When it comes to refined French cuisine, few dishes rival the elegance and flavor of Coquilles Saint-Jacques Gratinées. This baked scallop dish, topped with a creamy white wine sauce and a golden cheese crust, is a festive favorite—especially in the holidays, wedding menus, or celebratory meals in France.

Served in natural scallop shells or ramekins, this dish showcases the delicate texture of scallops paired with rich, savory gratin flavor.

🌊 What Are Coquilles Saint-Jacques Gratinées?

"Coquilles Saint-Jacques" refers to sea scallops, named after Saint James (Jacques in French), the patron saint of pilgrims. In this recipe, the scallops are:

Gently poached in white wine

Mixed with mushrooms, shallots, and a creamy béchamel sauce

Topped with breadcrumbs and grated cheese

Baked until golden and bubbling

It’s a dish that blends French seafood tradition with classic gratin technique.

🧾 Ingredients (Serves 4)

12 large sea scallops (fresh or frozen, thawed)

1 cup white mushrooms, finely chopped

2 shallots, finely minced

2 tbsp butter

1 tbsp flour

1/2 cup dry white wine

1/2 cup milk or light cream

1/4 tsp grated nutmeg

Salt and black pepper to taste

1/4 cup grated Gruyère cheese (or Parmesan)

2 tbsp breadcrumbs

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional: 1 tbsp Cognac or brandy (for flavor depth)

👩‍🍳 How to Make Coquilles Saint-Jacques Gratinées

Step 1: Prepare the Scallops and Mushrooms

  1. In a skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium heat.

  2. Sauté shallots until translucent. Add mushrooms and cook until soft (about 4 minutes).

  3. Add scallops and white wine. Simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until scallops are just cooked.

  4. Remove scallops and mushrooms with a slotted spoon. Set aside.

  5. Let the liquid reduce slightly.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce

  1. In the same pan, melt 1 tbsp butter, add flour, and whisk to make a roux.

  2. Slowly pour in the reserved scallop liquid and milk (or cream), whisking constantly.

  3. Simmer until slightly thickened. Add salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Stir in Cognac if using.

  4. Return scallops and mushrooms to the sauce and stir gently.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

  1. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).

  2. Spoon the mixture into scallop shells or ramekins.

  3. Sprinkle with grated cheese and breadcrumbs.

  4. Place on a baking tray and bake for 10–12 minutes until bubbling and golden on top.

  5. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

🍽️ How to Serve

Serve Coquilles Saint-Jacques Gratinées as:

A starter for an elegant multi-course dinner

A main course with buttered green beans or a light salad

A holiday special with champagne or Chardonnay

Serve with:

Baguette or toasted brioche

A glass of white wine: such as Chablis, Sancerre, or Pouilly-Fumé

💡 Chef Tips

Use fresh scallops if possible, and pat them dry before cooking.

Don’t overcook the scallops—they should remain tender and slightly translucent inside.

For a more rustic touch, add a bit of garlic or finely diced leek.

Make the dish ahead of time, refrigerate, and bake just before serving.

🏆 Why This Dish Is a French Favorite

From Normandy to Parisian brasseries, Coquilles Saint-Jacques Gratinées is synonymous with elegance and indulgence. It highlights the sweet, oceanic flavor of scallops while embracing the richness of classic French sauces.

Whether served at Christmas, a romantic dinner, or a gourmet soirée, this dish is guaranteed to impress.

Bon appétit! 🐚🧅🧄