Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are a simple yet elegant seafood dish packed with rich, buttery flavor and a crispy Parmesan topping. They make a perfect appetizer or main course for a special occasion or an easy weeknight dinner. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal ready in no time!

Ingredients

• 1 lb fresh sea scallops
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup butter, melted
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

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

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Scallops: Rinse the scallops under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
3. Make the Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter and minced garlic.
4. Season the Scallops: Place the scallops in a baking dish and season with salt and pepper.
5. Add Garlic Butter: Drizzle the garlic butter mixture over the scallops.
6. Prepare the Topping: In another bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the scallops.
7. Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, until the scallops are opaque and the topping is golden brown.
8. Serve: Remove from the oven and serve hot with lemon wedges or your favorite side dish.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a little heat.
• Herb Upgrade: Try adding fresh thyme or dill for extra depth of flavor.
• Cheesy Twist: Use Gruyère or mozzarella instead of Parmesan for a different cheesy texture.
• Vegetable Addition: Mix in chopped spinach or artichokes for a heartier dish.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Warm gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes or microwave in short bursts to avoid overcooking.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen scallops?

Yes, just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before baking.

2. How do I know when scallops are done cooking?

Scallops are done when they turn opaque and firm to the touch, typically around 15-20 minutes of baking.

3. Can I use shrimp instead of scallops?

Yes! This garlic butter topping also works beautifully with shrimp or fish fillets.

4. What side dishes pair well with scallops?

They go great with rice, pasta, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

5. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko or almond flour.

6. Should I remove the side muscle from scallops?

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

7. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the garlic butter and breadcrumb mixture in advance, but it’s best to bake the scallops fresh.

8. What type of scallops should I use?

Look for dry-packed sea scallops for the best flavor and texture.

9. Can I use pre-grated Parmesan?

Freshly grated Parmesan melts better, but pre-grated can be used if needed.

10. What wine pairs well with this dish?

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the buttery scallops perfectly.

Conclusion

These Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are an easy yet gourmet dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether served as an appetizer or main course, their tender texture, buttery garlic sauce, and crispy Parmesan topping make them irresistible. Try them tonight for a restaurant-quality meal at home!

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

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• Author: Emma
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 15-20 minutes
• Yield: 15-20 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Main Course
• Method: Appetizer, Main Course
• Cuisine: American, Seafood
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

These Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are rich, buttery, and topped with a golden Parmesan crust. Perfect as an appetizer or main course, this elegant seafood dish comes together in just 30 minutes with simple ingredients.

 

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Ingredients

• 1 lb fresh sea scallops
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup butter, melted
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

• Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Prepare Scallops: Rinse scallops under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
• Make Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, mix melted butter with minced garlic.
• Season Scallops: Place scallops in a baking dish, season with salt and pepper, and drizzle with garlic butter.
• Prepare Topping: In another bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley. Sprinkle over scallops.
• Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes until scallops are opaque and topping is golden brown.
• Serve: Serve hot with lemon wedges or your favorite side dish.

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Notes

• Perfectly Cooked Scallops: They should be opaque and firm, but not rubbery.
• Dry vs. Wet Scallops: Dry-packed scallops are best for optimal flavor and texture.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Swap regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free panko or almond flour.