Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are the epitome of elegance and simplicity, delivering gourmet flavors with minimal effort. Tender, sweet scallops are bathed in a luxurious garlic butter sauce, then baked to perfection with a golden breadcrumb topping. The result is a dish that’s savory, buttery, and irresistibly aromatic.

Perfect for special occasions, romantic dinners, or holiday celebrations, this dish is as impressive as it is easy to make. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or just looking for a quick, high-quality meal, these Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are sure to impress.

With their delicate flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture, scallops are a seafood lover’s dream. This recipe brings out their natural sweetness while enhancing them with a rich, garlicky, and slightly tangy sauce. Serve them with crusty bread, over pasta, or alongside roasted vegetables for a restaurant-quality meal at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Gourmet Taste at Home

These baked scallops bring the flavors of a fine-dining seafood restaurant into your kitchen, elevating any meal with minimal effort.

Quick and Easy Preparation

This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute entertaining.

Perfect Texture and Flavor

The garlic butter sauce keeps the scallops tender and juicy, while the breadcrumb topping adds a satisfying crunch.

Versatile Pairings

Serve with rice, pasta, salad, or crusty bread for endless pairing possibilities.

Nutrient-Rich Seafood

Scallops are high in protein, low in fat, and rich in vitamins and minerals, making them a healthy yet indulgent choice.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Serving Size: 5–6 scallops

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 7g
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g

Ingredients

For the Scallops:

• 1 pound large sea scallops (about 20 scallops)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)

For the Topping:

• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a baking dish or oven-safe skillet with olive oil or non-stick spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Scallops

1. Pat the scallops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step ensures a better sear and prevents a watery sauce.
2. Arrange the scallops in a single layer in the prepared baking dish, leaving space between them for even cooking.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

1. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
2. Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over the scallops, ensuring each one is well-coated.

Step 4: Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping

1. In another bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, olive oil, and lemon zest. Mix until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated and crumbly.
2. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture generously over the scallops.

Step 5: Bake the Scallops

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the scallops are opaque and cooked through. The topping should be golden and crispy.
2. If you want extra browning, turn on the broiler for the last 1–2 minutes of cooking.

Step 6: Serve

1. Remove the scallops from the oven and let them rest for 2 minutes.
2. Garnish with additional parsley and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving.

Ingredient Background

Scallops: Sea scallops are larger and sweeter than bay scallops, making them ideal for baking. They’re a good source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids.

Garlic: The garlic adds a robust and savory flavor that enhances the sweetness of the scallops. Freshly minced garlic is recommended for maximum flavor.

Butter: Melted butter creates the rich base for the sauce, coating the scallops in a silky, flavorful glaze.

Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko adds a light, crispy texture to the topping, contrasting beautifully with the tender scallops.

Parmesan Cheese: The cheese adds a salty, umami kick that balances the buttery richness of the dish.

Technique Tips

Dry the Scallops Thoroughly: Removing moisture helps the scallops develop a better texture and prevents the sauce from becoming watery.

Single Layer Placement: Spread the scallops out in the baking dish to ensure even cooking. Overcrowding can cause steaming instead of baking.

Keep an Eye on Cooking Time: Scallops can overcook quickly, becoming rubbery. Begin checking for doneness around the 12-minute mark.

Broil for Extra Crispiness: If you prefer a crunchy topping, broil the scallops for a couple of minutes at the end. Watch closely to avoid burning.

Recipe Variations

Spicy Garlic Butter Scallops: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture for a spicy kick.

Herbaceous Twist: Use fresh dill, basil, or thyme in place of parsley for a different flavor profile.

Cheesy Upgrade: Sprinkle extra Parmesan or Gruyère cheese over the scallops for a richer, more decadent topping.

Gluten-Free Option: Replace the panko breadcrumbs with a gluten-free breadcrumb alternative.

Lemon Caper Sauce: Add capers to the garlic butter sauce for a tangy, briny flavor.

Freezing and Storing

Refrigeration: Store leftover baked scallops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain their flavor and texture. Place them on a single layer to prevent them from sticking together. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking, as scallops can become rubbery if heated too long or at too high a temperature.

Freezing: If you have leftover cooked scallops, allow them to cool completely before freezing. Place the scallops in a freezer-safe container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then seal them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 1 month without compromising flavor. For the best results, thaw the scallops overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Tip: To retain their delicate texture, avoid reheating scallops in the microwave. Instead, warm them in a skillet over low heat with a small splash of butter or chicken broth, or reheat in the oven at 325°F (165°C) until just warmed through. Adding a touch of fresh lemon juice or additional garlic butter can revive their flavors.

Serving Suggestions for Events

Elegant Dinner Party: Impress your guests by serving the scallops over creamy Parmesan risotto or alongside roasted asparagus. Add a drizzle of the garlic butter sauce and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a restaurant-worthy presentation.

Romantic Date Night: Create a cozy, intimate meal by pairing the scallops with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. Add a side of warm garlic bread and a mixed greens salad for a well-rounded dinner that’s easy yet indulgent.

Holiday Appetizer: Elevate your holiday spread by presenting the scallops on individual appetizer spoons or small plates. Garnish with lemon zest and fresh herbs for a festive touch that will leave your guests impressed.

Seafood Feast: Make these scallops the centerpiece of a luxurious seafood platter. Pair them with shrimp cocktail, crab cakes, lobster tails, and a variety of dipping sauces. Add roasted vegetables and crusty bread to complete the spread.

Casual Weeknight Dinner: For a simple yet satisfying family meal, serve the scallops with a side of herbed rice or creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans.

Special Equipment

Baking Dish: A shallow, oven-safe dish or skillet ensures that the scallops cook evenly and remain submerged in the garlic butter sauce for maximum flavor. Opt for ceramic or glass to retain heat and present directly at the table.

Mixing Bowls: Use separate bowls for preparing the garlic butter sauce and breadcrumb topping. This keeps the process organized and ensures clean, defined flavors in each layer of the dish.

Microplane Zester: Essential for grating lemon zest finely and evenly, the zester adds a burst of bright citrus flavor to the breadcrumb topping and enhances the overall presentation.

Pastry Brush: A pastry brush is indispensable for evenly distributing the garlic butter sauce over the scallops, ensuring each piece is perfectly coated for rich, buttery flavor.

Kitchen Thermometer: While not essential, a digital thermometer ensures that the scallops reach their ideal internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) without overcooking, guaranteeing tenderness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use frozen scallops?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

2. What can I use instead of panko breadcrumbs?
Crushed crackers or regular breadcrumbs work as a substitute, though they may create a denser topping.

3. How do I know when the scallops are cooked?
Scallops are done when they are opaque and firm to the touch, with an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

4. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the garlic butter sauce and breadcrumb topping in advance, but assemble and bake the scallops fresh for the best texture.

5. What sides pair well with this dish?
Steamed vegetables, rice pilaf, or a light salad complement the richness of the scallops beautifully.

6. Can I substitute bay scallops?
Yes, but adjust the cooking time as bay scallops are smaller and cook more quickly.

7. Is this dish keto-friendly?
Yes, with a simple swap of almond flour for the breadcrumbs, this dish fits a keto diet.

8. Can I use salted butter?
Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to avoid an overly salty dish.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are a true showstopper, combining delicate seafood with rich, buttery flavors and a crispy, golden topping. This dish proves that gourmet dining doesn’t have to be complicated, as it delivers restaurant-quality results in less than 30 minutes.

Perfect for both special occasions and everyday meals, these scallops are versatile enough to pair with a variety of sides and wines, making them a must-have in your recipe collection. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a romantic meal, or simply treating yourself, Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are guaranteed to impress.

So, grab your baking dish and indulge in the simple luxury of this delicious seafood dish. Once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!

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