Garlic Butter Baked Scallops – glassika recipes

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops: A Luxurious & Easy Seafood Delight

Seafood lovers, get ready for a dish that is both elegant and incredibly easy to make. These Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are coated in a buttery, garlicky, and crispy topping, making them irresistibly delicious. With tender, juicy scallops, a golden Parmesan breadcrumb crust, and a touch of fresh lemon juice, this dish is packed with rich flavor and gourmet appeal. Whether you’re preparing a special occasion meal, a romantic dinner, or a quick weeknight seafood dish, this restaurant-quality recipe is guaranteed to impress.

Introduction

There’s something truly special about a perfectly baked scallop. With their naturally sweet and delicate taste, scallops are one of the most sought-after seafood delicacies. When combined with buttery garlic goodness, crisp breadcrumbs, and a hint of lemon, they transform into a luxurious and mouthwatering dish that is surprisingly simple to prepare at home.

This recipe requires just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, yet delivers a burst of flavor in every bite. Plus, it’s a versatile dish—serve it as an appetizer, side dish, or even as a main course over pasta or rice. Let’s dive into this delicious, easy-to-make Garlic Butter Baked Scallops recipe and bring a touch of fine dining to your kitchen.

Ingredients

To make this incredible Garlic Butter Baked Scallops recipe, you’ll need:

Essential 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

How to Make Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent the scallops from sticking.

2. Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture

In a small bowl, mix the melted butter and minced garlic together. This creates the rich, flavorful base that will coat the scallops and enhance their natural sweetness.

3. Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping

In another bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley. This mixture will form the crispy, golden topping that makes these baked scallops so irresistible.

4. Arrange the Scallops

Place the patted-dry scallops in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. Make sure they are not overcrowded, as this ensures even cooking and a perfectly golden crust.

5. Coat with Butter and Breadcrumbs

Drizzle the garlic butter mixture evenly over the scallops. Then, sprinkle the breadcrumb-Parmesan topping over each scallop, ensuring they are well-coated for a crispy, flavorful bite.

6. Bake the Scallops

Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the scallops are opaque, tender, and slightly golden on top. Be careful not to overcook them, as scallops can become rubbery if left in the oven for too long.

7. Add Fresh Lemon Juice and Serve

Once baked, remove the scallops from the oven and squeeze fresh lemon juice over them for a burst of brightness. Garnish with additional parsley and lemon wedges, then serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Helpful Tips for Perfect Baked Scallops

Choose Dry Scallops: Look for “dry-packed” scallops, as they don’t contain added preservatives or water, allowing them to sear and bake perfectly.
Pat Dry Before Baking: Removing excess moisture ensures that the scallops get a crispy golden crust rather than steaming in the oven.
Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides a much bolder and more aromatic flavor than pre-minced or garlic powder.
Don’t Overcook: Scallops should be tender and slightly opaque. Overcooking can make them rubbery and tough.
Broil for Extra Crispiness: For a golden, crispy top, broil the scallops for 1-2 minutes after baking.

Cooking Tips

To elevate your Garlic Butter Baked Scallops, try these additional cooking tips:

Upgrade the Breadcrumbs: Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs for an even crunchier texture.
Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a touch of heat.
Add More Citrus Flavor: Try zesting a little lemon peel into the butter mixture for extra brightness.
Pair with White Wine: A splash of dry white wine in the baking dish enhances the scallops’ natural sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

These buttery, garlicky scallops pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Serve them with:

Garlic Butter Pasta – Toss cooked pasta with extra garlic butter sauce for a full meal.
Rice Pilaf – A light, fluffy rice pilaf complements the richness of the scallops.
Grilled Vegetables – Asparagus, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts add a fresh, healthy touch.
Crusty Bread – Perfect for soaking up every last drop of the buttery garlic sauce.

Nutritional Information

Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving of Garlic Butter Baked Scallops:

Calories: 250
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 55mg
Sodium: 420mg
Fiber: 1g
Vitamin A: 8%
Vitamin C: 15%
Calcium: 10%
Iron: 6%

Storage & Leftovers

Refrigerate: Store leftover scallops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Reheat: Warm leftovers in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes to keep them tender. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the scallops rubbery.
Freezing Not Recommended: Scallops lose their delicate texture when frozen and reheated, so it’s best to enjoy them fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

What’s the best scallop variety for this recipe?
Large sea scallops work best, as they bake evenly and retain their juiciness.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prep the garlic butter and breadcrumb mixture in advance, but bake the scallops fresh for the best texture.

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Conclusion

These Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are an easy yet luxurious seafood dish that brings restaurant-quality flavor to your home. With a buttery garlic sauce, crispy breadcrumb topping, and fresh lemon juice, this dish is guaranteed to impress. Try it today and enjoy a rich, flavorful seafood experience! 🦪🍋