Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

There’s something truly special about scallops—tender, sweet, and oh-so-delicious when prepared just right. Today, I’m excited to share with you my Garlic Butter Baked Scallops recipe, one that’s packed with flavor and perfect for a cozy dinner at home or impressing guests at a gathering. The rich, garlicky butter and crispy breadcrumb-Parmesan topping will have everyone asking for seconds!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons why this recipe has become a favorite in my kitchen:

Simple yet elegant: With minimal ingredients and steps, these baked scallops are surprisingly easy to make, yet they look (and taste!) like something you’d order at a fancy restaurant.
Incredible flavor: The combination of garlic, butter, and lemon with the crispy Parmesan topping makes these scallops anything but boring!
Versatile pairing: These scallops pair beautifully with a variety of sides, from pasta to fresh salads, making them a go-to choice for any occasion.

What Do Garlic Butter Baked Scallops Taste Like?

The flavor is nothing short of divine. The scallops are soft and tender on the inside, while the topping adds a crunchy contrast with buttery garlic, nutty Parmesan, and fresh parsley. Each bite is a perfect balance of richness, citrusy brightness, and the savory touch from the cheese. And the smell when they’re baking? Simply irresistible!

Benefits of This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With only 22 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner when you want something a bit special but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.
Healthy and Light: Scallops are a lean source of protein, and with just a touch of butter and cheese, this recipe still feels light and healthy without sacrificing flavor.
Customizable: You can easily tweak this recipe based on your preferences, and I’ll share some ideas for substitutions below.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 lb large scallops, patted dry
4 tbsp butter, melted
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tbsp lemon juice
Salt and pepper, to taste
Lemon wedges, for serving

Tools Needed

Baking dish
Small mixing bowls
Whisk or fork
Measuring spoons and cups
Oven

Ingredient Additions and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to customize! Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

Breadcrumb options: Swap the regular breadcrumbs for panko if you want an extra crispy topping.
Cheese choices: While Parmesan adds a nutty depth, you could experiment with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
Herb variations: If you’re out of parsley, fresh thyme or basil would work beautifully in this dish.

How to Make Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

Let’s break it down step-by-step:

1. Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s ready by the time you’re done prepping the scallops.

2. Prepare the Garlic Butter

In a small bowl, combine your melted butter with minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. This mixture will infuse the scallops with garlicky goodness as they bake.

3. Assemble the Scallops

Arrange the scallops in a single layer in a baking dish. Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over them, making sure each scallop is coated.

4. Add the Topping

In another bowl, stir together the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Sprinkle this mixture over the scallops to form that crispy, cheesy crust we all love.

5. Bake

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the scallops turn opaque and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown.

6. Serve

Serve the scallops hot with fresh lemon wedges for an extra burst of citrusy brightness. Enjoy them alongside your favorite sides!

What to Serve with Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

These scallops are incredibly versatile. I love serving them with:

Steamed vegetables: Asparagus or green beans are excellent options.
A fresh salad: A light, citrusy salad complements the richness of the dish.
Rice or pasta: For something heartier, serve these scallops over rice pilaf or a simple buttered pasta.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

Pat the scallops dry: This is crucial for getting the perfect sear. Any excess moisture can make them steam rather than bake.
Don’t overcook them! Scallops cook quickly, so keep a close eye on them. Overcooked scallops can become tough and rubbery.

Storage Instructions

If you have any leftovers (which might be unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warmed through. Be careful not to overcook them during reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?

Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before baking.

What’s the best way to tell if scallops are done cooking?

Scallops are ready when they are opaque and firm to the touch. The internal temperature should reach 125°F (51°C).

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Swap the butter for a plant-based alternative and skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free substitute.

I hope you enjoy this simple yet incredibly delicious Garlic Butter Baked Scallops recipe! It’s quickly become one of my go-tos for a fast but flavorful dinner. If you try it out, I’d love to hear what you think—feel free to leave a review or share your creations on Pinterest. Happy cooking!