Microwave Scallops In Mushroom-Cream Sauce
Creamy and flavorful scallops are showcased in this quick microwave dish, featuring a mushroom-cream sauce with a hint of wine or lemon juice. Perfect for a refined yet easy-to-make appetizer or main course, it combines tender seafood with a rich, cheesy sauce that delights the senses.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 2-quart glass casserole, melt butter on High for 1 minute.
- Add chopped green onions, sliced mushrooms, and shredded carrot; cover with plastic wrap and vent. Cook on High for 3 minutes.
- Stir in milk, white wine or lemon juice, and white sauce mix until blended.
- Cover, vent, and cook on High for 3 more minutes, stirring once.
- Stir in scallops; cover and vent.
- Cook on High for 2 minutes.
- Add shredded Swiss cheese and stir until melted.
- Spoon into four large scallop shells and garnish with chopped parsley.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting the butter with olive oil and using shallots instead of green onions. You can also replace the white sauce mix with a homemade béchamel for a fresher taste. To enhance the dish, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or some minced garlic. If you like a bit of spice, a dash of cayenne pepper can give it a nice kick.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the scallops in the shells for an elegant presentation, and pair them with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. A side of garlic bread complements the creamy sauce perfectly. For a complete seafood experience, consider serving with a light white wine or browse more seafood recipes for inspiration.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the scallop mixture in a microwave-safe dish and cover it loosely with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through. Avoid overheating to prevent the scallops from becoming rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Scallops In Mushroom-Cream Sauce contains roughly 1693 calories, with 15g protein, 124g carbohydrates, and 128g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (253% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (57% of the Daily Value), and iron (53% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 509mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?
Yes, frozen scallops can be used, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Pat them dry to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a better texture when cooking. Adjust cooking time if necessary, as frozen scallops may require slightly more time to heat through.
What can I substitute for Swiss cheese?
If you don't have Swiss cheese on hand, Gruyère or Monterey Jack are excellent substitutes, providing a similar melt and flavor profile. For a sharper taste, try using aged cheddar. Adjust the amount based on your preference for cheese flavor.
How can I make this dish lower in calories?
To reduce calories, use less butter or a light margarine, substitute whole milk with skim or almond milk, and use low-fat cheese. You can also decrease the amount of cheese used in the recipe while maintaining flavor with herbs and spices. Consider serving the scallops over a bed of sautéed greens instead of using scallop shells.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).