Introduction (short)
Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are a restaurant-quality dish made effortlessly at home. Juicy, tender scallops are baked in a rich garlic butter sauce until perfectly golden and flavorful. It’s a quick and elegant seafood recipe perfect for special occasions or weeknight indulgence.
Ingredients
1 pound (450 g) large sea scallops, cleaned and patted dry
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Lightly grease a small baking dish or oven-safe skillet with butter or oil.
In a bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
Arrange the scallops evenly in the baking dish.
Pour the garlic butter mixture over the scallops, coating them well.
Sprinkle breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper on top.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the scallops are opaque and cooked through.
Turn on the broiler for the last 1–2 minutes to brown the top lightly.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
How to Make
- Prep the scallops – Clean and dry them well; this helps them bake evenly and prevents excess moisture.
- Make the garlic butter – Mix butter, garlic, and lemon to infuse flavor.
- Assemble and bake – Combine scallops with the sauce, top with breadcrumbs and cheese, then bake to golden perfection.
- Finish and serve – Garnish with parsley and serve warm with lemon for a fresh citrus note.
Variations
Add a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy version.
Use lime instead of lemon for a tropical twist.
Mix in chopped herbs like dill or thyme for an aromatic touch.
Top with a drizzle of white wine before baking for extra depth of flavor.
Tips
Pat scallops dry before baking to get a nice golden crust.
Don’t overbake — scallops cook quickly and can become rubbery if left too long.
Use fresh garlic and butter for the richest flavor.
Serve immediately for the best texture and taste.
Conclusion (short)
Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are a simple yet luxurious dish that combines tender seafood with rich, buttery flavor. Perfectly balanced with lemon and herbs, this recipe turns any meal into an elegant dining experience.