Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are an incredibly easy yet elegant seafood dish that’s perfect for a special dinner or even a weeknight meal. The tender, juicy scallops are baked in a rich garlic butter sauce, creating a savory and slightly sweet flavor that pairs wonderfully with fresh lemon juice. This dish is perfect for seafood lovers looking for a simple, flavorful recipe to impress family or guests.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cooking Notes
- Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 1 lb sea scallops (patted dry)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Scallops
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a baking dish or oven-safe skillet.
- Pat the scallops dry with paper towels to ensure they sear well and avoid excess liquid during baking.
- Arrange the scallops in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, and white wine (if using).
- Pour the garlic butter sauce evenly over the scallops.
- Sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and paprika for added flavor.
Step 3: Bake the Scallops
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the scallops.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the scallops are opaque and cooked through. Be careful not to overcook, as scallops can become rubbery if baked too long.
Step 4: Serve
- Remove the scallops from the oven and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for garnish.
- Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for a bright, fresh flavor. Garlic butter scallops pair beautifully with crusty bread, pasta, or a side salad.
Cooking Notes
- Scallops Selection: Choose sea scallops rather than bay scallops for this dish, as they are larger and better suited for baking.
- Dry Scallops: Patting the scallops dry ensures they sear well and prevents excess moisture from diluting the sauce.
- Cooking Time: Keep a close eye on the scallops while baking, as they cook quickly. Overcooked scallops can become tough and lose their delicate texture.
Variations
Spicy Garlic Butter Scallops
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce for a bit of heat.
Herbed Scallops
- Add 1 teaspoon of dried Italian herbs (such as oregano, thyme, and basil) to the butter mixture for an aromatic touch.
Lemon Garlic Parmesan Scallops
- Increase the amount of lemon juice to 2 tablespoons and add lemon zest for a more intense citrus flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Use Frozen Scallops?
Yes, you can use frozen scallops. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before baking to remove excess moisture.
How Do I Know When Scallops Are Cooked?
Scallops are cooked when they turn opaque and are firm to the touch. The internal temperature should reach 120°F (49°C) for perfectly cooked scallops.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
It’s best to bake scallops just before serving, as they cook very quickly. However, you can prepare the garlic butter mixture ahead of time to save on prep.
What Should I Serve with Garlic Butter Baked Scallops?
These scallops pair well with pasta, steamed vegetables, a simple green salad, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce.
Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are a simple yet sophisticated seafood dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The tender scallops bathed in a rich garlic butter sauce make for an incredibly flavorful and satisfying meal. Whether you’re preparing a romantic dinner or a quick weeknight meal, these scallops are sure to impress.
Try experimenting with the variations to suit your taste, and enjoy this delicious dish with your favorite sides. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family, and savor every bite of these delectable garlic butter scallops!
