Scallops with Champagne Sauce

Name: Scallops with Champagne Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 1 pound large sea scallops; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup champagne or sparkling wine; Salt and black pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Authentic Ideas

I absolutely love preparing scallops with champagne sauce for a special dinner, and it's become a go-to dish for celebrating moments. The combination of tender, perfectly seared scallops with a decadent, creamy champagne sauce is simply irresistible. Each time I make this dish, I am struck by how the flavors meld beautifully, creating a luxurious experience. It's surprisingly straightforward to prepare, yet it feels so elegant, making it ideal for impressing guests or indulging in a cozy night at home.

Created by

Adriana Whitaker

Last updated on 2026-01-08T15:03:38.039Z

When I first tried making scallops with champagne sauce, I was amazed at how quickly this dish came together. The key is to have everything prepped, as scallops cook rapidly. I usually choose large sea scallops, as their size adds to the luxurious presentation on the plate.

Pairing the scallops with a bubbly champagne cream sauce elevates the taste, and I love adding a splash of lemon juice for brightness. It’s a delightful surprise for guests, and they always ask for the recipe. Trust me, once you master this dish, it will become your favorite as well!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy champagne sauce adds a luxurious touch
Perfectly seared scallops are a crowd-pleaser
Quick and elegant dish for any special occasion

      

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients

1 pound large sea scallops
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup champagne or sparkling wine
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Ensure you have everything ready for a smooth cooking process.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious scallops with champagne sauce:

Sear the Scallops

Pat the scallops dry with paper towels and season them with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the scallops, cooking for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Prepare the Champagne Sauce

In the same skillet, add the champagne and allow it to simmer for 2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and lemon juice, allowing it to thicken for 3-4 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Return the scallops to the pan, carefully coating them in the sauce. Let them warm for a minute before transferring to plates. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Enjoy your gourmet scallops with champagne sauce!

Pro Tips

For the best results, do not overcrowd the pan when searing scallops. This will ensure they get that beautiful, caramelized crust.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of alcohol?

Yes, you can substitute the champagne with white wine or a non-alcoholic sparkling beverage.

→ How do I know when scallops are cooked?

Scallops are done when they become opaque and have a golden crust on the outside, usually taking about 2-3 minutes per side.

→ What should I serve with scallops?

Scallops pair well with a light salad, garlic bread, or over a bed of risotto.

→ Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

While it’s best fresh, you can prepare the sauce earlier and reheat it gently before adding the scallops.