Scallops are often considered a luxurious delicacy from the sea, known for their tender, sweet flavor and soft, succulent texture. When baked to golden perfection in a garlic butter sauce and topped with a crispy Parmesan breadcrumb topping, they become a dish that transforms any meal into an elegant occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, planning a romantic date night at home, or simply indulging in some seafood magic, Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are your answer.
This dish is incredibly simple to prepare, requiring minimal prep time and common kitchen ingredients. The result is mouthwateringly delicious: buttery, garlicky, slightly zesty, and perfectly crispy on top, with tender scallops that practically melt in your mouth. The rich flavors of garlic, butter, and lemon bring out the natural sweetness of the scallops, while the Parmesan and breadcrumbs offer the perfect contrast in texture.
From novice cooks to experienced chefs, anyone can master this foolproof recipe, and your guests will think you spent hours in the kitchen. Dive into this detailed guide for Garlic Butter Baked Scallops, and discover how to elevate your home cooking with a restaurant-worthy seafood dish.
Ingredients:
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1 lb large scallops, patted dry
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4 tablespoons butter, melted
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1/4 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
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1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated
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1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
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1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed for best flavor)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Lemon wedges, for serving
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). It’s important that the oven is fully heated before you begin baking to ensure even cooking and a crispy topping.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. This mixture is the heart of the dish—it infuses the scallops with rich, buttery flavor balanced by a hint of citrus and aromatic garlic.
Step 3: Assemble the Scallops
Place the scallops in a single layer in a lightly greased baking dish or cast-iron skillet. Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over the scallops, making sure each piece is generously coated. This not only flavors the scallops but also helps them stay moist and tender while baking.
Step 4: Add the Topping
In another bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley. Sprinkle this breadcrumb mixture evenly over the scallops. This topping will form a golden crust as it bakes, adding irresistible texture to every bite.
Step 5: Bake
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the scallops are opaque and the topping is golden brown. Be careful not to overcook them—scallops should remain tender and juicy. A slight spring when touched is a good indicator of doneness.
Variation
Want to experiment with flavors or dietary preferences? Here are some popular variations:
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a subtle heat.
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Herb Blend: Mix in chopped thyme, basil, or chives for a different herbaceous note.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour as a topping alternative.
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Keto-Friendly: Replace breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or Parmesan crisps.
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Wine Infusion: Add a splash of dry white wine to the garlic butter mix for extra depth.
Cooking Note:
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Scallops naturally release liquid when cooked. If you see some pooling in the baking dish, don’t worry—it’s normal. Using large, dry-packed scallops (and patting them dry beforehand) minimizes excess moisture.
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Use fresh scallops whenever possible for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, thaw them completely in the refrigerator and pat dry thoroughly.
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Broil for extra crispiness. If you like a more toasted topping, you can broil the scallops for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end, watching closely to prevent burning.
Serving Suggestions:
Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are wonderfully versatile and can be paired with various sides to create a balanced, impressive meal:
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Serve over pasta, like angel hair or linguine, tossed in a light lemon-butter sauce.
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Pair with creamy mashed potatoes or risotto for a comforting option.
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Add to a fresh garden salad or Caesar salad for a lighter meal.
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Accompany with steamed vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or broccoli.
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Complement with crusty bread or garlic toast to soak up every drop of that buttery sauce.
Tips:
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Dry scallops thoroughly before cooking to ensure a better sear and prevent sogginess.
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Use high-quality butter for rich flavor—European-style butters have a higher fat content and more intense taste.
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Grate your own Parmesan if possible; it melts better and has superior taste to pre-grated versions.
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Do not overcrowd the pan. Give each scallop space to bake evenly and get that golden crust.
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If you’re making this for guests, assemble ahead of time and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Based on 4 Servings)
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Calories: ~275 kcal
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Protein: ~22g
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Sodium: ~430mg
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Fat: ~18g
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Carbohydrates: ~7g
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Fiber: <1g
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Sugar: <1g
Note: These values are approximate and may vary based on exact brands and quantities used.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen scallops. Just make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight and pat them very dry before cooking.
2. What type of scallops should I buy?
Look for large sea scallops—they are ideal for baking. Avoid bay scallops as they are smaller and may overcook too quickly.
3. How do I know when scallops are done baking?
Scallops are done when they are opaque and slightly firm to the touch. Overcooked scallops will turn rubbery, so keep a close eye during the last few minutes.
4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the dish (minus the breadcrumb topping) up to 4 hours in advance and refrigerate. Add the topping right before baking for best results.
5. What’s a good wine pairing with scallops?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with the buttery, garlicky flavor of baked scallops.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are the perfect union of simplicity and sophistication. With just a handful of everyday ingredients and under 30 minutes of your time, you can serve up a gourmet seafood dish that dazzles with flavor and texture. Whether you’re trying scallops for the first time or looking to impress guests with a seafood showstopper, this recipe delivers.
From the tender, juicy scallops to the golden, cheesy breadcrumb topping, every bite is a celebration of balance and taste. This dish fits seamlessly into both a cozy dinner at home or a special celebration meal. Make it once, and you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again.
Print
Garlic Butter Baked Scallops Recipe
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4
Ingredients
Ingredients:
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1 lb large scallops, patted dry
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4 tablespoons butter, melted
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1/4 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
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1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated
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1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
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1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed for best flavor)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). It’s important that the oven is fully heated before you begin baking to ensure even cooking and a crispy topping.
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. This mixture is the heart of the dish—it infuses the scallops with rich, buttery flavor balanced by a hint of citrus and aromatic garlic.
Place the scallops in a single layer in a lightly greased baking dish or cast-iron skillet. Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over the scallops, making sure each piece is generously coated. This not only flavors the scallops but also helps them stay moist and tender while baking.
In another bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley. Sprinkle this breadcrumb mixture evenly over the scallops. This topping will form a golden crust as it bakes, adding irresistible texture to every bite.
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the scallops are opaque and the topping is golden brown. Be careful not to overcook them—scallops should remain tender and juicy. A slight spring when touched is a good indicator of doneness.
Notes
Cooking Note:
-
Scallops naturally release liquid when cooked. If you see some pooling in the baking dish, don’t worry—it’s normal. Using large, dry-packed scallops (and patting them dry beforehand) minimizes excess moisture.
-
Use fresh scallops whenever possible for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, thaw them completely in the refrigerator and pat dry thoroughly.
-
Broil for extra crispiness. If you like a more toasted topping, you can broil the scallops for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: ~275 kcal
- Sodium: ~430mg
- Fat: ~18g
- Carbohydrates: ~7g
- Protein: ~22g