Garlic Butter Baked Scallops Recipe

Introduction

This Garlic Butter Baked Scallops recipe is your ticket to an impressive yet incredibly easy 15-minute dinner. Plump, tender scallops are baked in a rich, aromatic garlic butter sauce for a dish that feels luxurious without any fuss. For another elegant seafood meal, try this Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp & Crab Recipe or a simple side of Perfect Baked Sweet Potatoes Recipe.

Ingredients

This simple recipe for Garlic Butter Baked Scallops combines sweet, tender scallops with a savory, golden crust for an impressive yet easy dish.

• 1 lb big sea scallops
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon parsley (fresh or dried)
• ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 tbsp butter
• 3 cloves garlic, finely minced

Timing

Prep Time	10 minutes
Cook Time	10 minutes
Total Time	20 minutes

Context: This simple, hands-off method for baking scallops in garlic butter is about 25% faster than similar recipes that require pan-searing or a more complex sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prep the Scallops

Pat the scallops completely dry with paper towels. This is crucial for a good sear and to prevent steaming. Remove the small, tough side muscle if it’s still attached.

Step 2 — Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In a small bowl, combine melted unsalted butter, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, and chopped parsley. Season the mixture with a pinch of salt and black pepper. For extra flavor, a dash of white wine or a pinch of red pepper flakes works beautifully.

Step 3 — Arrange in Baking Dish

Place the dried scallops in a single layer in a lightly greased baking dish or a cast-iron skillet. Ensure they aren’t crowded so they cook evenly. Pour the prepared garlic butter sauce evenly over the top of each scallop.

Step 4 — Add Topping & Preheat Oven

For a golden, crispy finish, sprinkle a mixture of panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese over the sauced scallops. While you do this, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven is key for perfect baked scallops.

Step 5 — Bake to Perfection

Bake the Garlic Butter Baked Scallops on a center rack for 12–15 minutes. The scallops are done when they are opaque and firm to the touch, and the topping is golden brown. Avoid overcooking, as they can become rubbery.

For larger sea scallops, you may need an extra minute or two. The internal temperature should reach 115–120°F (46–49°C) for medium doneness when checked with an instant-read thermometer.

Step 6 — Broil for Crispiness (Optional)

If you desire an extra-crispy top, switch the oven to broil for the final 1–2 minutes of cooking. Watch closely to prevent burning. This step gives a wonderful textural contrast to the tender scallops.

Step 7 — Rest and Garnish

Let the baked scallops rest for 2–3 minutes after removing them from the oven. This allows the juices to redistribute. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving.

Nutritional Information

Calories	~280 kcal
Protein	~24 g
Carbohydrates	~5 g
Fat	~18 g
Fiber	~0.5 g
Sodium	~650 mg

These Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are a good source of protein, vitamin B12, and selenium. The values are estimates based on a typical serving size and common ingredient brands.

Healthier Alternatives

This classic recipe for Garlic Butter Baked Scallops is wonderfully adaptable. Here are several simple swaps to suit different dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.

• Protein Swap: Shrimp or White Fish — Use large shrimp or a firm white fish like cod or halibut. They bake beautifully in the garlic butter sauce, offering a similar sweet, delicate seafood flavor.
• Lower-Carb Option: Zucchini Noodles — Serve your garlic butter baked scallops over a bed of zucchini noodles (zoodles) instead of pasta or rice for a light, vegetable-forward meal.
• Dairy-Free Butter — Replace regular butter with a high-quality plant-based butter or refined coconut oil. The rich, savory base of the sauce remains perfectly intact.
• Gluten-Free Breadcrumbs — For a crispy topping, use gluten-free panko or crushed pork rinds instead of traditional breadcrumbs to keep this dish celiac-friendly.
• Low-Sodium Twist — Use unsalted butter and a salt-free seasoning blend. Amplify flavor with extra fresh herbs like parsley, a squeeze of lemon, and a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Lighter Creaminess: Greek Yogurt — For a creamier sauce with more protein, blend a tablespoon of plain Greek yogurt into the melted garlic butter before baking.
• Herb-Infused Oil — For an extra flavor layer, infuse your butter or oil with fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs while it melts, then strain before mixing with garlic.

Serving Suggestions

These rich and savory Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are incredibly versatile. Here are some ideas for pairings, occasions, and presentation to make your seafood dinner shine.

• Perfect Pairings: Serve over a bed of creamy risotto, angel hair pasta, or fluffy jasmine rice to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce. For a lighter option, pair with a crisp green salad or roasted asparagus.
• Occasion Ideas: This elegant dish is perfect for a romantic date night at home, a special holiday meal like Christmas Eve, or an impressive appetizer for a dinner party.
• Plating Tips: For a restaurant-quality look, serve the scallops in their own baking dish or on a warm platter. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, a squeeze of lemon, and a sprinkle of microgreens for color.
• Complete the Meal: Complement the flavors with a side of crusty bread for dipping, a glass of chilled Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, and a simple dessert like lemon sorbet.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using wet scallops (treated with STP). Fix: Seek out “dry-packed” scallops, which sear better and won’t release excess liquid during baking.
• Mistake: Overcrowding the baking dish. Fix: Arrange scallops in a single layer with space between them to ensure even cooking and proper browning.
• Mistake: Skipping the pat-dry step. Fix: Thoroughly pat each scallop dry with paper towels before seasoning; this is key for the garlic butter to adhere and not slide off.
• Mistake: Baking at too low a temperature. Fix: Use a high heat (400-425°F / 200-220°C) to quickly cook the delicate flesh without toughening it.
• Mistake: Overcooking the scallops. Fix: Bake just until the centers are opaque and slightly firm to the touch, typically 10-12 minutes for large scallops.
• Mistake: Adding raw garlic directly to cold butter. Fix: Gently sauté minced garlic in the butter first to mellow its bite and infuse the fat fully.
• Mistake: Using only butter for the sauce. Fix: Add a splash of white wine or lemon juice to the baking dish to create a bright, pan-sauce consistency.
• Mistake: Neglecting to season the scallops themselves. Fix: Season the scallops with salt and pepper before adding the garlic butter; the sauce seasons the dish, not the protein.
• Mistake: Not preheating the baking dish. Fix: Place your empty dish in the oven as it preheats for a faster, more aggressive sear on the bottom.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store leftover Garlic Butter Baked Scallops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Ensure they have cooled to room temperature before sealing.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the scallops in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat: For best results, reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes. You can also use the microwave in short bursts. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.

Proper storage is key to enjoying your Garlic Butter Baked Scallops safely and maintaining their delicate texture. Always use shallow containers for quick cooling.

Conclusion

This Garlic Butter Baked Scallops recipe is an elegant yet simple dish perfect for a special night. For another luxurious seafood appetizer, try our Best Creamy Crab Stuffed Mushrooms Ready in 30 Minutes. We hope you love it—please leave a comment and subscribe for more delicious recipes!

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FAQs

What type of scallops are best for Garlic Butter Baked Scallops?

Use fresh, dry-packed sea scallops for the best results in this Garlic Butter Baked Scallops recipe. Avoid wet-packed scallops, as they contain extra water that will steam out and prevent proper browning. Pat your scallops very dry with paper towels before baking.

How do I know when the baked scallops are done?

Your Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are perfectly cooked when they turn opaque and firm to the touch. They should have a slight golden crust on top from the butter and breadcrumb mixture. Overcooking will make them tough and rubbery, so watch them closely near the end of the bake time.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the garlic butter sauce and breadcrumb topping ahead of time, but assemble and bake just before serving. For the best texture, place the scallops in the baking dish and top them right before they go into the oven. This ensures your Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are fresh and not soggy.