Gordon Ramsay Scallop Recipe

This Gordon Ramsay inspired scallop recipe is all about simplicity, precision, and flavour. Sweet, tender scallops are pan-seared until golden, then finished with butter for a rich, restaurant-style result. It is surprisingly quick and beginner-friendly once you understand the timing, making it ideal for a special starter or light main. From start to finish, it takes around 15 minutes.

Ingredients

For the Scallops

• 8 large king scallops, roe removed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 25g unsalted butter
• 1 garlic clove, lightly crushed
• Sea salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper

To Serve (Optional)

• Pea purée or crushed peas
• Lemon wedges
• Fresh herbs such as parsley or chives

How to Make Gordon Ramsay Scallop Recipe

• Prepare the scallops: Pat the scallops completely dry with kitchen paper. This is essential for achieving a good golden crust. Season lightly with salt and pepper just before cooking.
• Heat the pan: Place a heavy-based frying pan over high heat. Add the olive oil and allow it to get very hot, almost smoking.
• Sear the scallops: Carefully place the scallops into the pan, spacing them apart. Cook for 1½ to 2 minutes on the first side without moving them.
• Add butter and garlic: Turn the scallops over, add the butter and crushed garlic, and reduce the heat slightly. Spoon the melted butter over the scallops for about 1 minute.
• Check doneness: The scallops should be golden on the outside and just opaque in the centre. Remove immediately to prevent overcooking.
• Serve straight away: Spoon over a little of the buttery pan juices and finish with a squeeze of lemon if liked.

Tips for Perfect Scallops

Why are my scallops not browning?

This usually means the pan is not hot enough or the scallops were too wet. Always dry them thoroughly and preheat the pan properly.

How do I avoid rubbery scallops?

Overcooking is the main cause. Scallops only need a couple of minutes per side. As soon as they turn opaque, they are ready.

Should I season before or after cooking?

Light seasoning just before cooking works best. Salting too early can draw out moisture and stop proper browning.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve over pea purée for a classic pairing
• Pair with a light salad and crusty bread
• Add to pasta or risotto for an elegant main course

Storage

Room Temperature

Scallops are best eaten immediately and should not be left out for more than 1 hour.

Refrigerator

Store cooked scallops in an airtight container for up to 24 hours, though texture will soften.

Freezing

Freezing cooked scallops is not recommended, as they become rubbery when reheated.

Nutrition

• Calories: 180 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Protein: 22g
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Sodium: 320mg

Nutrition values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredients used.

FAQs

Gordon Ramsay Scallop Recipe

Recipe by Alex TurnerCourse: StarterCuisine: BritishDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Total time

1

hour 

10

minutes

Perfectly pan-seared scallops inspired by Gordon Ramsay, finished with butter and garlic for a simple yet elegant dish.

Ingredients

• 8 large king scallops

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 25g unsalted butter

• 1 garlic clove, crushed

• Sea salt

• Black pepper

Directions

• Pat scallops dry and season lightly.
• Heat oil in a hot pan until smoking.
• Sear scallops for 2 minutes on one side.
• Turn, add butter and garlic, and baste briefly.
• Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

• Do not overcrowd the pan.
• Serve immediately for best texture.