Name: Garlic Butter Baked Scallops
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
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).

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are a delicious and elegant seafood dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. This easy recipe features large scallops coated in a rich garlic butter sauce and topped with a crispy mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley. The scallops are baked until tender and juicy, with a golden-brown topping that adds the perfect crunch. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice enhances the flavors and balances the richness of the butter. With minimal prep and quick cooking time, this dish is both simple and impressive, making it ideal for a fancy dinner without the fuss. Serve with lemon wedges for an extra burst of freshness.

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are a luxurious yet simple dish that is perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The combination of tender scallops, rich garlic butter, and a crispy Parmesan breadcrumb topping makes this meal a hit every time. Whether you're a seafood lover or looking to impress guests, these baked scallops are a quick and elegant solution that’s easy to prepare.

INGREDIENTS

Scallops: 1 lb of large, fresh scallops forms the base of this dish. Pat them dry to ensure they cook evenly and develop a perfect texture.
Butter: 4 tablespoons of melted butter are used to coat the scallops and create a rich, flavorful base.
Garlic: 3 cloves of minced garlic add a robust flavor to the butter sauce.
Breadcrumbs: 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs create a crispy topping that contrasts beautifully with the tender scallops.
Parmesan Cheese: 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese adds a savory, nutty flavor to the breadcrumb topping.
Fresh Parsley: 1 tablespoon of chopped parsley adds freshness and color to the dish.
Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon of lemon juice brightens the flavors and balances the richness of the butter.
Salt and Pepper: Season to taste for the perfect balance of flavors.
Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges for an extra burst of fresh citrus flavor.

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure that the scallops bake evenly and the breadcrumb topping crisps perfectly.
Step 2:: In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. This garlic butter mixture will add flavor and moisture to the scallops as they bake.
Step 3:: Arrange the scallops in a single layer in a baking dish. Make sure the scallops are dry by patting them with a paper towel. This helps them cook evenly and prevents excess moisture from watering down the sauce.
Step 4:: Pour the garlic butter mixture over the scallops, ensuring that each one is well-coated. The garlic and butter will seep into the scallops, infusing them with flavor as they bake.
Step 5:: In a separate bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley. This mixture will create a crispy, golden topping that complements the soft texture of the scallops.
Step 6:: Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the scallops. Make sure each scallop is topped with a generous amount for the perfect bite.
Step 7:: Bake the scallops in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the scallops are opaque and cooked through. The breadcrumb topping should be golden brown and crispy.
Step 8:: Once baked, remove the scallops from the oven and serve immediately. Garnish with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for added flavor and presentation.

Serving and Storage Tips

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are best served immediately after baking while the scallops are tender and the topping is still crispy. Pair them with lemon wedges for an extra burst of citrus.
These scallops pair beautifully with light side dishes like steamed vegetables, rice pilaf, or a simple green salad to balance the richness of the butter sauce.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes, just until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the scallops rubbery.

Helpful Notes

Make sure to pat the scallops dry before cooking. Excess moisture can prevent them from browning and cause them to steam rather than bake.
If you'd like a crispier topping, broil the scallops for the last 1-2 minutes of baking. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
For a gluten-free version, substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.

Tips from well-known chefs

Chef Thomas Keller recommends using fresh, large sea scallops for the best flavor and texture. Avoid small bay scallops, as they cook too quickly and can easily become overdone.
Chef Jamie Oliver suggests adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture for a subtle kick of heat that complements the sweetness of the scallops.
Chef Ina Garten recommends finishing the dish with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for an extra layer of richness and flavor.