Introduction
Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are a delicious and sophisticated dish that can elevate any meal. Perfect for a special occasion or a simple weeknight dinner, this recipe combines the rich.
delicate flavor of scallops with the savory goodness of garlic butter and a crispy breadcrumb topping.
It’s easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients, yet it packs a punch of flavor that will impress your guests.
Ingredients
Ingredients
1 lb large scallops, patted dry
4 tbsp butter, melted
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tbsp lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking dish by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper.
This will prevent the scallops from sticking and help with easy cleanup after baking. Arrange the scallops in a single layer in the prepared dish.
In a small bowl, melt the butter and then add the minced garlic. Stir the garlic into the butter to allow its flavor to infuse. Pour the garlic butter over the scallops, ensuring each one is well-coated.
In another small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley. Stir everything together and then sprinkle.
the mixture evenly over the scallops. This creates a golden, crispy topping that will add a delicious crunch to each bite.
Next, drizzle the lemon juice over the scallops and season them with salt and pepper to taste. The acidity of the lemon will.
balance the richness of the butter and garlic, giving the dish a refreshing finish.
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the scallops for about 12-15 minutes or until the scallops are opaque and the breadcrumb topping is golden and crispy.
Be careful not to overcook them, as scallops can become tough if left in the oven too long.
Once the scallops are done, remove them from the oven and serve immediately. Garnish with extra chopped.
parsley and lemon wedges for an added touch of flavor. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad.
How to Make
To ensure your Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are a hit, start with fresh, high-quality scallops. The fresher the scallops, the better the final dish will taste.
When prepping the scallops, make sure they are completely dry before baking to avoid excess moisture. This is crucial for achieving that golden, crispy crust on top.
The garlic butter mixture is key to infusing the scallops with rich flavor. Don’t skimp on the garlic! It should be finely minced to ensure that the flavor disperses evenly.
The butter should be melted but not hot, as you don’t want to cook the garlic too quickly. Stir the garlic into the butter while it’s still warm to release its essential oils without burning it.
For the breadcrumb topping, use fresh breadcrumbs if possible. You can make your own by pulsing.
day-old bread in a food processor, or you can use store-bought breadcrumbs. The breadcrumbs provide a lovely texture, so be sure to coat the scallops generously with them.
For added depth of flavor, try to use freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than the pre-shredded kind.
Freshly grated cheese melts better and provides a more intense flavor, which will enhance the overall dish.
Lemon juice is essential for balancing the richness of the butter and garlic, so don’t skip it! A squeeze of fresh lemon.
juice over the finished dish will brighten up the flavors and give it a refreshing tang. The lemon wedges also allow each person to add more to taste.
Baking the scallops for just the right amount of time is essential. Overbaking can result in rubbery, tough scallops.
while underbaking may leave them raw. When baked correctly, the scallops should be tender, juicy, and perfectly cooked.
Finally, serve your garlic butter scallops immediately after they come out of the oven for the best texture and flavor.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for an extra burst of flavor.
Variations
If you want to try something different, consider adding some heat to the garlic butter by including red pepper flakes or chopped fresh chili.
This adds a spicy kick that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the scallops. Adjust the amount of spice to suit your preference.
For a more decadent version of this dish, you can add a small amount of heavy cream or cream cheese to the garlic butter mixture.
creating a richer sauce that complements the scallops. This will give the dish a creamy texture that’s perfect for indulgent nights.
If you’re looking to add more flavor complexity, a touch of white wine or dry vermouth can be added to the butter before baking.
The wine will create a depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of the scallops.
For a slightly healthier variation, you could swap out the breadcrumbs for a low-carb alternative such as almond flour or crushedrinds.
This will still give you the crispy texture but with fewer carbs for those following a keto or gluten-free diet.
You can also experiment with different herbs. In place of parsley, try using thyme, basil, or dill for a different flavor profile. Each herb brings a unique aromatic element that will change the dish’s overall taste.
If you’re looking to serve a larger group, consider making a scallop casserole by layering the scallops with the garlic butter and breadcrumb mixture in a baking .
dish and baking them until golden. This could be a great family-style presentation for a dinner party.
For a more rustic presentation, consider serving the scallops in their shells (if available) and baking them in the shell, which adds both charm and a unique twist to the dish.
Tips
To ensure the scallops cook perfectly, always make sure they are thoroughly dried before placing them in the baking dish.
Excess moisture can cause them to steam instead of bake, which will prevent them from developing that beautiful golden crust.
Using fresh garlic rather than garlic powder will make a huge difference in the flavor of the dish. Fresh garlic provides a stronger.
more aromatic taste, which complements the delicate flavor of the scallops.
If you don’t have breadcrumbs on hand, you can use crushed crackers or even crushed cornflakes as a substitute.
Both will provide a crunchy texture to the dish, adding a satisfying contrast to the tender scallops.
For a faster version of this recipe, you can broil the scallops instead of baking them. This method will give you a similar crispy topping without the need to wait for the oven to preheat.
Just be sure to watch the scallops closely, as broiling can cook them very quickly.
If you’re preparing this dish in advance, you can prep the scallops and garlic butter mixture ahead of time.
Simply refrigerate them separately and then bake them when ready to serve. This is a great time-saving trick if you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing for a busy evening.
If you’re unsure if the scallops are done, you can check their texture by gently pressing on one with a fork.
When they’re cooked through, they should feel firm but still moist. If they feel rubbery or soft, they may need more time.
For added visual appeal, garnish your finished dish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a few extra sprigs of fresh parsley before serving. It’s a simple touch that can elevate the presentation of the dish.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are a delightful, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of buttery garlic sauce.
crispy breadcrumbs, and tender scallops makes for a delicious meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re preparing it for a casual dinner or a special celebration, this recipe is sure to impress.
With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can make this dish in no time. Plus, there are plenty of variations to try, ensuring that you can make it your own each time you prepare it. Enjoy!