes until the rice is creamy and al dente. The stirring is key for that luxurious texture in your Lemon Butter Scallops Over Parmesan Risotto, so be patient!

Step 6: Stir in Cheese and Herbs
Once the rice reaches the desired creaminess, stir in ½ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and ¼ cup of minced fresh parsley. The cheese adds richness, while the parsley introduces freshness. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper; your risotto is now ready to serve.

Step 7: Prepare the Scallops
While your risotto cooks, rinse and thoroughly pat dry 1 pound of jumbo sea scallops using paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Heat a splash of high smoke point oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 2 minutes—this will give your scallops a perfect sear.

Step 8: Sear the Scallops
Carefully place the scallops in the hot skillet without overcrowding; sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until a golden crust develops. Look for a slight caramelization on each scallop. Once perfectly seared, transfer the scallops to a plate and keep warm while you make the lemon butter sauce.

Step 9: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, and a sprinkle of minced parsley. Stir until the butter melts, and you see a beautiful, glossy sauce forming—this zesty addition will elevate your scallops, perfect for topping your risotto.

Step 10: Combine and Serve
Return the scallops to the skillet, gently basting them with the lemon butter sauce for about 1 minute. Plate generous servings of the creamy Parmesan risotto, then top with the golden scallops and drizzle extra sauce. Garnish with lemon wedges and parsley for a vibrant finishing touch to your Lemon Butter Scallops Over Parmesan Risotto!

How to Store and Freeze Lemon Butter Scallops Over Parmesan Risotto

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This helps maintain the flavor and texture, so enjoy this seafood delight while fresh.

Freezer: It’s best to freeze the scallops and risotto separately, as the creamy risotto may not hold up well. Place cooled risotto in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheating: Thaw scallops in the fridge overnight, and reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a little butter to restore their flavor. Warm risotto gently on the stove with a splash of broth, stirring often until creamy.

Leftover Tips: Keep in mind that this Lemon Butter Scallops Over Parmesan Risotto is best served fresh for the ultimate taste experience.

Make Ahead Options

These Lemon Butter Scallops Over Parmesan Risotto are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the risotto base up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the recipe instructions until Step 6, then let it cool and refrigerate in an airtight container. The scallops can be prepped by cleaning and seasoning them; just store them in the fridge as well. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the risotto gently over medium heat, adding a splash of broth to restore creaminess, then cook the scallops in a hot skillet as directed in Step 7. This way, you’ll enjoy a delightful meal that’s just as delicious and impressively easy on busy weeknights!

What to Serve with Lemon Butter Scallops Over Parmesan Risotto

Looking to build a delectable meal around your festive scallops? Here are some delightful pairings that will elevate your dining experience.

Garlic Bread: Crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, garlic bread perfectly complements the creaminess of the risotto, making every bite even more satisfying.
Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with tangy vinaigrette offers a light contrast to the richness of the scallops and risotto, balancing the meal beautifully.
Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears seasoned with lemon zest enhance the citrus notes in your dish while adding a pop of color on your plate.
Sautéed Spinach: This bright, vibrant side adds a boost of nutrients and a fragrant earthy touch that pairs well with the lemony scallops.
Chardonnay: A crisp glass of Chardonnay elevates the meal with its fruit notes, enhancing the seafood flavors while harmonizing with the buttery richness.
Lemon Sorbet: Refreshing and light, a scoop of lemon sorbet serves as a delightful interlude between the rich flavors, cleansing the palate for the next savory bite.

Each of these options is designed to create a well-rounded meal, ensuring your Lemon Butter Scallops Over Parmesan Risotto shines even brighter!

Expert Tips for Lemon Butter Scallops Over Parmesan Risotto

Warm Broth: Ensure your chicken broth is hot when adding to the risotto. Cold broth can cause the rice to cook unevenly and compromise creaminess.
Perfectly Sear Scallops: Pat the scallops dry thoroughly; moisture leads to steaming rather than a beautiful sear. Achieving that golden crust enhances both flavor and presentation.
Slow and Steady: Don’t rush the risotto! Adding too much liquid at once can result in a grainy texture instead of the creamy consistency essential for Lemon Butter Scallops Over Parmesan Risotto.
Last-Minute Cheese: Add Parmesan cheese at the end of cooking to keep its flavor vibrant and avoid clumping; this makes your risotto richer and more delicious.
Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning while cooking; seasoning in stages helps build layers of flavor that will elevate your dish. Don’t be afraid to tweak it to suit your taste!
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and parsley truly make a difference. Their brightness enhances the overall taste and presentation of the dish.

Lemon Butter Scallops Over Parmesan Risotto Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Lemon Butter Scallops Over Parmesan Risotto, using these delightful tweaks to enhance your dish!

Seafood Swap: Replace scallops with shrimp or lobster for a deliciously different seafood experience, keeping that luxurious taste intact.
Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk instead of butter and Parmesan for a creamy, dairy-free version without sacrificing flavor.
Vegetarian Delight: Swap scallops for sautéed asparagus or vibrant spinach; the earthy flavors will still shine with the lemon butter.
Flavor Boost: Add a splash of cream to the risotto for extra richness, enhancing the texture and flavor in every bite.
Grain Variation: Utilize quinoa or farro instead of Arborio rice for a healthy twist—these grains will lend a nutty profile to your dish.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or thyme for a fragrant lift; just stir them in during the final moments of cooking.
Spicy Kick: Crank up the heat by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the lemon butter sauce for an exciting flavor contrast.
Mushroom Medley: Mix different mushrooms like shiitake, portobello, or chanterelles to deepen the earthy notes in your risotto and pair wonderfully with scallops.

For even more delightful ideas, check out my recipes for Garlic Butter Shrimp that will have you excited about dinner!

Lemon Butter Scallops Over Parmesan Risotto Recipe FAQs

What are the best scallops to use for this dish?
Absolutely! Look for jumbo sea scallops as they are the best choice for this recipe. When purchasing, ensure they are fresh and have a slightly sweet smell of the ocean. Avoid scallops that are sticky or have a strong fishy odor, as these might not be very fresh. Also, make sure the side muscle is removed for optimal texture and flavor.

How should I store leftovers of the Lemon Butter Scallops Over Parmesan Risotto?
The risotto is best enjoyed fresh, but if you find yourself with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop with a splash of broth to restore its creamy texture—just be careful not to let it dry out!

Can I freeze Lemon Butter Scallops Over Parmesan Risotto?
Very! It’s best to freeze the components separately for best quality. The scallops will lose their texture if frozen, so opt to freeze the risotto alone. Place cooled risotto in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the risotto in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring with a little broth for creaminess.

What should I do if my risotto is too dry?
Don’t worry, it happens to the best of us! If your risotto is too dry while cooking, simply add a little extra hot broth, about ½ cup at a time, and continue stirring. This will help loosen it up back to that creamy texture you’re aiming for. Remember, risotto is forgiving, but patience in the cooking process is key—just keep stirring gently until you reach perfection!

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely! This dish is seafood-centric, so anyone with seafood allergies should avoid it. If you’d like to make it non-dairy, consider omitting the Parmesan or using a dairy-free alternative. Additionally, it’s wise to check ingredients like broth for allergens if you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions. For a vegetarian version, you can replace scallops with sautéed vegetables like asparagus or spinach.

How long do I need to cook the risotto?
Cooking the risotto takes about 18-20 minutes. It may seem tedious, but don’t rush it! Add your hot broth gradually, about ½ cup at a time, stirring frequently. This will help develop that signature creamy texture crucial for your Lemon Butter Scallops Over Parmesan Risotto. Trust the process, and enjoy the aromatic journey!