Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are a simple yet elegant dish that combines the delicate sweetness of scallops with a rich and flavorful garlic butter topping. This dish is perfect for a special dinner or a fancy appetizer, but it’s also easy enough for a weeknight meal. The scallops bake to tender perfection, absorbing the buttery, garlicky goodness, while the crispy breadcrumb and Parmesan topping adds a delightful crunch. Whether you’re cooking for a loved one or hosting a small gathering, these garlic butter baked scallops are sure to impress.

With just a few ingredients, this recipe brings out the natural flavors of the scallops while elevating them with a zesty, savory topping. You can enjoy these scallops as an appetizer alongside a glass of white wine or serve them as part of a main course, perhaps with a side of pasta, rice, or a fresh salad. This dish is as versatile as it is delicious!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are an ideal choice for seafood lovers who enjoy rich, buttery dishes with a touch of crunch. The combination of fresh scallops and a seasoned garlic butter mixture creates a harmonious balance of flavors, with the scallops remaining tender and juicy while the topping adds a crispy texture. This dish is not only full of flavor but also quick and easy to prepare. With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a short cooking time of 15-20 minutes, you can have this restaurant-quality dish ready in no time. Perfect for impressing guests or indulging in a simple but refined dinner!

Ingredients

• Fresh scallops
• Garlic
• Unsalted butter
• Breadcrumbs
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper

Variations

• Add a Zesty Twist: You can add a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of lemon zest to brighten the flavor of the dish.
• Make it Spicy: For a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture.
• Use Different Cheese: If you don’t have Parmesan, you can try using Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with other fresh herbs such as thyme, oregano, or basil to change the taste of the topping.

How to Make the Recipe

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking.
2. Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, melted butter, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Arrange the Scallops: Place the fresh scallops in a single layer in a baking dish.
4. Top with Garlic Butter: Pour the garlic butter mixture over the scallops, ensuring each one is evenly coated.
5. Bake the Scallops: Bake the scallops in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until they are cooked through and opaque. The topping should be golden and slightly crispy.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the garlic butter baked scallops immediately while hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overcook the Scallops: Scallops cook quickly and can become rubbery if overcooked. Keep an eye on them while baking; they should be opaque and firm to the touch when done.
• Use Fresh Scallops: For the best flavor, use fresh, high-quality scallops. Frozen scallops can be used, but they may release more moisture and affect the texture of the dish.
• Use Unsalted Butter: This allows you to control the amount of salt in the dish. If using salted butter, reduce the amount of added salt.
• Even Coating: Make sure the garlic butter mixture covers the scallops evenly to enhance flavor and texture in every bite.
• Serve Immediately: Scallops are best served right after baking to ensure they maintain their tender texture.

How to Serve

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops can be served as a stand-alone appetizer or paired with side dishes. For a full meal, try pairing them with a light pasta, rice pilaf, or a green vegetable such as asparagus or sautéed spinach. A fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the scallops beautifully. You can also serve them with a crusty piece of bread to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce. For a fancy touch, add a glass of chilled white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers: If you have leftover scallops, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. While the texture of the scallops may change slightly upon reheating, they will still retain their delicious flavor.

Freezing: While it is not ideal to freeze cooked scallops, you can freeze the garlic butter sauce separately. When ready to eat, you can thaw and reheat the sauce, then bake fresh scallops for a quick meal.

Reheating: To reheat leftovers, place the scallops in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it may overcook the scallops and affect their texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe? Yes, you can use frozen scallops. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
2. How do I know when scallops are done baking? Scallops are done when they are opaque and firm to the touch. They should not be translucent or rubbery.
3. Can I add vegetables to this dish? Yes, you can add vegetables such as asparagus, spinach, or cherry tomatoes to the baking dish along with the scallops for a complete meal.
4. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter? Yes, but if using salted butter, reduce the amount of added salt in the recipe to prevent it from becoming too salty.
5. What is the best way to store leftover scallops? Leftover scallops should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to prevent overcooking.
6. Can I make the garlic butter mixture ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the garlic butter mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
7. Can I cook the scallops on the stovetop instead of baking? Yes, you can cook the scallops on the stovetop in a skillet. Simply sear them for about 2-3 minutes per side, then add the garlic butter mixture and cook for an additional minute.
8. What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese? You can use Pecorino Romano or any other hard, grated cheese in place of Parmesan.
9. How do I prevent the scallops from being overcooked? Be sure to check the scallops after 15 minutes of baking. Once they are opaque and firm to the touch, they are done.
10. What wine pairs well with garlic butter scallops? A dry white wine, such as Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, or Pinot Grigio, pairs wonderfully with the rich and buttery flavor of the scallops.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are a fantastic way to elevate your seafood meals. This easy-to-make dish combines tender scallops with a rich, flavorful garlic butter topping, creating a memorable culinary experience. Whether served as an appetizer or as the main course, these scallops are sure to impress your guests with their incredible taste and elegant presentation. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a dish that feels gourmet yet is perfectly achievable at home. Enjoy these scallops with a side of your favorite vegetables or pasta for a delicious, restaurant-quality meal.

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