Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

Short Description

These Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are tender, flavorful, and baked to perfection in a rich garlic butter sauce. This easy seafood dish is perfect for a special dinner or an impressive appetizer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Simple yet elegant dish ready in under 30 minutes
  • Rich, buttery flavor with a perfect golden topping
  • Great for a special occasion or a quick weeknight meal
  • Pairs well with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad
  • A restaurant-quality seafood dish made at home
Garlic Butter Baked Scallops 10 These Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are tender, flavorful, and baked to perfection in a rich garlic butter sauce. This easy seafood dish is perfect for a special dinner or an impressive appetizer.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Fresh sea scallops
  • Butter, melted
  • Garlic, minced
  • Lemon juice
  • Parmesan cheese, grated
  • Breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and pepper
  • Paprika
  • Olive oil

Directions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
  2. Pat the scallops dry with a paper towel and arrange them in the dish.
  3. In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  4. Pour the butter mixture over the scallops.
  5. In another bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, paprika, and chopped parsley.
  6. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the scallops.
  7. Drizzle with olive oil to help with browning.
  8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the scallops are opaque and the topping is golden brown.
  9. Serve immediately with additional lemon wedges if desired.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 4
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

  • Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture.
  • Cheesy Twist: Use a blend of Parmesan and Gruyère for extra richness.
  • Citrus Flavor: Swap lemon juice for lime juice for a tangy variation.
  • Herb-Infused: Add fresh thyme or rosemary for extra aroma.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Storage/Reheating

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
  • Freezing: Not recommended, as scallops may become tough when reheated.
  • Reheating: Warm in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes or gently heat in a skillet over low heat.
Garlic Butter Baked Scallops
Garlic Butter Baked Scallops 11 These Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are tender, flavorful, and baked to perfection in a rich garlic butter sauce. This easy seafood dish is perfect for a special dinner or an impressive appetizer.

FAQs

Can I use frozen scallops?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and pat them dry before baking.

What’s the best way to prevent rubbery scallops?

Avoid overcooking; bake just until they turn opaque and tender.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can assemble it in advance, but bake just before serving for the best texture.

Should I remove the side muscle from scallops?

Yes, if present, remove the small tough muscle on the side of each scallop.

Can I use bay scallops instead of sea scallops?

Yes, but reduce the baking time since bay scallops are smaller.

What can I serve with baked scallops?

They pair well with pasta, rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Can I cook these in an air fryer?

Yes! Air fry at 375°F for 8-10 minutes until golden and cooked through.

What type of breadcrumbs work best?

Panko breadcrumbs create a crispier topping, but regular breadcrumbs also work well.

Can I add white wine to this dish?

Absolutely! A splash of white wine in the butter mixture adds great depth of flavor.

How do I know when scallops are done?

They should be opaque and slightly firm but still tender when touched.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are a luxurious yet easy dish that’s perfect for any seafood lover. With rich garlic butter flavor and a crispy topping, this dish is sure to impress at any meal!

Print
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Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

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  • Author: Maria B. Evans
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

  • These Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are tender, juicy, and packed with rich, buttery garlic flavor. Baked to perfection with a crispy golden topping, this easy seafood dish is perfect for a special dinner or a quick weeknight meal. Serve with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce!

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 lb sea scallops, patted dry
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

  • preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
  • Make garlic butter – In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  • Coat the scallops – Place the scallops in the baking dish and drizzle the garlic butter mixture over them. Toss gently to coat.
  • Make the topping – In another small bowl, combine Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs. Sprinkle evenly over the scallops.
  • Bake – Place in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, until the scallops are opaque and the topping is golden brown.
  • Broil (optional) – For a crispier topping, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end.
  • Garnish & serve – Drizzle with fresh lemon juice and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Serve immediately with lemon wedges.

Notes

  • Use fresh or frozen scallops (thawed) and pat them dry for the best texture.
  • Substitute Italian breadcrumbs if you don’t have panko.
  • Add a splash of white wine to the baking dish for extra flavor.
  • Pair with pasta, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables for a full meal.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 9g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 22g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg

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