Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are a quick, elegant dish that combines tender, juicy scallops with a golden breadcrumb and Parmesan topping. Bursting with flavor from garlic, butter, and lemon, this recipe is perfect for date nights, dinner parties, or any time you want to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.
- Elegant Presentation: The golden crust and succulent scallops create a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
- Flavorful and Fresh: The garlic butter, Parmesan, and lemon add vibrant and rich flavors.
- Customizable: Add extra herbs or spice for a personalized touch.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 lb large scallops, patted dry
- 4 tbsp butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Directions
Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the Garlic Butter
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Assemble the Scallops
- Arrange the scallops in a single layer in a baking dish.
- Pour the garlic butter mixture over the scallops, ensuring they are evenly coated.
Add the Topping
- In another small bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and parsley.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the scallops.
Bake
- Bake the scallops in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until they turn opaque and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown.
Serve
- Serve the baked scallops hot, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for an extra burst of flavor.
Servings and Timing
- Yield: 4 servings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a touch of heat.
- Herbal Twist: Use thyme or dill instead of parsley for a different herbaceous flavor.
- Low-Carb Option: Swap breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds for a keto-friendly version.
- Cheese Lovers: Mix in a bit of Gruyère or Asiago cheese with the Parmesan for a richer flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover scallops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving to prevent overcooking and rubbery texture.
FAQs
1. What kind of scallops should I use?
Use large sea scallops for this recipe, as they cook evenly and stay juicy.
2. Do I need to rinse the scallops?
No, simply pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
3. Can I use frozen scallops?
Yes, just thaw them overnight in the fridge and pat them dry before cooking.
4. What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?
Crushed crackers, almond flour, or panko breadcrumbs work as great substitutes.
5. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
6. Can I grill the scallops instead?
Yes, skip the breadcrumb topping and grill them for 2-3 minutes per side, brushing with garlic butter.
7. How do I know when the scallops are cooked?
The scallops should turn opaque and feel firm but not rubbery when pressed lightly.
8. Can I add vegetables to the dish?
Absolutely! Add cherry tomatoes or asparagus to the baking dish for a complete meal.
9. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can assemble the scallops with the topping and refrigerate them for up to 2 hours before baking.
10. What pairs well with baked scallops?
Serve with a side of garlic bread, pasta, rice pilaf, or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are a show-stopping dish that combines simplicity with elegance. With minimal prep and bold flavors, they’re a great option for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to special celebrations. Pair with your favorite sides and enjoy the irresistible taste of tender, buttery scallops!
Print
Garlic Butter Baked Scallops
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Tender and juicy scallops baked in a rich garlic butter sauce, topped with a crispy Parmesan breadcrumb crust. Perfectly seasoned and easy to make, this dish is elegant enough for a special occasion yet simple enough for a weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large scallops, patted dry
- 4 tbsp butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the Garlic Butter:
In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Assemble the Scallops:
- Place the scallops in a single layer in a baking dish.
- Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over the scallops, ensuring they are well-coated.
4. Add the Topping:
- In another small bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and parsley.
- Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the scallops.
5. Bake:
- Bake the scallops in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until they are opaque and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown.
6. Serve:
- Serve the baked scallops hot with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.
Notes
- Pat the Scallops Dry: Removing excess moisture ensures even cooking and helps the breadcrumb topping stay crispy.
- Adjust Cooking Time: If your scallops are smaller, reduce the baking time slightly to avoid overcooking.
- Add Spice: For a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *