Scallops In Cheese Sauce
Creamy scallops in a rich cheese sauce with mushrooms and herbs, perfect for seafood lovers and elegant dinners, offering a delightful blend of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place scallops, wine, and parsley in a 3-quart saucepan. Add water to cover. Bring to a boil and cook uncovered for 8 minutes. Remove scallops, reserving the liquid.
- Reduce the reserved liquid to 1 cup by boiling, then strain and set aside.
- Cook mushrooms and green onions in 3 tablespoons of butter for approximately 5 to 6 minutes, then remove from pan.
- Melt 3 tablespoons of butter in a separate pan.
- Stir in flour and cook over low heat until smooth and bubbly.
- Gradually stir in the reserved liquid and half and half, then add the scallops, cooked mushrooms and onions, and 1/4 cup of Swiss cheese. Heat until hot.
- Prepare bread crumbs by tossing them in melted butter.
- Grease baking dishes and divide the scallop mixture among them.
- Sprinkle with remaining cheese and top with buttered bread crumbs.
- Broil 3 to 5 inches from the heat source for 3 to 5 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a dry vermouth instead of white wine. If you don't have Swiss cheese, Gruyère or mozzarella can work as substitutes. When cooking the scallops, ensure they are not overcooked to maintain their tender texture. You can also add a pinch of nutmeg for an extra layer of flavor in the cheese sauce.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. Serve alongside Buttery Pasta With Shrimp for a delightful seafood feast. Consider a crisp white wine to complement the flavors, enhancing the dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover scallops in cheese sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Avoid using a microwave, as it can overcook the scallops and make them tough.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Scallops In Cheese Sauce contains roughly 1090 calories, with 24g protein, 92g carbohydrates, and 68g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (157% of the Daily Value), iron (68% of the Daily Value), and protein (47% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 515mg 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 it's essential to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to ensure they sear properly. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
What can I substitute for half and half?
If you don't have half and half, you can create a substitute by mixing equal parts whole milk and heavy cream. This will provide a similar richness to the sauce without compromising the dish's texture.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the scallop mixture and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just assemble the dish, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, add the cheese and bread crumbs, then broil as directed.
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).