📝 Introduction
Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are a luxurious yet simple seafood dish that combines the tender sweetness of scallops with the rich, savory flavor of garlic-infused butter. Finished with a touch of lemon and a crisp topping, this dish makes a perfect appetizer or main course served with crusty bread, pasta, or over risotto. Whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself to a fancy night in, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort.
🛒 Ingredients
For the Scallops:
- 1 lb (450g) sea scallops (fresh or thawed if frozen)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons dry white wine or chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
For the Garlic Butter:
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Topping:
- 1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
🍳 Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Lightly grease a baking dish or oven-safe skillet that will snugly hold the scallops in a single layer.
2. Prepare the Scallops
- If using frozen scallops, ensure they are completely thawed.
- Pat the scallops dry with paper towels to help them brown and bake evenly.
- Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Place scallops in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
- Drizzle with white wine and lemon juice.
3. Make the Garlic Butter
- In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, lemon zest, parsley, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Spoon the mixture evenly over the scallops.
4. Add the Topping
- In another small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil.
- Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the scallops.
5. Bake
- Place the dish in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the scallops are opaque and just cooked through. The topping should be golden brown.
- Optionally, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end to get a crispier top — keep a close eye to avoid burning.
6. Serve
- Garnish with extra chopped parsley and a wedge of lemon.
- Serve immediately with crusty bread, pasta, or a side salad.
👩🍳 Tips & Methods
- Scallops Cooking Tip: Do not overcook! Scallops cook quickly and become rubbery if left in the oven too long.
- Fresh vs. Frozen: Fresh scallops are ideal, but high-quality frozen scallops work well too — just ensure they’re thoroughly thawed and dried before baking.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve over linguine tossed with olive oil and herbs, creamy risotto, or a bed of sautéed spinach.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs for the panko.
🍽️ Final Thoughts
This Garlic Butter Baked Scallops recipe is proof that gourmet doesn’t have to be complicated. With rich flavors, tender seafood, and a crisp, golden topping, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Perfect for dinner parties, date nights, or just treating yourself to something special at home.