Name: Indulgent Garlic Butter Baked Scallops
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 28 min
Ingredients: 1 lb sea scallops (cleaned and patted dry); 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Panko preferred); 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are the epitome of an indulgent seafood dish that’s surprisingly easy to prepare. Picture this: luscious sea scallops, perfectly cooked and topped with a rich garlic butter mixture, all baked to golden perfection. This recipe is not just about flavor; it’s also quick, taking under 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a cozy dinner at home or an impressive dish for guests. The combination of fresh garlic, melty butter, zesty lemon, and the savory notes of Parmesan creates a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. It’s one of those dishes that feels fancy yet remains accessible, proving that you can enjoy a gourmet experience in your own kitchen without extensive culinary skills.

Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking to experiment with something delicious, Garlic Butter Baked Scallops will surely be a showstopper. They are buttery, tender, and bursting with flavor, complemented by a lovely crunch from the breadcrumb topping. This dish not only highlights the delightful nature of scallops but also provides numerous health benefits. Packed with protein and essential nutrients, scallops are a fantastic addition to your diet. In addition, this dish pairs seamlessly with a variety of sides, allowing for versatility in meal planning. The rich, buttery goodness of the scallops makes them a perfect match for a refreshing salad or a creamy risotto.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavorful: The rich combination of garlic and butter enhances the sweet, delicate flavor of the scallops.
Impressive Presentation: Looks gourmet and is sure to wow your guests.
Healthy: A lean protein option loaded with essential nutrients.
Customizable: Adapt the recipe with different spices or ingredients based on your palate.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you begin making Garlic Butter Baked Scallops, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen. Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients and tools. For this recipe, you’ll need a reliable oven, a mixing bowl, measuring cups, and a baking dish. Make sure your scallops are cleaned and patted dry for optimal texture during baking. Prepping your workspace helps in executing the recipe efficiently; everything should be within reach.

It is crucial to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) beforehand, as this temperature is ideal for perfectly cooking scallops while allowing the topping to crisp. A non-stick baking dish or one that has been lightly greased will prevent the scallops from sticking and make for easy cleanup after cooking. Having a zester or microplane handy for the lemon juice, and a pair of kitchen tongs will also enhance your cooking experience. If you enjoy a crispy topping, keep a watchful eye on the scallops during baking and be ready to broil them for a minute or two at the end.

Ingredients

1 lb sea scallops (cleaned and patted dry)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Panko preferred)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First, set your oven to preheat at 400°F (200°C). This ensures a consistently hot environment for the scallops to bake evenly and thoroughly.

Step 2: Prepare the Scallops

Pat the scallops completely dry using paper towels. This step is crucial as it helps achieve that perfect golden crust while baking. Place them evenly in a lightly greased baking dish, making sure they have enough space and are not overcrowded.

Step 3: Mix the Topping

In a medium mixing bowl, combine melted unsalted butter with minced garlic, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until it forms a well-blended mixture. This topping not only adds flavor but also transforms your scallops into a gourmet treat.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Spoon the topping mixture evenly over the scallops, ensuring each one is well-coated. This will allow every bite to be packed with flavor and create that delightful crunch on top once baked.

Step 5: Bake the Scallops

Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for approximately 15 to 18 minutes. The scallops are done when they turn opaque and the breadcrumb mixture has a lovely golden hue. If you desire an even crispier topping, you can broil the dish for an additional 1 to 2 minutes at the end of the baking time. Just keep a close eye to avoid burning!

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove the dish from the oven. Garnish your delicious scallops with fresh parsley for an extra touch. Serve immediately while they are hot and enjoy!

Variations

Protein: Substitute scallops with shrimp or crab for a delightful twist.
Vegetables: Add spinach or diced tomatoes into the topping mixture for extra color and nutrition.
Spices: Experiment with different spices like cayenne pepper for heat or oregano for an Italian flair.

Cooking Notes

Ensure that the scallops are dry before baking; this helps them sear beautifully.
Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your preference; it’s easy to make it more or less salty.
Using fresh ingredients will make a noticeable difference in flavor, especially the garlic and parsley.
A cast-iron skillet can also be used if you prefer a different baking method.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a fresh green salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing meal.
Pair with creamy risotto or garlic mashed potatoes for a comforting side.

Tips

Check for doneness regularly; scallops can overcook easily, turning rubbery.
Using high-quality sea scallops will elevate the dish significantly.
Let leftover scallops cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
To reheat leftovers, place them back in the oven to retain their texture.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Total Time: 28 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 350 per serving
Protein: 30g
Sodium: 450mg

FAQs

What type of scallops should I use?

Fresh sea scallops are highly recommended for this recipe due to their superior flavor and texture. If fresh is not available, frozen scallops can be used; just ensure they are thawed and completely dry before cooking.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Although it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the topping in advance and store it separately from the scallops. Assemble right before baking for optimal results.

What can I serve with baked scallops?

This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, a light salad, or a starch like rice or potatoes. You can customize your sides based on dietary preferences.

How do I know when scallops are done cooking?

Scallops are cooked perfectly when they are opaque in color and have a slightly firm texture. They should not be rubbery. A good rule of thumb is to check them around the 15-minute mark.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are a delicious way to showcase one of seafood’s finest ingredients. With its quick preparation and mouthwatering flavor, this dish is bound to become a regular in your meal rotation. Not only does it impress with its taste, but the simplicity of the recipe allows anyone to feel like a gourmet chef in their own kitchen. We would love to hear how your garlic butter scallops turned out—feel free to share your experience or any variations you tried in the comments below! So what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and whip up this exquisite dish for your next dinner. Enjoy!