Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops is a delicious and easy-to-make seafood dish that’s perfect for a special dinner or as an elegant appetizer. With succulent scallops topped with a rich, buttery garlic sauce and a crispy breadcrumb-parmesan topping, this dish is packed with flavor. It’s an ideal choice for seafood lovers who enjoy dishes that are both simple and indulgent.

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh scallops
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the scallops: Rinse the scallops under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
3. Make the garlic butter: In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic and melted butter, stirring until well mixed.
4. Season the scallops: Place the scallops in a baking dish, season them with salt and pepper, and then pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over them.
5. Prepare the breadcrumb topping: In a separate bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley. Stir to mix well.
6. Top the scallops: Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the scallops, ensuring each scallop is covered with a layer of the crispy topping.
7. Bake the scallops: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the scallops are cooked through and the topping is golden brown and crispy.
8. Serve and enjoy: Remove from the oven and serve the scallops hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cooking time: 15-20 minutes
• Total time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

• Add a little heat: For a spicy kick, sprinkle red pepper flakes over the scallops before baking or stir a bit of cayenne pepper into the garlic butter.
• Lemon zest: Add some lemon zest to the breadcrumb mixture or squeeze fresh lemon juice over the scallops before serving for a fresh, citrusy finish.
• Herb variations: Swap out parsley for other fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or tarragon to alter the flavor profile.
• Cheese options: For a different twist, you can substitute Parmesan with Gruyère, Asiago, or a blend of Italian cheeses for a richer flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover scallops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to preserve the texture of the scallops and the crispy topping. Alternatively, you can reheat in a skillet over low heat with a little butter or oil.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use frozen scallops?
   Yes, you can use frozen scallops, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry to remove any excess moisture before baking.
2. How do I know when the scallops are cooked?
   Scallops are cooked when they become opaque and firm to the touch. They should not be overcooked as they can become tough. The internal temperature should reach 120°F (49°C).
3. Can I make the garlic butter sauce ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the garlic butter mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just reheat it slightly before using.
4. Can I use a different type of cheese?
   Yes, you can substitute Parmesan with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a different flavor.
5. What can I serve with garlic butter baked scallops?
   Garlic butter baked scallops pair beautifully with pasta, a light salad, steamed vegetables, or a side of garlic bread.
6. Can I bake the scallops in a different dish?
   Yes, you can use any oven-safe baking dish, such as a gratin dish or individual ramekins, as long as the scallops are spread out in a single layer.
7. Can I use panko breadcrumbs for the topping?
   Yes, panko breadcrumbs will give an extra crispy texture to the topping, making the dish even more delightful.
8. Can I use pre-minced garlic instead of fresh garlic?
   Yes, you can use pre-minced garlic or garlic powder, but fresh garlic will provide the best flavor.
9. Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
   You can prepare the scallops and garlic butter mixture ahead of time, but it’s best to bake them fresh to retain the best texture.
10. Can I make this dish without the breadcrumbs?
    Yes, you can make a simple garlic butter scallop dish without the breadcrumbs, just using the garlic butter and Parmesan to flavor the scallops.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are a luxurious and easy-to-make seafood dish that makes any meal feel like a special occasion. The combination of tender scallops, rich garlic butter, and a crispy Parmesan topping is a winning flavor profile that will impress guests or satisfy your own cravings for a delicious seafood dish. Whether served as a main course or an appetizer, this recipe brings the flavors of the sea right to your table in just 30 minutes. Enjoy!

Print