Garlic Butter Baked Scallops is a luxurious seafood dish that’s surprisingly easy to make. Scallops, known for their delicate sweetness and tender texture, pair beautifully with the rich, savory flavor of garlic butter and the crispy, cheesy breadcrumb topping. This dish makes an elegant appetizer, a delicious main course, or even a fancy dish for special occasions like anniversaries and holidays.
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- Quick and Easy: This dish is ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining.
- Versatile: Works great as an appetizer, main dish, or even part of a seafood platter.
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of garlic, butter, lemon, and Parmesan is a classic that never fails to impress.
- Restaurant Quality at Home: Impress your guests with this sophisticated dish that looks and tastes like it came from a high-end restaurant.
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Here’s everything you need to make these amazing Garlic Butter Baked Scallops:
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- 1 lb large scallops, patted dry – Use fresh or thawed frozen scallops. Make sure they’re well dried to achieve the best texture.
- 4 tbsp butter, melted – Butter adds richness and helps to create a luxurious sauce.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic infuses the dish with bold, aromatic flavor.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice – Adds brightness and acidity, balancing the richness of the butter.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential seasonings that enhance all the flavors.
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- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs – Use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs for a crispy, crunchy topping.
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated – Adds a salty, nutty flavor that complements the scallops perfectly.
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped – Adds a fresh, herbal note and a pop of color.
- Lemon wedges (for serving) – Optional, but a squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the finished dish.
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Follow these steps for perfect Garlic Butter Baked Scallops every time.
- Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the scallops cook quickly and evenly, developing a lovely golden crust.
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a medium-sized baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. This prevents the scallops from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Pat Dry the Scallops: Use paper towels to pat the scallops dry. Removing excess moisture helps them cook properly without steaming, allowing them to get that nice, slightly crisp edge.
- Season the Scallops: Arrange the scallops in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle the melted butter over the scallops, then sprinkle minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper evenly over them. Toss gently to coat.
- Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the scallops. This topping adds a wonderful texture contrast and enhances the dish with cheesy goodness.
- Bake the Scallops: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the scallops are opaque and the topping is golden brown. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on the size of your scallops, so keep an eye on them.
- Serve Immediately: Once the scallops are done, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a minute. Serve hot with lemon wedges for squeezing over the top. Pair with crusty bread, pasta, or a light salad for a complete meal.
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- Choose the Right Scallops: For best results, use large sea scallops. If using frozen, thaw them completely in the refrigerator and pat dry before using.
- Don’t Overcook: Scallops cook very quickly; overcooking can make them tough and rubbery. Bake just until they are opaque and the topping is golden.
- Customize the Topping: Try adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for some heat, or switch up the herbs to match your taste preferences.
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- Garlic Butter Shrimp: Swap scallops for shrimp, and follow the same instructions for a different take on this classic recipe.
- Herb-Infused Butter: Add fresh thyme or basil to the melted butter for extra flavor.
- Citrus Twist: Replace the lemon juice with orange or lime juice for a unique citrus twist.
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If you have leftovers (although that’s rare because they’re so delicious!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a low oven (around 300°F/150°C) until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it can overcook the scallops.
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- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh garlic and lemon juice rather than pre-minced garlic or bottled lemon juice.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko crumbs for a gluten-free version of this dish.
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Each serving of Garlic Butter Baked Scallops provides approximately:
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
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Q: Can I make this dish in advance? A: It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the scallops with the butter and garlic, cover, and refrigerate. Add the topping and bake just before serving.
Q: What can I serve with Garlic Butter Baked Scallops? A: These scallops are delicious served over pasta, risotto, or alongside a simple green salad and some crusty bread for soaking up the garlic butter.
Q: Can I use bay scallops instead of sea scallops? A: Yes, but keep in mind that bay scallops are smaller and will cook even faster, so adjust the baking time accordingly.
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Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are a decadent and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any seafood lover. With their buttery sauce, crispy topping, and tender scallops, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just treating yourself to something special, this dish delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort.
Enjoy this indulgent, easy-to-make recipe that brings the fresh, vibrant flavors of the ocean straight to your table!