Garlic Butter Baked Scallops: A Deliciously Simple Seafood Dish

When you want to impress guests or treat yourself to a restaurant-quality seafood dish at home, garlic butter baked scallops are an ideal choice. Scallops are naturally sweet and tender, making them a fantastic canvas for rich flavors like butter, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. This recipe takes just a few minutes to prepare, but the result is a dish that feels luxurious and indulgent.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this garlic butter baked scallops recipe is easy to follow and will leave your guests asking for more. Let’s walk through each step of the process, from preparation to tips and frequently asked questions, ensuring a foolproof and flavorful dish every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Scallops:

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

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Preheating ensures that the scallops cook evenly and the breadcrumb topping crisps up beautifully. This temperature allows the scallops to bake quickly without drying out.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter

In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. This garlic butter mixture will infuse the scallops with rich, savory flavors, while the lemon juice adds a hint of brightness to balance the butter’s richness.

Tip: Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor. Bottled lemon juice can have a slightly bitter taste.

Step 3: Assemble the Scallops

Place the scallops in a single layer in a baking dish. Ensure that the scallops are not crowded, as this allows them to cook evenly and prevents steaming instead of baking.

Pour the garlic butter mixture over the scallops, making sure each one is well-coated.
The butter will melt further in the oven, soaking into the scallops and keeping them moist and tender.

Step 4: Add the Topping

In another small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. This mixture forms a crispy, cheesy crust over the scallops, adding a delightful texture contrast to the tender seafood.

Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the scallops, ensuring they are fully covered.
Tip: For an extra crispy topping, you can toast the breadcrumbs lightly in a dry pan before mixing with the cheese and parsley.

Step 5: Bake the Scallops

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the scallops for 10-12 minutes. Scallops cook quickly, and they are done when they turn opaque and the topping is golden brown.

Tip: Be careful not to overcook the scallops, as they can become tough and chewy. The internal temperature should reach 125°F (52°C) for perfectly cooked scallops.

Step 6: Serve

Once the scallops are done baking, serve them immediately with lemon wedges on the side. The acidity of the lemon juice will cut through the richness of the garlic butter and Parmesan, enhancing the dish’s overall flavor.

Serving Suggestions: Garlic Butter Baked Scallops pair well with a variety of side dishes, such as buttered pasta, creamy risotto, or even a light side salad. A glass of chilled white wine, like a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or buttery Chardonnay, makes for an excellent pairing.

Cooking Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

1. Pat the Scallops Dry

Before assembling the dish, make sure to thoroughly pat the scallops dry with paper towels. This step is crucial as excess moisture can prevent the scallops from browning properly, which is essential for achieving that golden, crispy texture.

2. Don’t Overcook the Scallops

Scallops are delicate, and overcooking them can turn them rubbery. Stick to the recommended 10-12 minutes of baking time, and check them frequently. If you have a food thermometer, the internal temperature should read 125°F (52°C).

3. Use Fresh Ingredients

For the best flavor, use fresh garlic, lemon juice, and parsley. While dried herbs and bottled juice can be convenient, fresh ingredients will make a noticeable difference in the taste and vibrancy of the dish.

4. Customize the Topping

Feel free to get creative with the breadcrumb topping. You can add a pinch of paprika for a smoky flavor, or sprinkle in some cayenne pepper for a bit of heat. A touch of Italian seasoning or thyme can also complement the flavors of the dish beautifully.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 280
Protein: 20g
Sodium: 450mg

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen scallops, but be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. After thawing, pat them dry thoroughly to remove any excess moisture. This will help them brown better in the oven and prevent them from becoming too watery.

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

Scallops are done when they turn opaque and firm to the touch. If you have a food thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of 125°F (52°C). Overcooking can make scallops tough, so keep an eye on them as they bake.

3. Can I substitute the Parmesan cheese with another type of cheese?

Parmesan is ideal due to its nutty flavor and ability to crisp up when baked. However, you can substitute it with Pecorino Romano for a similar salty, tangy taste or even mild cheddar for a creamier finish.

4. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, simply replace the regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so it’s an easy adaptation.

5. Can I add other seafood to this dish?

Absolutely! You can add shrimp or lobster alongside the scallops to create a mixed seafood dish. Just ensure that all seafood is evenly coated in the garlic butter, and adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the size of the additional seafood.

6. What if I don’t have fresh parsley?

If fresh parsley is unavailable, you can use dried parsley instead. Just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so use about half the amount as you would fresh parsley.

Conclusion: A Seafood Masterpiece

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops offer a harmonious blend of rich, buttery flavors and delicate, sweet seafood. This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight meal yet elegant enough to serve at a dinner party. The combination of garlic butter, Parmesan, and a crispy breadcrumb topping ensures that every bite is flavorful and satisfying.

With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a stunning seafood dish that will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Serve it with a light side dish, a glass of wine, and enjoy the compliments that are sure to follow.