Garlic Butter Baked Scallops: The Ultimate Seafood Recipe

Garlic butter baked scallops: just the name alone conjures up images of succulent, melt-in-your-mouth seafood perfection, doesn’t it? I’m thrilled to share this incredibly easy yet undeniably elegant recipe with you. Forget complicated preparations and hours spent in the kitchen; this dish delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort.

Scallops have been a delicacy enjoyed for centuries, gracing the tables of royalty and commoners alike. Their delicate sweetness and tender texture have made them a prized ingredient in cuisines around the world. While simple preparations often highlight their natural flavor, the addition of garlic butter elevates them to a whole new level of indulgence.

What makes garlic butter baked scallops so irresistible? It’s the harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The sweetness of the scallops is perfectly complemented by the rich, savory garlic butter, creating a symphony of taste that dances on your palate. The baking process ensures the scallops remain tender and juicy, while the garlic butter infuses them with a delightful aroma that will have everyone clamoring for more. Plus, let’s be honest, who can resist the allure of buttery, garlicky goodness? Whether you’re looking for a quick and impressive weeknight dinner or a show-stopping appetizer for your next gathering, these garlic butter baked scallops are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Get ready to experience seafood bliss!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound fresh sea scallops, patted dry
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, but recommended)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges, for serving
• Breadcrumbs (panko or regular), for topping (optional)

Preparing the Garlic Butter:

Okay, let’s get started! The first thing we need to do is whip up that amazing garlic butter. This is where the magic happens, trust me!

1. In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and lemon juice. Make sure your butter is nice and soft, otherwise, it will be hard to mix everything together.
2. If you’re using white wine, add it to the bowl now. The wine adds a lovely depth of flavor, but it’s totally optional if you don’t have any on hand or prefer not to use it.
3. Add the Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using). The Parmesan adds a nice salty, nutty flavor, and the red pepper flakes give it a little kick.
4. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Don’t be shy with the seasoning! Scallops are delicate, so they need a good amount of flavor to really shine. I usually start with about 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper, and then adjust from there.
5. Using a fork or a whisk, mix all the ingredients together until well combined. You want the garlic butter to be nice and smooth and creamy.
6. Taste the garlic butter and adjust the seasoning as needed. This is your chance to make it perfect! Add more salt, pepper, garlic, or lemon juice to your liking.

Preparing the Scallops:

Now that our garlic butter is ready, let’s get those scallops prepped. This is a crucial step, so pay attention!

1. Pat the scallops dry with paper towels. This is super important! You want to remove as much moisture as possible from the scallops so that they sear nicely in the oven instead of steaming. Trust me, you don’t want soggy scallops.
2. If your scallops are very large, you can cut them in half horizontally. This will help them cook more evenly. I usually only do this if my scallops are bigger than an inch in diameter.
3. Season the scallops with a little bit of salt and pepper. Again, don’t be shy with the seasoning!

Assembling and Baking:

Alright, we’re in the home stretch! Now it’s time to put everything together and bake those delicious scallops.

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Make sure your oven is fully preheated before you put the scallops in.
2. Lightly grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray. You can use a baking dish, a cast iron skillet, or even individual ramekins.
3. Arrange the scallops in the prepared baking dish in a single layer. Make sure the scallops aren’t overcrowded, or they won’t cook evenly.
4. Spoon the garlic butter evenly over the scallops. Make sure each scallop is generously coated with that delicious garlic butter.
5. If you’re using breadcrumbs, sprinkle them over the top of the scallops. The breadcrumbs will add a nice crispy texture to the finished dish. I like to use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the scallops are opaque and cooked through. The cooking time will depend on the size of your scallops and your oven. You’ll know they’re done when they’re firm to the touch and no longer translucent. Be careful not to overcook them, or they will become rubbery.
7. If you want the breadcrumbs to be extra golden brown, you can broil the scallops for the last minute or two of cooking time. Just keep a close eye on them so they don’t burn!

Serving:

Finally, it’s time to enjoy your hard work! These garlic butter baked scallops are best served immediately.

1. Remove the scallops from the oven and let them cool for a minute or two before serving.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges. The lemon wedges are essential for squeezing over the scallops for a burst of fresh flavor.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy! These scallops are delicious on their own, or you can serve them with a side of pasta, rice, or crusty bread for dipping in the garlic butter sauce.

Tips and Variations:

• For extra flavor, try adding a splash of sherry or vermouth to the garlic butter.
• You can also add other herbs to the garlic butter, such as thyme, oregano, or rosemary.
• If you don’t have Parmesan cheese, you can use another hard cheese, such as Pecorino Romano or Asiago.
• For a spicier dish, add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• You can also grill the scallops instead of baking them. Just thread them onto skewers and grill them over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes per side.
• If you’re using frozen scallops, be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
• To prevent the scallops from overcooking, use an oven thermometer to ensure that your oven is at the correct temperature.
• Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create your own unique version of this dish!

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve the scallops over linguine with a drizzle of the garlic butter sauce.
• Serve the scallops with a side of roasted asparagus or green beans.
• Serve the scallops with a crusty baguette for dipping in the garlic butter sauce.
• Serve the scallops as an appetizer with toothpicks for easy serving.
• Serve the scallops as part of a seafood platter with other grilled or baked seafood.

Storage Instructions:

If you have any leftover scallops, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them gently in the oven or microwave before serving. However, keep in mind that reheated scallops may not be as tender as freshly cooked scallops.

Nutritional Information (approximate, per serving):

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Cholesterol: 150mg
• Sodium: 500mg
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g
• Protein: 25g

Conclusion:

And there you have it! Our Garlic Butter Baked Scallops recipe is more than just a dish; it’s an experience. It’s the perfect blend of simplicity and elegance, offering a restaurant-quality meal right in the comfort of your own kitchen. I truly believe that once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your repertoire. The succulent scallops, bathed in that rich, garlicky, buttery goodness, are simply irresistible. The ease of preparation makes it ideal for a quick weeknight dinner, yet the sophisticated flavor profile makes it equally suitable for a special occasion.

Why is this a must-try? Because it delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Let’s be honest, we all crave those moments where we can impress ourselves and our loved ones without spending hours slaving away in the kitchen. This recipe achieves just that. The combination of fresh scallops, fragrant garlic, creamy butter, and a touch of lemon creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Plus, the baking method ensures that the scallops are perfectly cooked – tender and juicy, never rubbery.

But the beauty of this recipe lies not only in its simplicity and flavor but also in its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different variations to suit your personal preferences. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture. If you’re a fan of herbs, try incorporating some fresh parsley, thyme, or chives. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese before baking adds a delightful cheesy element.

Serving suggestions are endless! These Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are fantastic served over a bed of linguine or fettuccine, tossed with the remaining garlic butter sauce. They also pair beautifully with a side of roasted asparagus or a simple green salad. For a more substantial meal, serve them alongside a creamy risotto or some crusty bread for soaking up all that delicious sauce. You could even use them as a topping for crostini or as a filling for tacos. The possibilities are truly limitless!

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the magic of Garlic Butter Baked Scallops for yourself. I’m confident that you’ll be amazed by how easy it is to create such a flavorful and impressive dish.

Ready to get cooking?

Don’t hesitate to jump in and give it a go. Remember, cooking should be fun and enjoyable, so don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own. And most importantly, don’t forget to share your experience! I would absolutely love to hear how your Garlic Butter Baked Scallops turned out. Did you make any variations? What did you serve them with? What did your family and friends think?

Please, leave a comment below and let me know. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me to create even better recipes for you in the future. So, grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure. Happy cooking! I can’t wait to hear all about your scallop success!