🦪 Garlic Butter Baked Scallops
Introduction
Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are the perfect blend of simplicity and sophistication — sweet, tender sea scallops baked in a rich, golden garlic butter sauce with a light breadcrumb topping. This dish is restaurant-quality yet incredibly easy to make at home.
Each bite melts in your mouth with buttery goodness, garlicky aroma, and just the right touch of lemon. Whether for a romantic dinner, holiday feast, or quick seafood craving, these scallops never disappoint.
Ingredients and Quantities
Serves: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) sea scallops, cleaned and patted dry
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (Panko preferred for crunch)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (plus more for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: ¼ teaspoon paprika or cayenne pepper (for a light spice and color)
Optional Additions
- Add zest: A touch of lemon or orange zest for brightness.
- Wine flavor: Stir in 2 tablespoons of white wine to the butter sauce.
- Herbal touch: Add fresh thyme, dill, or chives.
- Crispy top: Mix crushed Ritz crackers with breadcrumbs for a richer topping.
Tips for Success
- Pat scallops completely dry — this ensures a perfect golden finish.
- Don’t overbake! Scallops turn rubbery if cooked too long.
- Use real butter and fresh garlic — they define the flavor.
- Broil briefly at the end to create a crisp, golden crust.
- Serve immediately — scallops are best hot and tender right out of the oven.
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Lightly grease a small baking dish or ovenproof skillet.
2. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
- In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and paprika (if using).
- Stir until well mixed and aromatic.
3. Prepare the Scallops
- Arrange scallops in a single layer in the baking dish.
- Pour the garlic butter sauce evenly over the scallops, ensuring each is well coated.
4. Add the Topping
- In a separate bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley.
- Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the scallops.
5. Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, until scallops are opaque and just cooked through.
- For a golden finish, switch to broil mode and cook for an additional 1–2 minutes (watch closely!).
6. Serve
- Garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice.
- Serve immediately with crusty bread, pasta, or a fresh green salad.
Description
These Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are rich, tender, and bursting with flavor. The garlic butter seeps into the scallops as they bake, keeping them juicy, while the breadcrumb-Parmesan crust adds the perfect crunchy contrast.
It’s a dish that feels both indulgent and comforting — the kind of recipe that impresses guests yet requires minimal effort.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving — Serves 4)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~260 kcal |
| Protein | 22 g |
| Total Fat | 15 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8 g |
| Carbohydrates | 9 g |
| Sugars | 0 g |
| Fiber | 0.5 g |
| Sodium | 410 mg |
| Cholesterol | 65 mg |
(Approximate values; will vary based on ingredients used.)
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are the epitome of elegant simplicity — fresh seafood enhanced by classic, timeless flavors. The butter and garlic create richness, while lemon and herbs add a refreshing lift.
This recipe transforms a handful of ingredients into a gourmet experience — perfect for date nights, dinner parties, or treating yourself to something special.
Recommendation
- Serve with: Garlic mashed potatoes, angel hair pasta, or roasted asparagus.
- Pair with: A crisp white wine like Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, or Pinot Grigio.
- Storage: Best enjoyed fresh. If needed, store leftovers up to 2 days in the fridge and reheat gently in the oven.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
Scallops are naturally lean, high-protein, and rich in omega-3s, making them one of the healthiest seafood options. While butter adds indulgence, this dish remains balanced and wholesome.
To make it lighter:
- Use half butter, half olive oil.
- Reduce breadcrumbs or use whole-grain for added fiber.
- Serve with steamed vegetables or a light salad to complete the meal.