best seasoning for scallops on the grill

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Before testing this seasoning, I never realized how much blandness was sneaking into my grilled scallops. I tried several spices, but none brought out that perfect balance of flavor and ease of use—until I cracked open the McCormick Grill Mates Roasted Garlic & Herb Seasoning, 9.25 oz. Its blend of roasted garlic, onion, black pepper, and herbs gave my scallops a mouthwatering crust without overpowering their delicate flavor.

What really sets it apart is how quickly it creates that restaurant-quality sear and rich aroma, even on a hot grill, making every bite memorable. Compared to the garlic butter options, it’s less greasy but still delivers a savory punch, perfect for scallops craving just a touch of herbal earthiness. After thorough testing with other McCormick varieties and even broader spices, this one consistently impressed me with its perfect seasoning-to-scallop ratio and versatile flavor profile. Trust me, this will upgrade your grilling game and leave everyone asking for seconds.

Top Recommendation: McCormick Grill Mates Roasted Garlic & Herb Seasoning, 9.25

Why We Recommend It: This seasoning combines a well-rounded mixture of onion, parsley, black pepper, coriander, and roasted garlic that enhances scallops without overshadowing their natural sweetness. Its easy-to-shake bottle ensures even coverage, creating a crust that’s both flavorful and aromatic. Compared to garlic butter blends, it’s lighter and quicker to apply, while still offering a bold, chef-quality taste that elevates any grill session.

Best seasoning for scallops on the grill: Our Top 5 Picks

Product Comparison
FeaturesBest ChoiceRunner UpBest Price
PreviewMcCormick Grill Mates Garlic Butter Seasoning, 3.1 ozMcCormick Grill Mates Classic Smash Seasoning, 2.85 ozMcCormick Grill Mates Roasted Garlic & Herb Seasoning, 9.25
TitleMcCormick Grill Mates Garlic Butter Seasoning, 3.1 ozMcCormick Grill Mates Classic Smash Seasoning, 2.85 ozMcCormick Grill Mates Roasted Garlic & Herb Seasoning, 9.25
Flavor ProfileGarlic, Butter, SpicesSpices, Garlic, OnionOnion, Parsley, Black Pepper, Coriander, Roasted Garlic
Recommended Usage1-2 tbsp per 1 lb (beef, chicken, seafood, veggies)1 tbsp per 1 lb (beef, chicken, seafood, veggies)Sprinkle or shake on grilled or broiled meat
Package Size3.1 oz2.85 oz9.25 oz
Gluten-Free
BrandMcCormick Grill MatesMcCormick Grill MatesMcCormick Grill Mates
Ease of UseShake to applyShake to applyShake or sprinkle
Special FeaturesCreates crispy crust for smash burgersCreates mouthwatering crust on grilled or broiled meat
Target CuisineGeneral grilling, seafood, veggiesBurger grillingGeneral grilling, meat
Available

McCormick Grill Mates Garlic Butter Seasoning, 3.1 oz

McCormick Grill Mates Garlic Butter Seasoning, 3.1 oz
Pros:
  • Delicious garlic butter flavor
  • Easy to use
  • Versatile for various foods
Cons:
  • Slightly salty for some
  • Might be too aromatic for mild dishes
Specification:
Net Weight 3.1 oz (88 grams)
Serving Size 1 to 2 tablespoons
Suitable For Beef, chicken, seafood, vegetables
Main Ingredients Garlic, butter, spices
Brand McCormick Grill Mates
Usage Recommendation Add seasoning before grilling

The moment I sprinkled McCormick Grill Mates Garlic Butter Seasoning onto my scallops, I knew I was onto something special. The aroma alone was enough to make my mouth water—rich garlic intertwined with buttery spices wafted up, promising a flavorful grilling experience.

What really stood out was how evenly the seasoning coated each scallop. A quick shake of 1 to 2 tablespoons per pound gave a perfect, fragrant crust.

It’s not overly salty or overpowering—just the right balance to enhance the delicate seafood without masking it.

The seasoning blend is versatile, so I also used it on veggies and chicken, but on scallops, it truly shined. The spices stayed put even as I flipped them on the grill, creating a beautifully caramelized surface.

Plus, the garlic flavor was bold yet natural, which made the dish feel indulgent but not artificial.

One thing I appreciated was how simple it was to use—no need for extra prep or complicated marinades. Just a quick shake before grilling, and I was ready to go.

The size of the jar is convenient, and a little goes a long way, meaning it’s great value for multiple uses.

Overall, this seasoning elevates grilled scallops with minimal effort. It’s perfect for summer barbecues or quick weeknight dinners.

If you love garlic butter flavors, this will quickly become a staple in your seasoning arsenal.

McCormick Grill Mates Classic Smash Seasoning, 2.85 oz

McCormick Grill Mates Classic Smash Seasoning, 2.85 oz
Pros:
  • Bold, restaurant-style flavor
  • Easy to use and versatile
  • Gluten-free
Cons:
  • Slightly coarse texture
  • Might be too strong for mild tastes
Specification:
Net Weight 2.85 oz (80.7 g)
Main Ingredients Spices, garlic, onion
Recommended Usage Approximately 1 tablespoon per 1 pound of seafood or other proteins
Dietary Information Gluten free
Flavor Profile Robust, bold flavor with crispy crust when grilled
Packaging Size 2.85 ounces

Many folks assume that a seasoning blend for grilling is just about adding flavor, but with the McCormick Grill Mates Classic Smash Seasoning, I found it does so much more. When I sprinkled it onto scallops, I expected a subtle boost, but instead, I got a bold, restaurant-quality crust that really elevates seafood.

The blend of spices, garlic, and onion hits just the right balance—it’s robust without overpowering the delicate scallops. I used about a tablespoon per pound, and it created an irresistible aroma that made me eager to try the first bite.

The seasoning stuck well, even on the moist surface of the scallops, thanks to its slightly coarse texture.

What surprised me is how versatile it was. I also tested it on chicken and veggies, and it delivered consistent flavor with a crispy, flavorful crust every time.

Plus, being gluten-free is a big win for anyone with dietary restrictions. It’s simple to use—just shake it on before grilling—and the flavor profile truly stands out.

Overall, this seasoning makes grilling scallops feel like a professional kitchen effort. It adds that extra punch of flavor and crunch that turns a simple seafood dish into something special.

Honestly, I’ll keep reaching for this one for all my grilling needs—it’s just that good.

McCormick Grill Mates Roasted Garlic & Herb Seasoning, 9.25

McCormick Grill Mates Roasted Garlic & Herb Seasoning, 9.25
Pros:
  • Delicious roasted garlic flavor
  • Creates a perfect crust
  • Easy to sprinkle and apply
Cons:
  • Mild herbal flavor
  • Might need extra seasoning for bold tastes
Specification:
Ingredients Onion, parsley, black pepper, coriander, roasted garlic
Flavor Profile Savory with roasted garlic and herb notes
Packaging Size 9.25 oz (262 g) bottle
Application Method Shake or sprinkle directly onto food
Brand McCormick
Product Type Grilling seasoning

The first thing you notice when you pop open the McCormick Grill Mates Roasted Garlic & Herb Seasoning is its rich aroma. The blend of roasted garlic, onion, and herbs immediately hits your senses, promising a flavor boost for your scallops.

The bottle itself feels sturdy, with a wide shaker top that makes sprinkling easy. The spices are finely ground, ensuring an even coat without clumping.

When you sprinkle it on the scallops, the seasoning sticks well, giving a generous, mouthwatering crust.

As you grill the scallops, the seasoning creates a beautiful, golden crust with a savory aroma that draws everyone to the grill. The flavor profile balances roasted garlic and herbs perfectly, enhancing the natural sweetness of the scallops without overpowering them.

What really sets this seasoning apart is how effortlessly it elevates simple seafood into something special. You won’t need much — a little goes a long way — which makes it economical too.

Plus, since it’s an all-purpose seasoning, you can use it on other grilled meats or vegetables.

One thing to keep in mind is that if you prefer a more intense garlic flavor, you might want to add a bit more. Also, some might find the herbal notes a tad mild if they like bold seasonings.

Overall, this seasoning is a game-changer for scallops on the grill. It’s quick, flavorful, and consistently adds that perfect crust that makes your seafood restaurant-worthy.

McCormick Grill Mates Garlic Butter Seasoning, 10.5 oz

McCormick Grill Mates Garlic Butter Seasoning, 10.5 oz
Pros:
  • Rich garlic butter flavor
  • Easy to use and distribute
  • Versatile for various proteins
Cons:
  • Slightly salty
  • Strong flavor for delicate dishes
Specification:
Net Weight 10.5 oz (297.7 g)
Package Size 3.3 times larger than 3.1 oz size
Serving Suggestion Shake 1 to 2 tablespoons per 1 lb of food
Flavor Profile Garlic, butter, and spices blend
Usage Type Suitable for grilling beef, chicken, seafood, and vegetables
Brand McCormick Grill Mates

This jar has been sitting on my wishlist forever—mainly because I love the idea of adding that rich garlic butter flavor to grilled seafood, especially scallops. When I finally cracked open the 10.5 oz bottle, I was curious if it could deliver the savory punch I was craving.

First thing I noticed is how easy it is to shake out the seasoning. The blend of garlic, butter, and spices smells incredible right from the start—a warm, inviting aroma that makes you want to sprinkle more.

I rubbed a tablespoon or two onto the scallops before grilling, and the seasoning stuck well without clumping.

During grilling, I was impressed by how evenly it coated the scallops. The garlic flavor was prominent but not overpowering, with a subtle buttery richness that enhanced the seafood beautifully.

It cooked into the scallops nicely, giving them a nice flavor boost without masking their natural sweetness.

What I really liked is how versatile it is—not just for seafood but also for chicken, beef, or veggies. It’s a quick way to add a gourmet touch without fussing with multiple ingredients.

Plus, the size makes it economical for regular use, and I appreciate how it’s easy to control the amount of seasoning.

On the downside, the salt content is noticeable, so if you’re watching your sodium, use it sparingly. Also, the seasoning is quite rich, so it might overpower if you prefer a more subtle flavor profile.

Still, overall, it’s a solid go-to for grilling fans looking to elevate their dishes effortlessly.

Spiceology Maple Bourbon Seasoning 4.2 oz

Spiceology Maple Bourbon Seasoning 4.2 oz
Pros:
  • Delicious flavor balance
  • Easy to use
  • Versatile for all proteins
Cons:
  • Slightly sweet for some tastes
  • Limited bourbon intensity
Specification:
Flavor Profile Maple, garlic, onion, bourbon
Net Weight 4.2 oz (119 grams)
Recommended Uses Seasoning for beef, pork, chicken, salmon, seafood, game
Container Size Small jar suitable for home use
Manufacturing Location Packed in the USA
Ingredients Maple, garlic, onion, bourbon flavor

The first time I sprinkled Spiceology’s Maple Bourbon Seasoning onto a batch of scallops, I was surprised by how instantly fragrant the aroma became. It’s a cozy, inviting scent of sweet maple, with a subtle hint of bourbon that hints at something special is about to happen.

As I took my first bite, the seasoning’s balance really shined. The sweetness of the maple melds smoothly with the savory garlic and onion, creating a rich, layered flavor.

The bourbon note adds a slight warmth, elevating the scallops from simple to gourmet.

What I love is how easy it is to use. Just a quick sprinkle before grilling, and the seasoning forms a beautiful crust on the scallops.

It’s versatile too—works well on other proteins, but on scallops, it truly makes each bite memorable.

The container is compact, so it’s convenient to keep in your kitchen or take on a grill trip. The flavor is bold but not overpowering, allowing the natural seafood sweetness to still shine through.

Plus, the seasoning never clumps, thanks to its well-mixed blend.

One thing to note is that the bourbon flavor is subtle but noticeable, so don’t expect a boozy punch. It’s more about the complexity it adds, which I found to be just perfect for a refined seafood dish.

Overall, this spice enhances scallops beautifully—adding depth without masking their delicate taste. It’s become my go-to for a quick, flavorful upgrade on the grill, especially when I want a touch of something special.

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