Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are a simple yet indulgent dish that elevates the natural sweetness of fresh scallops with a buttery, garlicky topping. This dish is perfect for a special occasion, a family dinner, or as a delicious appetizer. The combination of fresh scallops, garlic, butter, and a crispy breadcrumb topping creates a flavor profile that is both rich and satisfying. With minimal ingredients and an easy preparation process, this recipe is sure to impress even the most discerning seafood lover. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a weeknight meal, these garlic butter baked scallops will quickly become a favorite. The scallops bake to tender perfection, and the garlic butter sauce ensures that every bite is filled with flavor. Plus, the crispy, golden topping adds the perfect finishing touch. Let’s dive into why you’ll absolutely love this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Delicious and Flavorful

The combination of fresh garlic, melted butter, and Parmesan cheese creates a rich and savory flavor that perfectly complements the delicate sweetness of the scallops.

2. Quick and Easy to Make

With just a few simple steps, you can have a stunning seafood dish on the table in under 30 minutes. It’s ideal for busy evenings when you want something delicious without a lot of fuss.

3. Impressive and Elegant

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This dish looks elegant and impressive, making it perfect for special occasions or dinner parties. Its sophistication will have your guests thinking you’ve spent hours in the kitchen.

4. Customizable

The recipe can be easily adjusted to your taste preferences. You can add extra herbs, change the type of cheese, or experiment with different breadcrumbs for a unique twist.

5. Perfect for Seafood Lovers

For anyone who loves seafood, this is a must-try. The scallops are tender, juicy, and beautifully enhanced by the garlic butter sauce, making each bite irresistible.

Ingredients

• Fresh sea scallops
• Garlic, minced
• Butter, melted
• Breadcrumbs
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Variations

• Herb Infused: Add thyme, rosemary, or basil for a more herbal flavor.
• Spicy: Incorporate some red pepper flakes into the garlic butter mixture for a bit of heat.
• Lemon Zest: Add lemon zest to the topping for a refreshing citrus kick.
• Cheese Variety: Swap out Parmesan cheese for Gruyère, mozzarella, or cheddar for different flavor profiles.
• Crushed Nuts: For added crunch, sprinkle crushed almonds or pecans over the breadcrumb topping.

How to Make Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it with butter or cooking spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Scallops

Pat the fresh scallops dry with a paper towel. This will help them sear nicely when baking and prevent them from being too watery.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Mixture

In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic and melted butter. Stir to ensure the garlic is evenly distributed in the butter.

Step 4: Assemble the Topping

In another bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper.

Step 5: Arrange the Scallops

Place the scallops in the prepared baking dish, arranging them in a single layer. Spoon the garlic butter mixture evenly over the scallops.

Step 6: Add the Topping

Sprinkle the breadcrumb and cheese mixture over the top of each scallop.

Step 7: Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the scallops are cooked through and the topping is golden brown.

Step 8: Serve

Remove from the oven, garnish with additional parsley if desired, and serve immediately.

Tips for Making Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

• Pat Scallops Dry: Drying the scallops ensures that they bake evenly and don’t release too much liquid.
• Watch the Cooking Time: Scallops cook quickly. Overcooking them will result in a rubbery texture, so be sure to monitor the time closely.
• Use Fresh Scallops: For the best flavor, always use fresh, high-quality scallops.
• Customize the Topping: Feel free to get creative with the topping—try adding some crushed garlic croutons or finely chopped spinach for extra flavor.

How to Serve

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are a versatile dish that pairs well with many sides. Serve them with a light salad, steamed vegetables, or a simple pasta. You could also enjoy them as an appetizer alongside a glass of white wine, like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. For an elegant meal, pair with roasted asparagus or a lemon risotto.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To store leftovers, place the baked scallops in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to 2 days.

Freezing

While it’s best to enjoy this dish fresh, you can freeze the cooked scallops by placing them in a freezer-safe container. They will keep for up to 2 months in the freezer. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm them in the oven.

Reheating

Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the scallops tough.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?

Yes, frozen scallops will work, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before baking.

2. Can I use other seafood in this recipe?

Absolutely! Shrimp or lobster tail would also work well in this garlic butter sauce.

3. How do I know when scallops are done cooking?

Scallops should be opaque and firm to the touch when done. Overcooking can cause them to become rubbery.

4. Can I make the garlic butter ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the garlic butter mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.

5. How do I avoid rubbery scallops?

The key is to not overcook them. Scallops cook very quickly, so check them regularly as they bake.

6. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as Gruyère, mozzarella, or goat cheese.

7. Can I make this recipe without breadcrumbs?

Yes, you can skip the breadcrumbs for a low-carb or gluten-free option, or substitute with almond flour.

8. What’s the best way to serve scallops as an appetizer?

Serve 2-3 scallops per person with a drizzle of garlic butter sauce on the side for dipping.

9. Can I prepare this dish in advance and bake it later?

You can assemble the dish ahead of time, then refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s chilled.

10. What should I serve with baked scallops?

Pair baked scallops with a side of vegetables, a fresh salad, or pasta for a well-rounded meal.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are a fantastic way to enjoy the delicate flavor of scallops while indulging in a rich and savory topping. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious appetizer or a main dish that’s sure to impress, this recipe delivers on taste and ease. With simple ingredients, a few easy steps, and plenty of room for customization, it’s a seafood dish anyone can master.

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