Garlic Butter Baked Scallops Recipe
Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are an elegant yet surprisingly easy seafood dish that brings restaurant-quality flavor straight to your home kitchen. Tender scallops baked in rich garlic butter, topped with light breadcrumbs and herbs, create a dish that is juicy, aromatic, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re preparing a special dinner, holiday meal, or simply want a quick gourmet recipe, baked scallops are always a winning choice.
This recipe highlights the natural sweetness of scallops while enhancing them with garlic, butter, and a hint of lemon. Best of all, it takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Garlic butter baked scallops are loved for their simplicity and bold flavor. They require minimal prep, cook quickly, and look beautiful when served. This dish is perfect for:
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Dinner parties and special occasions
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Romantic meals
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Quick yet elegant weeknight dinners
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Seafood lovers
Because scallops cook fast, baking them ensures they stay tender without becoming rubbery.
Ingredients
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1 lb sea scallops (fresh or thawed, patted dry)
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4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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½ teaspoon paprika
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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½ cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred)
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2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
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1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Optional:
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Lemon slices for garnish
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Red chili flakes for heat
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir until well combined. This flavorful butter is the key to juicy scallops.
Step 3: Arrange the Scallops
Place the scallops in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. Make sure they are evenly spaced and not overlapping.
Step 4: Add the Butter Mixture
Spoon the garlic butter mixture evenly over the scallops, making sure each scallop is well coated.
Step 5: Prepare the Topping
In another bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the scallops for a golden, crispy topping.
Baking the Scallops
Step 6: Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the scallops are opaque and tender. For a more golden top, switch the oven to broil for the last 1–2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
Serving Suggestions
Serve garlic butter baked scallops immediately while hot. They pair beautifully with:
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Steamed rice or risotto
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Garlic mashed potatoes
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Pasta or buttered noodles
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Fresh green salad or roasted vegetables
Drizzle with extra lemon juice just before serving for added brightness.
Storage and Reheating Tips
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Scallops are best enjoyed fresh
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Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days
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Reheat gently in the oven at low temperature to avoid overcooking
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Avoid microwaving, as it can make scallops tough
Variations and Tips
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Extra Garlic Flavor: Add roasted garlic to the butter
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Herb Twist: Use thyme, dill, or basil instead of parsley
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Cheesy Upgrade: Add mozzarella along with Parmesan
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Low-Carb Option: Skip breadcrumbs and use almond flour
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Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes
Final Thoughts
These Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are the perfect blend of simplicity and elegance. With tender scallops, rich garlic butter, and a crispy topping, this dish delivers incredible flavor in every bite. Whether served as an appetizer or main course, it’s a recipe that will impress guests and satisfy seafood cravings.