If you’re looking for an easy, elegant, and absolutely delicious seafood dish, these Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are a must-try! With succulent, tender scallops baked in a rich garlic butter sauce, this dish is bursting with flavor and perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion. Plus, it takes less than 30 minutes to make!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes.
✔ Restaurant-Quality – Tastes just like something from a fancy seafood restaurant.
✔ Perfectly Cooked Scallops – Tender, juicy, and full of flavor.
✔ Minimal Ingredients – Simple, fresh ingredients make this dish shine.
Ingredients
For the Scallops:
- 1 lb sea scallops (fresh or frozen, thawed)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
For Serving:
- Lemon wedges
- Crusty bread or pasta (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Scallops
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat the scallops dry using paper towels. This helps them brown properly.
- Place the scallops in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
- Season with salt and black pepper.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
- In a small bowl, melt the butter and mix in garlic, red pepper flakes, paprika, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice.
- Pour the butter mixture evenly over the scallops.
Step 3: Bake the Scallops
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, until the scallops are opaque and slightly golden on top.
- Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end for a golden, crispy finish.
Step 4: Garnish & Serve
- Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
- Enjoy with crusty bread, pasta, or a light salad.
Cooking Tips & Variations
✔ Use Fresh Scallops – Fresh scallops have a sweet, delicate flavor and cook up beautifully. If using frozen, thaw them overnight in the fridge.
✔ Pat Dry for Best Browning – Removing excess moisture helps get a better texture and flavor.
✔ Make It Keto-Friendly – Serve with steamed veggies or cauliflower rice.
✔ Add More Flavor – Try adding white wine or a sprinkle of Old Bay seasoning for a seafood twist.
✔ Cheesy Twist – Mix extra Parmesan into the butter sauce for an even richer dish.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Reheat: Gently warm in a skillet over low heat with a little butter to prevent overcooking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How do I know when scallops are done?
Scallops are ready when they are opaque and slightly firm. They should reach an internal temperature of 125–130°F (52–54°C).
2. Can I use bay scallops instead?
Yes! Bay scallops are smaller and will cook faster, in about 8–10 minutes.
3. What should I serve with baked scallops?
Great pairings include garlic butter pasta, mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, or a fresh salad.
Why This Recipe Works
✔ Perfectly Cooked, Tender Scallops
✔ Rich, Buttery Garlic Flavor
✔ Simple Yet Elegant
Make these Garlic Butter Baked Scallops for a delicious seafood dish that’s sure to impress. Enjoy
