Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are an irresistible seafood treat, combining delicate scallops with rich garlic butter, crispy breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese. They’re quick to prepare and offer restaurant-quality flavor with minimal ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large scallops (patted dry)
- 4 tablespoon butter (melted)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Mix melted butter, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Arrange scallops in a greased baking dish and pour butter mixture over them.
- Combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and parsley; sprinkle over scallops.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until scallops are opaque and topping is golden.
- Serve with lemon wedges.
Servings and Timing
- Serves: 4
- Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Variations
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option.
- Add a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use frozen scallops?
Yes, just thaw them and pat dry before cooking.
What kind of breadcrumbs should I use?
Panko breadcrumbs give the crispiest result, but regular breadcrumbs work too.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, by using gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Can I substitute the butter?
Olive oil can be used as a lighter alternative.
How do I know when scallops are done?
They should be opaque and firm to the touch.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the garlic butter and topping in advance.
Can I use smaller scallops?
Yes, adjust the cooking time slightly if using smaller scallops.
How do I prevent overcooking the scallops?
Keep a close eye on them and remove them from the oven as soon as they are opaque.
What can I serve with garlic butter baked scallops?
Garlic mashed potatoes, steamed asparagus, or a light salad are great choices.
Are scallops healthy?
Yes, they are a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
Conclusion
This Garlic Butter Baked Scallops recipe is perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a decadent meal at home. Simple, flavorful, and quick, it's a seafood dish that will become a favorite.
Garlic Butter Baked Scallops – Easy, Flavorful Recipe
Indulge in these Garlic Butter Baked Scallops, a simple yet flavorful seafood dish with tender scallops baked in a rich garlic butter sauce, crispy breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese. This easy recipe delivers restaurant-quality taste in just minutes—perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Total Time: 15-17 minute
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner, Seafood
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
Ingredients
- 1 lb large scallops (patted dry)
- 4 tbsp butter (melted)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Arrange scallops in a greased baking dish and pour the butter mixture over them.
- In another bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and parsley; sprinkle over the scallops.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the scallops are opaque and the topping is golden brown.
- Serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Notes
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a slight heat.
- Ensure scallops are not overcooked—they should be firm yet tender.
