Description
Savor the rich flavors of Garlic Butter Baked Scallops, featuring tender scallops topped with a crispy breadcrumb mixture infused with garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs. This elegant dish is perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Rinse the fresh scallops under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- In a medium bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well.
- In another bowl, mix breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Pour half of the garlic butter mixture into the breadcrumb and cheese mixture, stirring until well coated.
- Lightly grease a baking dish with the remaining garlic butter mixture.
- Arrange the scallops in a single layer in the baking dish.
- Spoon the remaining garlic butter mixture over the scallops, ensuring each one is coated.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture evenly over the scallops.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until scallops are opaque and topping is golden brown.
- For an extra crispy topping, switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Remove from the oven and let sit for a minute. Garnish with additional chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
Notes
- Choosing Scallops: Look for firm scallops with a sweet, briny smell. Avoid those with a strong fishy odor.
- Don’t Overcook: Scallops should be just opaque in the center when done.
- Variations: Experiment with different herbs or spices in the garlic butter mixture, such as thyme or smoked paprika.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes