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Garlic Butter Baked Scallops Recipe

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops Recipe


  • Author: Imili Johnson
  • Total Time: 22 minutes
  • Yield: 4

Ingredients

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb large scallops, patted dry

  • 4 tablespoons butter, melted

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)

  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated

  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed for best flavor)

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • Lemon wedges, for serving


Instructions

Preparation:

 

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). It’s important that the oven is fully heated before you begin baking to ensure even cooking and a crispy topping.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter

In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. This mixture is the heart of the dish—it infuses the scallops with rich, buttery flavor balanced by a hint of citrus and aromatic garlic.

Step 3: Assemble the Scallops

Place the scallops in a single layer in a lightly greased baking dish or cast-iron skillet. Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over the scallops, making sure each piece is generously coated. This not only flavors the scallops but also helps them stay moist and tender while baking.

Step 4: Add the Topping

In another bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley. Sprinkle this breadcrumb mixture evenly over the scallops. This topping will form a golden crust as it bakes, adding irresistible texture to every bite.

Step 5: Bake

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the scallops are opaque and the topping is golden brown. Be careful not to overcook them—scallops should remain tender and juicy. A slight spring when touched is a good indicator of doneness.

Notes

Cooking Note:

  • Scallops naturally release liquid when cooked. If you see some pooling in the baking dish, don’t worry—it’s normal. Using large, dry-packed scallops (and patting them dry beforehand) minimizes excess moisture.

  • Use fresh scallops whenever possible for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, thaw them completely in the refrigerator and pat dry thoroughly.

  • Broil for extra crispiness. If you like a more toasted topping, you can broil the scallops for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end, watching closely to prevent burning.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes

Nutrition

  • Calories: ~275 kcal
  • Sodium: ~430mg
  • Fat: ~18g
  • Carbohydrates: ~7g
  • Protein: ~22g