Steak and Scallops Dinner

Name: Steak and Scallops Dinner
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 pieces ribeye steaks (Choose high-quality ribeye for best results.); 1 tablespoon olive oil (For cooking the steaks.); to taste grams salt (Essential for flavor enhancement.); to taste grams pepper (Freshly cracked is preferred.); 8 pieces scallops (Use fresh if possible; frozen is acceptable.); 1 tablespoon olive oil (For cooking the scallops.); 2 tablespoons butter (Adds richness to the sauce.); 2 cloves garlic (Minced for flavor.); 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (Chopped for garnish.)

Posted on October 27, 2025

Beautifully plated Steak and Scallops dinner on a stylish dining table.

Dinner Ideas

Easy Steak and Scallops Dinner: A Delightful High-Protein Meal

Ah, steak and scallops. Just saying those words makes my mouth water. This easy weeknight dinner has become quite the staple in my household, and let me tell you, it’s not just because of the protein-packed punch it packs—it’s the memories woven into every bite. Picture this: candlelight flickering on the table, soft music playing in the background, and the aroma of seared steak wafting through the air—honestly, what could be better?

I remember my first attempt at cooking steak. Spoiler alert: it wasn’t red-carpet worthy. I ended up with a piece of meat so tough even my dog wouldn’t touch it. But my love for cooking kept pulling me back into the kitchen, one glorious failure at a time. Fast forward to today, and what was once a battle of man against meat has turned into a beautiful partnership. This recipe holds a special spot in my heart, merging simplicity with a touch of gourmet (who doesn’t want their nightly dinner to feel a bit fancy?).

On cozy nights when I want to impress but also keep things low-maintenance, this steak and scallops dish shines. The scallops, sweet and buttery, perfectly complement the juicy ribeye steak, creating a comforting and elevated meal worthy of celebrations—or a Tuesday night at home. We’re talking about an easy high-protein meal that feels indulgent without the fuss!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy Preparation: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, this meal is a culinary hug. You’ll find yourself whipping it up on weeknights like it’s second nature!
Balanced Flavors: The rich, meaty flavor from the ribeye pairs seamlessly with the sweet, tender scallops, offering a taste sensation that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Perfect for Picky Eaters: Trust me, if you’ve got little ones or even some reluctant adults at the dinner table, the classic flavors and tender textures will win them over.
Great Leftover Potential: This dish doesn’t just shine on the first day. The leftover steak and scallops can be tossed in a quick salad or made into a hearty protein fix for the next day’s lunch.
Budget-Friendly: For a restaurant-quality meal that doesn’t break the bank, I’d say this recipe is a steal. It’s perfect for date nights without the hefty price tag.
Healthier Comfort Food: The fact that this meal is high in protein and delivers rich flavors while still feeling clean is a win-win in my book!

What Makes This Recipe Special?

What makes this dish sparkle is how it marries the indulgence of steaks and the luxury of scallops—bringing two different yet delicious proteins to the table. The steak delivers that satisfying chew and smoky flavor while the scallops impart their sweet seafood richness. It gives you that feeling of taking a bite out of something really special.

Add in the crunch of freshly minced garlic and a sprinkle of parsley for a pop of color, and you’ve got a simple yet fancy dish that makes any dinner feel like a special occasion. Plus, it’s packed with high protein meals, making it a healthy choice that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this fabulous dish:

2 ribeye steaks: For a satisfying, hearty bite. Ribeye is tender with a nice marbling, ensuring it’s juicy and flavorful.
8 scallops: Sweet and buttery, scallops elevate this dish to gourmet status. Choose fresh if you can, but frozen will do in a pinch!
Salt: A must for enhancing the flavors of your steak.
Pepper: Freshly cracked gives the best results for seasoning.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Perfect for cooking meat at high temperatures.
2 tablespoons butter: Because butter makes everything better—and adds an irresistible richness to the sauce.
2 cloves garlic (minced): For that aromatic kick!
1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped): Brightens up the dish and adds a touch of freshness.

Personal Tips for Ingredients

Now, a quick note on my personal preferences: when it comes to steaks, I love to source from my local butcher. There’s just something about knowing where your meat comes from. As for the scallops, try to get dry-packed if you can; they sear beautifully without too much water.

An important tip: don’t skimp on the quality of the steak—you deserve it! And remember, very importantly: if you accidentally forget to pat your scallops dry before searing, oops—your sear won’t be as beautiful, so avoid that rookie move!

How to Make It Step-by-Step

Let’s take this high-protein meal from the raw state to your plate. Trust me, every step is filled with tasty transitions.

Season the Steaks: Start by seasoning your ribeye steaks generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This might seem like a simple step, but trust me, it makes a world of difference.
Heat Your Skillet: Grab your trusty skillet (cast iron gives the best sear), and heat up 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. You want it hot, but don’t go crazy—burnt oil is not your friend! You’ll know it’s ready when a drop of water sizzles and evaporates almost immediately.
Cook the Steaks: Place the seasoned steaks in the skillet, and listen to that glorious sizzle! I recommend cooking them—approximately 4-5 minutes for medium-rare—flipping them halfway through. You’ll want a nice crust to form while keeping the insides tender and juicy. When you flip the steaks, give them a gentle press down with a spatula to ensure good contact with the pan.
Rest the Steaks: Once your steaks have reached your desired doneness (aim for an internal temperature of about 130-135°F for medium-rare), remove them from the skillet and let them rest on a cutting board. This is crucial! Resting allows the juices to redistribute and keeps your steak from turning into a dry disappointment.
Prepare for Scallops: In the same skillet (hello, flavor!), add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and the butter. Let it melt together until it’s bubbling—this is where the magic happens!
Searing the Scallops: Add your scallops to the skillet, ensuring they aren’t crowded. You want those gorgeous golden brown sears! Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side. Don’t flip them too soon, or you’ll miss that perfect crust.
Add Some Garlic Goodness: When the scallops are nearly done (opaque and firm), add your minced garlic to the pan. Stir gently for about a minute until fragrant—let the smell wrap around you like a cozy blanket.
Assemble and Garnish: Now, place your resting steaks on plates and pile the scallops enticingly on top. Don’t forget to drench everything in that buttery garlic sauce left in the pan. Finally, sprinkle with chopped parsley for that finishing touch.

All those flavors scurrying around your kitchen? Pure magic!

Tips for Best Results

For best results, let your steak sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook evenly. Use a meat thermometer to avoid guesswork—these simple tweaks can make a world of difference!

Also, always remember: the key to great scallops is proper drying before hitting the pan. Trust me, that extra step will reward you with perfectly seared, golden beauties.

Ingredient Substitutions & Variations

Feeling adventurous? Here’s where you let your creativity flourish! Instead of ribeye, you could use sirloin for a leaner option. And if you’re in the seafood mood, shrimp can stand in for scallops beautifully.

For a twist on the flavors, try adding a splash of lemon juice when sautéing the garlic, giving sunshine vibes to your meal. Fresh herbs like thyme or even a dash of chili flakes could enhance the flavor profile.

Seasonal Variations

In the summer months, consider pairing this dish with fresh tomatoes or asparagus—it’s a colorful and vibrant touch! Similarly, in autumn, why not incorporate sautéed mushrooms for that earthy taste?

Serving Suggestions

Pairing Ideas (Drinks, Sides, etc.)

This dish is splendid on its own, but it thrives with some companions! I would recommend pairing your steak and scallops with creamy mashed potatoes or a light garden salad for a refreshing contrast. Don’t forget a glass of sparkling water or a crisp white wine if you’re in the mood—this combination just feels like a night well spent. And honestly? Put on your favorite rom-com while you enjoy, and you’ll have the perfect cozy night in.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

You might be tempted to scarf this dish down in one sitting (very relatable), but if you do have leftovers, store them covered in the fridge. Make sure to eat them within 2-3 days for the best quality.

When reheating, I recommend using a skillet on low heat so you can gently warm the steak without overcooking it. Scallops can reheat quickly, so be cautious—they like to lose their buttery perfection if you’re not careful!

Make-Ahead and Freezer Tips

Feeling inspired? You could marinate the steaks a day before to infuse them with flavor. However, I wouldn’t recommend freezing the scallops—seafood is best fresh!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common pitfall is overcrowding the skillet. If you toss too many scallops or steaks in at once, they won’t sear properly. Also, avoid the temptation to lift them up and peek too soon; let that crust develop beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use frozen scallops?

Yes, just ensure they’re completely thawed and patted dry before cooking!

How do I know when my steak is done?

Using a meat thermometer is your best friend! For medium-rare, aim for about 130-135°F.

Can I substitute another oil for cooking?

Absolutely! Grape seed or avocado oil work well due to their high smoke points.

Cooking Tools You’ll Need

A good skillet (cast iron or stainless steel works best)
Meat thermometer (for accuracy)
Tongs (for steak flipping)
A sharp knife for slicing and serving

Final Thoughts

As I sit here writing, my heart swells thinking about the simple joy this steak and scallops dinner has brought to my family and friends. It’s not just about the food—it’s the memories created, the laughter shared, and the heartwarming conversations that fill the air. Whenever I make this dish, I feel a cozy comfort that turns my kitchen into a haven of warmth.

Now, it’s your turn. I invite you to try this delightful recipe out, weave your own stories around it, and even add a personal touch. If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to save it on Pinterest or share it with a friend! Happy cooking!