Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

Scallops are one of the most delightful seafood dishes that are both elegant and easy to prepare. This garlic butter baked scallops recipe is the epitome of flavor and sophistication, offering a luxurious meal with minimal effort. The tender scallops, gently baked in a rich and savory garlic butter sauce, create a mouthwatering combination that will impress your guests or elevate a quiet dinner at home. With the addition of a few simple ingredients, such as fresh garlic, butter, and a touch of lemon, the scallops become a flavorful masterpiece.

Baking the scallops rather than frying them ensures a light, perfectly cooked dish, while keeping them juicy and tender. The garlic butter mixture complements the delicate sweetness of the scallops without overpowering their natural flavor. This recipe is versatile enough to be served as a main dish, appetizer, or side for a variety of occasions. Whether it’s a romantic dinner, a holiday celebration, or a family gathering, garlic butter baked scallops will never disappoint. Paired with a crisp white wine or a side of fresh vegetables, it becomes an unforgettable culinary experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Simple Ingredients

This recipe requires only a handful of ingredients, making it perfect for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs alike. The ingredients are accessible, so you don’t need to hunt down special items.

2. Quick and Easy

This dish comes together in a short amount of time. You can have a delicious, restaurant-quality meal on your table in less than 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or last-minute entertaining.

3. Perfectly Tender Scallops

Baking the scallops in garlic butter ensures they stay moist and tender, without becoming overcooked or chewy. The gentle heat allows the natural sweetness of the scallops to shine through.

4. Versatile Serving Options

Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, a main course, or paired with pasta or a salad, these garlic butter baked scallops fit perfectly into any meal.

5. Crowd-Pleasing Flavor

Garlic butter is a universal crowd-pleaser. It adds a rich, savory depth to the scallops while elevating the entire dish. With this recipe, you’ll enjoy both the freshness of seafood and the comforting taste of garlic butter.

this RECIPE

Ingredients

• Scallops
• Unsalted butter
• Fresh garlic
• Lemon juice
• Parsley
• Salt
• Pepper
• Paprika
• Parmesan cheese (optional)

Variations

• Add Bacon: For a smoky flavor, consider adding crispy bacon crumbles to the garlic butter mixture.
• Spicy Twist: Incorporate some red pepper flakes into the butter for a little heat and kick.
• Herb Options: Experiment with other herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano to add different layers of flavor.
• Crusty Topping: Sprinkle breadcrumbs and a bit of grated cheese over the top of the scallops before baking for a crispy finish.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Scallops

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the scallops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which will help them bake evenly. Remove any side muscle if necessary.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Remove from heat, then stir in lemon juice, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika.

Step 3: Arrange the Scallops

Place the scallops in a single layer in a baking dish or on a lined baking sheet. Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over the scallops, ensuring each one is coated.

Step 4: Bake the Scallops

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the scallops are opaque and cooked through. Be careful not to overcook them to keep them tender.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once the scallops are done, remove from the oven and garnish with extra parsley and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Serve immediately.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overcook: Scallops cook very quickly. Watch them closely, as overcooking will result in a rubbery texture.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic imparts the best flavor, but you can use garlic powder if necessary.
• Baking Time: The size of the scallops affects cooking time. Larger scallops may need a bit longer in the oven.
• Serve Immediately: Scallops are best enjoyed fresh and hot out of the oven for the best texture.

How to Serve

Garlic butter baked scallops can be served in a variety of ways:

• As an appetizer: Serve them on a platter with lemon wedges and a side of dipping sauce.
• As a main dish: Pair with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or pasta for a complete meal.
• With bread: Serve with a crusty loaf of bread to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover scallops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To preserve the delicate texture, it’s best to eat them the same day.

Freezing

Freezing scallops is not recommended after they have been baked, as the texture may suffer upon reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, place the scallops in a baking dish and cover loosely with foil. Heat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?

Yes, but be sure to thaw them properly in the fridge overnight or under cold running water before cooking.

2. How can I tell when the scallops are done?

Scallops are done when they become opaque and firm to the touch. They should also release slightly from the baking dish.

3. Can I substitute the butter with olive oil?

Yes, olive oil can be used, but it won’t provide the same rich flavor as butter. You may want to add a little more garlic or herbs to compensate.

4. What type of scallops should I use?

Fresh sea scallops are recommended for the best flavor and texture, though you can also use frozen ones as long as they are properly thawed.

5. Can I make this recipe without garlic?

If you’re not a fan of garlic, you can omit it, but you may want to replace it with other herbs or seasonings for flavor.

6. Can I make this recipe with other seafood?

Yes! You can use shrimp, lobster tails, or fish fillets in place of scallops, but cooking times may vary depending on the size of the seafood.

7. What can I substitute for parsley?

If you don’t have parsley, fresh basil, thyme, or cilantro can be great alternatives.

8. How do I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the garlic butter to give it a bit of heat.

9. Is it necessary to use lemon?

Lemon adds a refreshing acidity that balances the richness of the butter. It’s highly recommended, but you can skip it if you prefer.

10. Can I double the recipe for a larger group?

Yes, you can easily double or triple the recipe. Just be sure to use a larger baking dish and adjust the cooking time if necessary.

Conclusion

Garlic butter baked scallops are a fantastic dish that delivers on both flavor and simplicity. With minimal ingredients and a quick cooking time, this recipe allows the delicate, sweet flavor of scallops to shine through while being elevated with the rich garlic butter sauce. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or treat yourself to a special dinner, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Enjoy these tender, succulent scallops as part of a delicious meal, and savor every bite!

Print