Classic Coquilles St. Jacques

Coquilles St. Jacques is a timeless French seafood dish that brings together tender scallops, a creamy white wine sauce, and a golden, cheesy topping. Served in individual scallop shells or small gratin dishes, this elegant appetizer (or luxurious main) is both comforting and refined. Perfect for holidays, date nights, or anytime you want to impress with minimal effort.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Elegant Yet Easy – Simple steps for a restaurant-quality presentation.
Creamy & Savory – Rich sauce made with cream, shallots, and cheese.
Tender Scallops – Cooked just right for a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Perfect for Entertaining – Great for special dinners and holiday menus.
Versatile – Serve as a first course or light main with salad or rice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Scallops & Sauce:

• 1 lb sea scallops, patted dry
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp shallots, finely chopped
• ½ cup mushrooms, thinly sliced
• ½ cup fish or seafood broth (or chicken broth)
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ tsp Dijon mustard
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp grated Gruyère or Parmesan cheese

For the Topping:

• 2 tbsp breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
• 2 tbsp grated cheese (Gruyère or Parmesan)
• 1 tbsp melted butter
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional: a pinch of paprika for color

Tools You’ll Need
Medium skillet
Small saucepan
Whisk
Mixing bowls
Gratin dishes or scallop shells
Baking sheet
Spoon or spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Scallops
In a medium skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium heat.
Add the scallops and sear for 1–2 minutes per side until just opaque and lightly golden.
Remove scallops and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
In the same pan, melt the remaining 1 tbsp butter.
Add shallots and mushrooms and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened and lightly browned.

Step 3: Make the Sauce
Add the broth to the skillet and bring to a gentle simmer.
Stir in cream, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Simmer for 3–5 minutes, stirring, until slightly thickened.
Stir in 2 tbsp grated cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 4: Combine Scallops and Sauce
Return scallops to the sauce and toss to coat.
Simmer on low for 1–2 more minutes to warm through, then remove from heat.

Step 5: Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs, remaining cheese, and melted butter.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Spoon the scallop mixture evenly into gratin dishes or scallop shells placed on a baking sheet.
Sprinkle the breadcrumb topping over each portion.
Bake for 10–12 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Broil for 1–2 minutes if needed for extra browning.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and a pinch of paprika (if using).
Serve hot with lemon wedges or crusty bread.

Tips for Perfect Coquilles St. Jacques
Dry Scallops Thoroughly – This helps achieve a good sear.
Don’t Overcook – Scallops should be tender, not rubbery.
Use Real Gruyère – Adds a nutty, authentic flavor to the dish.
Prep Ahead – Sauce and scallops can be assembled in advance and baked just before serving.
Serve Individually – Use shells, ramekins, or small dishes for an elegant touch.

Serving Suggestions
Starter Course – Serve before a main dish like roast chicken or beef.
Light Dinner – Pair with a green salad and herbed rice or crusty bread.
Holiday Feast – Ideal for Christmas, New Year’s Eve, or Valentine’s Day.
Wine Pairing – Enjoy with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.
Buffet-Style – Serve in mini ramekins for a sophisticated party dish.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate: Cool leftovers and store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Not ideal for freezing as the cream sauce may separate.

Reheating:
Oven: Reheat at 350°F for 10–12 minutes until warmed through.
Avoid the microwave if possible to preserve texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen scallops?
Yes, just thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking.

2. Can I substitute shrimp or fish?
Absolutely! Shrimp or chunks of firm white fish work beautifully.

3. Is there a non-dairy option?
Use plant-based cream and cheese alternatives. The flavor may vary slightly, but still delicious.

4. Can I skip the wine?
Yes, use broth only or add a splash of lemon juice for brightness.

5. What kind of mushrooms work best?
White button or cremini mushrooms are great, but feel free to use any variety you enjoy.

Final Thoughts
Classic Coquilles St. Jacques is a stunning dish that brings together the elegance of French cuisine with the ease of a weeknight recipe. Whether you’re cooking to impress or just treating yourself to something special, the buttery scallops and creamy sauce are sure to satisfy. Lightly cheesy, delicately garlicky, and packed with flavor, this is a seafood dish worth savoring.

Try it for your next celebration or romantic dinner—you’ll fall in love at first bite.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: French

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 360 | Protein: 25g | Carbohydrates: 9g | Fat: 25g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 520mg

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