GARLIC BUTTER BAKED SCALLOPS

The moment you open your oven to the intoxicating aroma of garlic, butter, and perfectly golden scallops, you’ll understand why this dish holds a special place in any seafood lover’s heart. Each bite is buttery soft, delicately briny, and kissed with a golden top layer that practically melts on the tongue. Whether you’re cooking for a romantic dinner or simply treating yourself, this recipe brings restaurant-quality elegance into your kitchen with stunning ease.

Behind the Recipe

It all started one breezy evening along the coast, with the scent of the sea in the air and a craving for something soul-warming yet simple. I remember walking past a seaside bistro where the aroma of sizzling garlic butter wafted through the open kitchen window. That moment inspired this dish—something that captures the charm of coastal dining without the fuss. Garlic butter baked scallops became my go-to comfort when I wanted to recreate that seaside memory, one golden bite at a time.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Scallops have graced tables from the shores of France to the fishing villages of Japan. These tender mollusks are treasured for their mild, sweet flavor and soft texture. While sautéing and pan-searing are popular methods, baking scallops in garlic butter has roots in both French gratins and New England-style seafood casseroles. It’s a marriage of European technique and American coastal flair that elevates everyday ingredients to something sublime.

Why You’ll Love GARLIC BUTTER BAKED SCALLOPS

Versatile: Perfect for appetizers or main courses, and pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or salad.
Budget-Friendly: Uses accessible ingredients and transforms them into a luxurious dish.
Quick and Easy: From prep to plate in under 30 minutes, no complex steps.
Customizable: Add a splash of citrus, herbs, or a pinch of spice to suit your taste.
Crowd-Pleasing: Impresses guests every single time—trust me, they’ll ask for seconds.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep the butter mixture and scallops earlier in the day for a stress-free evening.
Great for Leftovers: Toss leftovers into pasta or a warm grain bowl for an effortless lunch.

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Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

This recipe may be simple, but a few professional secrets ensure absolute perfection:

1. Pat Dry Thoroughly: Moisture is the enemy of browning. Dry your scallops with paper towels before baking.
2. Use High-Quality Butter: A good butter makes a big difference—opt for European-style for richness.
3. Preheat the Oven: Make sure your oven is fully heated so the scallops start cooking instantly.
4. Don’t Overcook: Scallops cook quickly. They should be just opaque and still tender inside.
5. Finish with Broil: For that golden crust, broil the last 2 minutes but watch carefully to prevent burning.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Before we dive in, make sure your kitchen is equipped with these essentials:

Baking Dish: Use a shallow ceramic or glass dish to evenly distribute heat.
Mixing Bowl: For combining your garlic butter and seasonings.
Zester or Grater: Perfect for adding a hint of lemon zest.
Measuring Spoons: Precision is key with garlic and seasonings.
Oven Mitts: For safely handling your hot baking dish.
Serving Spoon: To gently scoop those golden scallops without breaking them.

Ingredients in GARLIC BUTTER BAKED SCALLOPS

What makes this recipe irresistible is the balance of richness and brightness in every bite. Let’s break down the star players:

1. Sea Scallops: 1 ½ pounds, large and fresh (or frozen and thawed) – the hero of the dish with their sweet, tender flavor.
2. Unsalted Butter: 6 tablespoons, melted – forms the base of the luscious sauce.
3. Garlic: 4 cloves, finely minced – brings bold, aromatic flavor that infuses the butter.
4. Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed – adds brightness and balances the richness.
5. Lemon Zest: 1 teaspoon – adds a fragrant, citrusy punch.
6. Breadcrumbs: ⅓ cup, preferably panko – for that light, crispy topping.
7. Parsley: 2 tablespoons, finely chopped – a fresh green finish for contrast.
8. Salt: ½ teaspoon – enhances all the savory notes.
9. Black Pepper: ¼ teaspoon, freshly ground – adds subtle heat.
10. Paprika: ¼ teaspoon – for a hint of warmth and color.

Ingredient Substitutions

In case you’re out of something or need a tweak, here’s how to make it work:

Sea Scallops: Bay scallops (smaller) can be used, but reduce cooking time.
Unsalted Butter: Use olive oil for a lighter version.
Breadcrumbs: Crushed crackers or gluten-free panko are great alternatives.
Parsley: Try chives or dill for a different herbal note.
Paprika: Smoked paprika for a deeper, more robust flavor.

Ingredient Spotlight

Scallops: These bivalves are known for their delicate sweetness and buttery texture. When baked, they become tender and juicy, absorbing all the garlic butter goodness.
Garlic: The ultimate flavor enhancer. When sautéed or baked in butter, garlic mellows and becomes sweet, infusing the entire dish with irresistible aroma.

Instructions for Making GARLIC BUTTER BAKED SCALLOPS

This dish is as delightful to prepare as it is to eat. Here are the steps you’ll follow to bring it all together:

1. Preheat Your Equipment:
   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Make sure your oven rack is in the middle position for even cooking.
2. Combine Ingredients:
   In a bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, zest, salt, pepper, and paprika until well combined.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
   Lightly grease a shallow baking dish. Pat scallops dry with paper towels and arrange them in a single layer.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over the scallops. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top, followed by chopped parsley.
5. Cook to Perfection:
   Bake for 15 minutes or until scallops are opaque and slightly firm. For a golden finish, broil for 2 extra minutes.
6. Finishing Touches:
   Let the scallops rest for 2 minutes out of the oven. Optionally, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Serve hot with crusty bread or atop angel hair pasta, garnished with more fresh herbs.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

The beauty of this dish lies in its contrasts. The scallops are tender and succulent inside, while the breadcrumb topping adds a satisfying crunch. The garlic butter seeps into every crevice, giving each bite layers of richness, while the lemon cuts through with brightness. It’s this interplay of soft, crunchy, buttery, and zesty that makes each forkful sing.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

A few final tweaks can elevate your dish even further:

• Use a cast iron baking dish for better heat retention and a crispier topping.
• Don’t skip drying the scallops, or you’ll end up steaming instead of baking.
• Sprinkle a tiny bit of Parmesan over the breadcrumbs for a savory twist.

What to Avoid

It’s easy to perfect this recipe if you avoid these common pitfalls:

• Don’t overcrowd the pan—scallops need space to cook evenly.
• Avoid using pre-minced garlic, which lacks fresh flavor.
• Don’t skip the broiling step—it’s key for that golden finish.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 320

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can prep the garlic butter mixture and scallops a few hours ahead, keeping them chilled separately. After baking, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes. Note: Freezing cooked scallops is not recommended as they may turn rubbery.

How to Serve GARLIC BUTTER BAKED SCALLOPS

Serve these beauties as a starter with warm baguette slices or make them the centerpiece over a bed of herbed rice or pasta. Pair with a crisp green salad or steamed asparagus for a balanced plate. A lemon wedge on the side never hurts either.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Get playful with the leftovers:

• Toss into a creamy pasta with peas and spinach.
• Serve cold over a fresh arugula and citrus salad.
• Make scallop sliders using mini brioche buns and aioli.

Additional Tips

• Use room-temperature scallops to ensure even baking.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for subtle heat.
• Always zest your lemon before juicing—it’s much easier.

Make It a Showstopper

Presentation matters! Serve in individual ramekins for elegance or top with microgreens for a pop of color. Use a large white plate to let the golden scallops shine. Finish with a drizzle of browned butter just before serving for next-level decadence.

Variations to Try

• Herb Infusion: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the butter for a woodsy aroma.
• Citrus Twist: Swap lemon with orange zest and juice for a sweeter profile.
• Spicy Kick: Stir in a touch of harissa or chili flakes to the garlic butter.
• Cheesy Topping: Mix grated Parmesan into the breadcrumbs for extra umami.
• Mediterranean Vibe: Add chopped olives and sun-dried tomatoes before baking.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I use frozen scallops?

A1: Yes, just make sure to fully thaw and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

Q2: Can I make this dairy-free?

A2: Absolutely. Substitute butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative.

Q3: Can I cook this in an air fryer?

A3: You can! Use an oven-safe dish in the air fryer and adjust time to about 10–12 minutes at 375°F.

Q4: Do I need to remove the side muscle from scallops?

A4: Yes, if present, remove the small tough flap on the side for the best texture.

Q5: What should scallops look like when they’re done?

A5: They should be opaque and slightly springy to the touch, not rubbery.

Q6: Can I add cheese to the topping?

A6: A sprinkle of Parmesan adds a savory boost—just don’t overpower the scallops.

Q7: Should I flip the scallops halfway through baking?

A7: No need! They cook evenly when laid flat and basted with butter.

Q8: What sides pair well with this?

A8: Rice pilaf, garlic noodles, roasted vegetables, or a light green salad are all excellent.

Q9: Can I prepare this in advance?

A9: You can mix the garlic butter and prep the scallops a few hours ahead. Bake just before serving.

Q10: How do I reheat leftovers?

A10: Reheat gently in a low oven (300°F) to keep them tender. Avoid microwaving.

Conclusion

Trust me, you’re going to love this one. Garlic butter baked scallops are the kind of dish that turns an ordinary evening into something extraordinary. It’s simple yet luxurious, comforting yet elegant. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this recipe is sure to become a treasured favorite in your rotation. Let me tell you, it’s worth every bite.

Watch How To Make Garlic butter baked scallops