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Garlic Butter Baked Scallops - Easy, Flavorful Recipe

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops – Easy, Flavorful Recipe


Description

Welcome to an irresistible seafood journey! Today, we’re diving into a dish that is not only luxurious but also incredibly easy to make—Garlic Butter Baked Scallops. These delicious scallops, drenched in a rich garlic butter sauce, topped with crispy breadcrumbs and Parmesan, are bound to steal the spotlight at your next dinner.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb large scallops (patted dry to remove excess moisture)
  • 4 tbsp butter (melted for that rich, buttery flavor)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced, because garlic makes everything better)
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (adds the perfect crispy topping)
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (grated, for a cheesy finish)
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, to bring freshness)
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice (brightens up the rich flavors)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Lemon wedges (for serving, a zesty touch)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First, set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Preheating the oven is crucial to ensuring the scallops bake evenly and the breadcrumbs crisp up perfectly.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture

In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. This simple yet flavorful mixture is the key to infusing the scallops with that rich garlic butter goodness.

Step 3: Assemble the Scallops

Place your scallops in a single layer in a greased baking dish. Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over the scallops, ensuring each one is generously coated. This will enhance the natural sweetness of the scallops while adding a savory kick.

Step 4: Add the Breadcrumb and Cheese Topping

In another bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley. Sprinkle this mixture over the scallops, covering them evenly. This breadcrumb topping will create a crunchy, cheesy layer that contrasts beautifully with the tender scallops.

Step 5: Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the scallops for 10-12 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the scallops are opaque, and the topping is golden brown. Be careful not to overcook them—scallops cook quickly and become tough if left in the oven for too long.

Step 6: Serve

Once baked to perfection, remove the scallops from the oven and let them rest for a minute. Serve them hot with lemon wedges on the side for an added burst of brightness.

Notes

  • Dry Your Scallops: Patting the scallops dry with paper towels before cooking helps them sear properly, preventing excess moisture from diluting the flavors.
  • Watch the Time: Scallops cook quickly. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking, which can result in a rubbery texture.
  • Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic offers the best flavor compared to pre-minced garlic from a jar.