Irresistible Garlic Butter Baked Scallops Recipe for Seafood Lovers

Succulent garlic butter baked scallops promise a seafood experience that melts in your mouth with luxurious simplicity.

Mediterranean coastal kitchens inspired this elegant dish that feels like a gourmet secret.

Delicate ocean treasures transform when brushed with rich, herbed butter and kissed by gentle heat.

Each tender morsel carries complex layers of flavor waiting to surprise you.

Minimal ingredients combine for maximum impact in this restaurant-quality recipe.

Sophisticated yet incredibly easy, these scallops invite culinary confidence without complicated techniques.

Prepare to impress with a plate that whispers elegance and screams deliciousness.

Why Garlic Butter Baked Scallops Are a Favorite (repeat)

• Savor Gourmet Simplicity: Transform basic ingredients into a restaurant-worthy dish with minimal cooking skills required.
• Customize Your Flavor Adventure: Adjust spice levels by adding or reducing cayenne pepper to match personal taste preferences.
• Speed Up Your Dinner Prep: Complete the entire recipe from start to finish in under half an hour, perfect for busy home cooks.
• Crowd-Pleasing Seafood Option: Impress guests or family with a luxurious protein that's both elegant and approachable for all ages.

Ingredients Needed for Garlic Butter Baked Scallops (repeat)

• Scallops: Delicate, tender seafood that serves as the star of this delicious dish.

• Butter: Provides rich, creamy flavor and helps coat the scallops.
• Garlic: Adds a sharp, aromatic taste that complements the seafood.
• Lemon Juice: Brings bright, citrusy freshness to balance the rich butter.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall flavor profile.
• Paprika: Adds a subtle smoky warmth to the dish.
• Cayenne Pepper: Optional ingredient that provides a spicy kick.

• Panko Breadcrumbs, Parmesan Cheese: Create a crispy, golden crust that adds texture.
• Parsley: Fresh herb that provides a pop of color and light herbal note.

Step-by-Step Garlic Butter Baked Scallops Instructions (repeat)

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Turn your oven to 375°F (190°C) and get ready to create a delicious seafood masterpiece. Position the rack in the middle of the oven for even cooking.

Step 2: Arrange Scallops

Place fresh scallops in a single layer within a baking dish, ensuring they aren’t overlapping. This helps them cook evenly and develop a beautiful golden exterior.

Step 3: Create Flavor Explosion

• Melted butter
• Minced garlic
• Fresh lemon juice
• Paprika
• Cayenne pepper
• Salt
• Black pepper

Gently brush this incredible mixture over each scallop, making sure every piece gets coated with the aromatic blend.

Step 4: Prepare Crunchy Topping

• Panko breadcrumbs
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Freshly chopped parsley

Mix the ingredients until they’re well integrated and look tantalizingly golden.

Step 5: Add Crispy Layer

Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture generously over the butter-coated scallops, creating a delectable crunchy blanket.

Step 6: Bake To Perfection

Slide the baking dish into the preheated oven and cook for 12-15 minutes. Watch for the scallops to turn opaque and the topping to transform into a gorgeous golden-brown crust.

Step 7: Serve And Enjoy

Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh lemon wedges. The citrusy brightness will complement the rich, buttery scallops perfectly.

Pro Tips for Garlic Butter Baked Scallops (repeat)

• Select fresh, dry-packed scallops for the best flavor and texture, avoiding watery or pre-soaked varieties.
• Pat scallops completely dry with paper towels before cooking to achieve a perfect golden-brown crust and prevent steaming.
• Use unsalted butter to control salt levels and prevent the dish from becoming too salty.
• Adjust cayenne pepper amount based on your spice tolerance, adding more for heat or omitting for a milder version.
• Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs for a celiac-friendly option without compromising the crispy topping.

Variations to Try with Garlic Butter Baked Scallops (repeat)

• Spicy Mediterranean Scallops: Replace cayenne with red pepper flakes, add oregano and diced sun-dried tomatoes to the breadcrumb mixture for a Mediterranean flavor profile.
• Herb-Crusted Scallop Delight: Swap parsley with fresh thyme, rosemary, and basil. Use herbed breadcrumbs and add lemon zest for extra brightness.
• Coconut Curry Scallops: Mix coconut milk into butter, add mild curry powder and grated ginger. Top with toasted coconut flakes instead of traditional breadcrumbs.
• Bacon-Wrapped Scallop Version: Wrap each scallop with a thin bacon slice before brushing with garlic butter. Reduce baking time to 10-12 minutes to prevent overcooking.

Pairing Ideas for Garlic Butter Baked Scallops (repeat)

• Pair Zesty White Wine: Select a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio that complements the garlic butter's richness and cuts through the scallops' delicate flavor.
• Serve with Crusty Bread: Grab a fresh baguette or artisan sourdough to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce, adding texture and enhancing the overall dining experience.
• Match with Citrus Salad: Create a light arugula salad with fresh lemon segments, helping to balance the rich buttery scallops and provide a refreshing contrast to the dish.
• Complement with Chilled Seafood Starter: Begin the meal with a light seafood appetizer like shrimp cocktail or ceviche to set the oceanic tone and prepare palates for the main scallop course.

Proper Storage for Garlic Butter Baked Scallops (repeat)

• Store leftover scallops in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep the dish covered to prevent drying out and absorbing other food odors.
• Carefully transfer scallops to a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. Freeze for maximum 1 month to maintain best texture and flavor.
• Preheat oven to 275F, place scallops in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm for 5-7 minutes to prevent overcooking and preserve moisture.
• Reheat in short 15-20 second intervals, checking between each interval to avoid rubbery texture. Add a small splash of water to help retain tenderness.

FAQs About Garlic Butter Baked Scallops (repeat)

• Are scallops healthy to eat?

Scallops are an excellent source of protein, low in calories, and packed with essential nutrients like vitamin B12, omega-3 fatty acids, and minerals that support heart and brain health.

• How do I know when scallops are cooked properly?

Look for an opaque white color and a firm texture. Overcooked scallops become rubbery and tough, so watch carefully during baking to maintain their delicate texture.

• Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?

Yes, but thaw them completely in the refrigerator first, then pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture before baking to ensure a crispy, golden topping.

Moist Garlic Butter Baked Scallops Recipe

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4.7 from 24 reviews

• Total Time: 22-25 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Succulent garlic butter baked scallops bring coastal elegance to dinner tables with minimal effort. Marine sweetness mingles with rich herbed butter, creating a restaurant-worthy dish perfect for intimate gatherings or special occasions.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 1 pound (454 grams) sea scallops, cleaned and patted dry
• 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup (30 grams) grated Parmesan cheese

Butter and Seasoning:

• 4 tablespoons (60 milliliters) unsalted butter, melted
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Garnish:

• 2 tablespoons (8 grams) fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges, for serving

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven at 375F (190C) and position a baking dish to accommodate scallops in a single, uniform layer.
2. Create a luxurious garlic butter sauce by whisking together melted butter, minced garlic, zesty lemon juice, smoky paprika, fiery cayenne pepper, and a balanced blend of salt and pepper.
3. Generously coat each scallop with the aromatic garlic butter mixture, ensuring complete and even coverage.
4. Craft a crispy topping by combining crunchy panko breadcrumbs with nutty Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley.
5. Distribute the seasoned breadcrumb mixture evenly across the scallops, creating a golden, textured crust.
6. Slide the prepared dish into the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, watching for translucent scallops and a perfectly bronzed topping.
7. Garnish with bright, tangy lemon wedges to enhance the seafood’s delicate flavor profile.

Notes

• Opt for fresh, dry-packed scallops to achieve a perfect golden-brown sear and prevent excess water release during baking.
• Pat scallops completely dry with paper towels before seasoning to ensure crispy, caramelized exterior and prevent steaming.
• Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs for a celiac-friendly version, maintaining the same crunchy texture and flavor profile.
• Use clarified butter or ghee for a richer taste and higher smoke point, which helps create a more even golden crust on the scallops.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 235 kcal
• Sugar: 0.5 g
• Sodium: 290 mg
• Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 10 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 18 g
• Cholesterol: 55 mg