Here’s a detailed recipe for Garlic Butter Baked Scallops—a simple, elegant, and flavorful seafood dish that’s perfect for a quick dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients (Serves 2–4)
- 1 lb (450 g) sea scallops, cleaned and patted dry
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 3–4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese or breadcrumbs for topping
Instructions
1. Preheat & Prep
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
2. Make Garlic Butter
- In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Stir well to make a flavorful garlic butter mixture.
3. Arrange Scallops
- Place scallops in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
- Spoon the garlic butter evenly over each scallop.
- Optional: Sprinkle with Parmesan or breadcrumbs for a golden topping.
4. Bake
- Bake uncovered for 12–15 minutes, depending on scallop size, until they are opaque and just cooked through.
- Be careful not to overcook—they should be tender and slightly springy.
5. Serve
- Garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of extra lemon if desired.
- Serve immediately with rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up the garlic butter.
Tips for Perfect Baked Scallops
- Dry your scallops well—moist scallops will steam instead of bake, preventing a nice sear or caramelization.
- Uniform size ensures even cooking.
- For added richness, broil for the last 1–2 minutes for a lightly golden top.
- Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio for a classic touch.
If you want, I can also give a “restaurant-style” version that includes a garlic herb crust and a white wine butter sauce for extra flavor.
Do you want me to share that version?
