Garlic Butter Baked Scallops: A Delicious and Easy Recipe to Impress Your Guests

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are a delightful seafood dish that never fails to impress. As someone who has always been captivated by the ocean’s bounty, I find that this recipe perfectly captures the essence of coastal cuisine. The combination of tender scallops, rich garlic butter, and a hint of lemon creates a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. Historically, scallops have been a prized catch in many cultures, often associated with celebrations and special occasions. It’s no wonder that people love Garlic Butter Baked Scallops; they offer a luxurious taste and texture that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly easy to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself to a gourmet meal at home, this dish is sure to elevate your dining experience.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound fresh scallops, cleaned and patted dry
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Preparing the Scallops

1. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your scallops cook evenly and get that lovely golden color on top. 2. While the oven is heating, take your fresh scallops and rinse them under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial because excess moisture can prevent them from browning properly in the oven. 3. In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix everything together until well combined. The aroma of garlic and butter will already start to fill your kitchen, and trust me, it’s just the beginning!

Preparing the Topping

4. In another bowl, mix the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. This mixture will create a deliciously crunchy topping for your scallops. 5. Pour half of the garlic butter mixture into the breadcrumb and cheese mixture. Stir until the breadcrumbs are well coated. This will help the topping to brown beautifully in the oven.

Assembling the Dish

6. Now, it’s time to assemble everything. Take a baking dish and lightly grease it with a bit of the remaining garlic butter mixture to prevent sticking. 7. Arrange the scallops in a single layer in the baking dish. Make sure they are not overcrowded; this will help them cook evenly. 8. Spoon the remaining garlic butter mixture over the scallops, ensuring each one is generously coated. The butter will infuse the scallops with flavor as they bake. 9. Finally, sprinkle the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture evenly over the scallops. Make sure each scallop is covered with a nice layer of the crunchy topping. This is where the magic happens!

Baking the Scallops

10. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. You’ll want to keep an eye on them; the scallops should be opaque and firm to the touch, and the topping should be golden brown and crispy. 11. If you want an extra crispy topping, you can switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes. Just be sure to watch them closely to prevent burning.

Serving the Scallops

12. Once the scallops are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them sit for a minute or two. This will allow the flavors to settle. 13. Garnish with additional chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. You can also add a few lemon wedges on the side for an extra zing when serving. 14. Serve the garlic butter baked scallops warm, either as an appetizer or a main dish. They pair beautifully with a light salad or some crusty bread to soak up all that delicious garlic butter.

Tips for Perfect Scallops

– **Choosing Scallops**: When selecting scallops, look for ones that are firm and have a sweet, briny smell. Avoid any that have a strong fishy odor. – **Don’t Overcook**: Scallops cook quickly, so be careful not to overdo it. They should be just opaque in the center when done. – **Variations**: Feel free to experiment with different herbs or spices in the garlic butter mixture. Thyme, oregano, or even a bit of smoked paprika can add a unique twist to the flavor profile. Enjoy your delicious garlic butter baked scallops! They are sure to impress anyone you serve them to, and they’re a fantastic way to enjoy the delicate flavor of scallops. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

In summary, this Garlic Butter Baked Scallops recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to impress at their next dinner party or simply indulge in a delicious seafood dish at home. The combination of tender scallops, rich garlic butter, and a hint of lemon creates a flavor profile that is both elegant and comforting. Plus, the ease of preparation means you can whip this up even on a busy weeknight! For serving suggestions, I recommend pairing these scallops with a light, crisp salad or some roasted asparagus to complement the richness of the dish. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also experiment with variations by adding a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top before baking or incorporating fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for an extra burst of flavor. I truly encourage you to give this Garlic Butter Baked Scallops recipe a try. I promise you won’t be disappointed! Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, any tweaks you made, or even a photo of your delicious creation. Let’s celebrate the joy of cooking together! Print