Garlic Butter Baked Scallops is a dish that has always captured my heart, and for good reason. With its delicate flavor and rich buttery finish, this recipe transforms hefty sea scallops into a restaurant-worthy experience, all in the comfort of your own kitchen. Whether you’re planning a cozy weeknight dinner, a festive gathering, or just want to impress someone special, these scallops are your answer. Trust me, once you try this dish, it will quickly become a go-to for any occasion.
Why you’ll love this dish
There are plenty of reasons to whip up Garlic Butter Baked Scallops in your home kitchen. For starters, this dish takes minimal prep time yet delivers on flavor—perfect for those who want to savor a sophisticated meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of melted butter, garlicky goodness, and a crispy breadcrumb topping creates a delightful texture contrast that will have your taste buds singing. It’s quick, it’s indulgent, and it’s a crowd-pleaser, making it ideal for date nights, family brunches, or even festive holiday feasts.
"I made these scallops for my parents’ anniversary dinner, and they couldn’t stop raving about how delicious they were! The garlic butter was heavenly." – Sarah T.
Preparing Garlic Butter Baked Scallops
To create this mouthwatering dish, you’ll need a clear path to success! Here’s a brief overview so you know what to expect. First, you’ll preheat your oven to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking. Then you’ll season the scallops, drizzle on the garlic butter, and top them with a mixture of Parmesan and breadcrumbs. After transferring them to a baking dish, they’ll bake to perfection for about 12–15 minutes.
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What you’ll need
Gather these ingredients to create your Garlic Butter Baked Scallops:
- 1 lb (450 g) large sea scallops
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges, for serving
For those looking for alternatives, consider using herb-infused butter for an extra flavor kick or swapping out regular breadcrumbs for panko if you want a crunchier topping.
Directions to follow
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat the scallops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Stir well to mix.
- Place the scallops in a single layer in a lightly greased baking dish. Drizzle the garlic butter mixture evenly over them.
- In another bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the scallops.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the scallops are opaque and the topping has turned golden brown.
- Garnish with extra parsley and serve hot, along with lemon wedges or crusty bread for dipping.
Best ways to enjoy it
When it comes to serving your Garlic Butter Baked Scallops, think outside the box! These scallops shine on their own but pair beautifully with roasted asparagus or a light mixed greens salad tossed in a vinaigrette. If you’re feeling indulgent, serve them alongside a creamy risotto or garlic mashed potatoes for a heartier meal. A crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, can elevate your dining experience further!
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your leftover Garlic Butter Baked Scallops fresh, they should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last up to three days. When it’s time to enjoy them again, gently reheat in the oven at a low temperature to avoid overcooking. If you’d like to freeze them, make sure to do it before baking; they should be wrapped tightly and can be stored for up to three months.
Helpful cooking tips
To elevate your scallops, make sure you pat them dry thoroughly before seasoning; this helps achieve that lovely golden crust during baking. Also, keep an eye on the baking time since scallops can go from perfectly cooked to rubbery quite quickly. If you’re limited on time, prepped scallops can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking, which makes meal prep a breeze!
Creative twists
Feel like getting adventurous? Add a dash of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a hint of heat. You can also substitute the parsley with fresh basil or thyme for a different flavor profile. Using a dash of Old Bay seasoning can transport this dish to coastal cuisine, while adding lemon zest can enhance the freshness.
Your questions answered
1. How long does it take to prepare?
Preparation takes about 10 minutes, while baking takes another 12–15 minutes. In total, you can have this exquisite dish on the table in under 30 minutes!
2. Can I use frozen scallops?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking for the best results.
3. What if I don’t have panko breadcrumbs?
Regular breadcrumbs will work just fine! However, panko adds extra crunch.
This simple yet sophisticated Garlic Butter Baked Scallops recipe is certain to impress and satisfy every palate. Enjoy your culinary masterpiece!
