Name: Garlic Butter Baked Scallops: Your New Dinner Favorite
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Fresh Scallops (Fresh or thoroughly thawed if frozen); 4 tablespoons Butter (Can substitute with plant-based margarine for dairy-free); 4 cloves Garlic (Minced); 1 cup Breadcrumbs (Feel free to use almond flour for gluten-free); 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (Can substitute with Gruyère); 1/4 cup Parsley (Chopped, optional but recommended); 1 teaspoon Salt; 1 teaspoon Pepper (Adjust to taste)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

In just under 30 minutes, I can transform a regular weeknight dinner into an elegant dining experience with my Garlic Butter Baked Scallops. This delightful recipe highlights the natural sweetness of scallops, enhanced by a luxurious blend of buttery garlic and crispy breadcrumbs. What’s more, this dish is not only quick to prepare but also serves as a stunning centerpiece for special occasions or gatherings, winning over seafood lovers every time. The combination of tender scallops and that irresistible garlic-infused comfort makes this meal a true culinary triumph. Curious about how you can elevate your seafood game at home? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe together!

Why Will You Love Garlic Butter Baked Scallops?

Elegance in Simplicity: This recipe is easy to follow, making gourmet seafood accessible even for beginners.

Flavor Explosion: The succulent sweetness of the scallops paired with rich garlic butter creates an unforgettable taste experience.

Versatile Dish: While perfect as-is, you can swap scallops for shrimp or lobster when you want to mix things up—like in my Baked Garlic Parmesan dish!

Quick Cooking: In under 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to impress your family and friends.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: This dish is sure to be a hit at dinner parties or casual gatherings, served alongside a crisp salad or a glass of Chardonnay for that extra touch!

Number One Tip: Serve the scallops immediately after baking for that buttery, juicy goodness—you won’t want to miss a moment of these delectable bites!

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops Ingredients

For the Scallops
• Scallops – Fresh or thoroughly thawed if frozen for the best flavor and texture.

For the Garlic Butter Mixture
• Butter – Richness and flavor booster; you can substitute it with a plant-based margarine for a dairy-free version.
• Garlic – Fresh minced garlic provides a stronger taste; don’t be shy with this aromatic ingredient!

For the Crunchy Topping
• Breadcrumbs – Creates that irresistible crispy layer; feel free to use almond flour as a gluten-free option.
• Parmesan Cheese – Adds a salty, nutty flavor; Gruyère makes a great substitution for a different twist.
• Parsley – A bright note and garnish that adds freshness; optional but highly recommended!

For Seasoning
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for enhancing flavors; adjust to your taste preferences.

Now that you have all the ingredients ready, you’re just a few steps away from effortlessly creating these impressive Garlic Butter Baked Scallops that will undoubtedly become your new dinner favorite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take a baking dish and grease it lightly with butter or cooking spray to prevent the scallops from sticking. This step sets the stage for perfect garlic butter baked scallops, ensuring an easy release when serving.

Step 2: Dry the Scallops
Gently pat the fresh scallops dry with paper towels, removing any excess moisture. This ensures that the scallops bake beautifully without becoming watery. Properly dried scallops will achieve a lovely caramelization, enhancing the overall flavor in your garlic butter baked scallops.

Step 3: Make Garlic Butter Mixture
In a small mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic with the melted butter until well blended. This aromatic mixture will infuse your scallops with a delightful flavor. Once combined, set the bowl aside as we prepare the toppings for our garlic butter baked scallops.

Step 4: Prepare the Crunchy Topping
In another bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir until evenly combined. This crunchy topping adds a texture contrast to your scallops. The mixture should be evenly coated and fragrant, ready to be layered on top of your garlic butter baked scallops.

Step 5: Arrange the Scallops
Place the dried scallops in a single layer across the greased baking dish. They should be close but not touching, ensuring even cooking. Carefully spoon the garlic butter mixture over each scallop, allowing the buttery goodness to enhance their natural sweetness in this garlic butter baked scallops dish.

Step 6: Add the Topping
Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the scallops, making sure each scallop is generously covered. This step is crucial for that crispy, golden finish that defines garlic butter baked scallops. The topping should create a nice blanket over the scallops, ready to become delectably crunchy in the oven.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Slide the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on the scallops; they should be opaque and tender, while the topping turns a lovely golden brown. This timing is key for ensuring perfectly cooked garlic butter baked scallops, so don’t stray too far!

Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once removed from the oven, let the garlic butter baked scallops cool slightly. Garnish with additional chopped parsley for a fresh touch before serving. These scallops are best enjoyed immediately while they are warm and flavorful, showcasing their buttery, juicy goodness.

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops jmczgi

What to Serve with Garlic Butter Baked Scallops?

Elevate your dining experience with delightful companions that will beautifully complement your exquisite seafood dish.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The smooth, buttery texture pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of scallops, soaking up the garlic essence.
Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp salad adds a refreshing contrast, balancing the richness of the scallops with light, vibrant flavors.
Roasted Asparagus: Tender, roasted asparagus provides a slight crunch and earthy taste that harmonizes perfectly with buttery scallops.
Garlic Bread: The warm, crusty bread is perfect for mopping up any remaining garlic butter, enhancing each bite of scallops with its comforting texture.
Lemon Risotto: Creamy risotto adds a luxurious touch, with lemon notes brightening the overall flavor profile alongside the scallops.
Chardonnay: This elegant white wine offers bright acidity and citrus notes, making it a perfect pairing for the buttery richness of garlic butter baked scallops.
Pesto Pasta: Tossed with fresh basil and garlic, this herbaceous pasta complements the buttery scallops and adds a delightful layer of flavor.
Tiramisu: End the meal on a sweet note with a classic Italian dessert. The coffee and chocolate notes balance out the seafood course beautifully.

Storage Tips for Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

Fridge: Store any leftover garlic butter baked scallops in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave for best results.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze scallops in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Make sure they are well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw scallops overnight in the fridge before reheating. This ensures even heating and helps preserve texture.

Reheating: Reheat scallops in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes, to maintain that delicious garlic butter flavor.

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops Variations

Feel free to personalize this dish and make it your own with these delightful variations!

Shrimp Swap: Substitute scallops with shrimp for a quick seafood twist. Just ensure they’re peeled and deveined before baking.
Shrimps absorb flavors beautifully and add a slightly different texture that’s equally delicious!
Lobster Love: Use lobster meat instead of scallops for an even more luxurious experience. The rich flavor pairs perfectly with garlic butter.
This upgrade is sure to impress your dinner guests!
Cheesy Delight: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or goat cheese instead of Parmesan. Each cheese brings unique flavors to the dish.
A creamy layer will add an even richer taste that you won’t be able to resist!
Herb Infusion: Integrate different herbs like thyme or oregano for a fresh flavor twist alongside garlic. Each herb brings a new aroma.
A sprinkle of fresh herbs elevates the entire experience with fragrant notes.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to your breadcrumb mixture for a bit of heat. The spiciness will complement the sweetness of the scallops.
It’s a simple trick that adds a thrilling zing to your dish!
Dairy-Free Option: Use vegan butter and almond flour to keep it gluten-free and dairy-free. This way, everyone can enjoy this delicious meal!
You won’t miss anything with these substitutions; they bring their own delightful flavors to the table.
Pasta Partner: Serve the scallops over a bed of pasta instead of baking them alone. Toss with the garlicky sauce for a hearty meal.
It’s an easy way to create a filling dish that’s perfect for hungry seafood lovers!
Baked Pesto Version: Drizzle with pesto before baking for an aromatic twist that adds extraordinary depth to the dish.
This variation not only looks beautiful but adds vibrant flavors that brighten each bite!

Your journey to find the perfect Garlic Butter Baked Scallops flavor is just a few substitutions away. Each variation promises to create that “wow” factor at your next gathering! For more inspiration, try serving these baked scallops alongside a light salad or a comforting meal like my Baked Pesto Salmon for a full culinary experience.

Expert Tips for Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

Watch the Clock: Keep an eye on your scallops as they bake; overcooking can lead to rubbery texture, ruining your garlic butter baked scallops.

Even Layering: Ensure scallops are arranged in a single layer for consistent cooking. This prevents some scallops from being underdone while others are overcooked.

Make Ahead: Prepare the garlic butter mixture in advance, refrigerating it for up to three days to save time on busy weeknights.

Check Freshness: Always use fresh or properly thawed scallops; they ensure the best flavor and texture for your dish.

Flavor Variations: Experiment with herbs like thyme or oregano for a unique taste twist on your garlic butter baked scallops.

Make Ahead Options

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the garlic butter mixture and refrigerate it for up to 3 days, ensuring that all those flavors meld beautifully. Additionally, you can assemble the scallops in the baking dish, spooning over the garlic butter and topping them with breadcrumbs, then cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows you to enjoy the dish with minimal effort when it’s time to serve. When ready to cook, simply pop the dish into a preheated oven and bake as directed, adding a couple of extra minutes if they are chilled. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have restaurant-quality garlic butter baked scallops that taste just as delicious, all while saving precious time!

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops vdwqbn

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best scallops for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing scallops, look for ones that are sweet-smelling and have a slightly milky appearance—this indicates freshness. Avoid scallops that are slimy or have dark spots all over, as these can be signs of spoilage. If you’re using frozen scallops, ensure they are completely thawed and patted dry before proceeding with the recipe.

What’s the best way to store leftover garlic butter baked scallops?
Leftover garlic butter baked scallops can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. It’s essential to reheat them gently to maintain their tender texture. Pop them in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through for the best results.

Can I freeze garlic butter baked scallops? If so, how?
Very! For longer storage, you can freeze the scallops before baking. To do this, arrange the assembled dish in a freezer-safe container with a lid or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. It will last for up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw the dish overnight in the fridge and then follow the baking instructions, allowing for a few extra minutes if they are still chilled.

What should I do if my scallops are rubbery after baking?
If your garlic butter baked scallops turn out rubbery, it’s typically because they were overcooked. Keep in mind that scallops cook quickly, usually around 12-15 minutes at 375°F (190°C). For perfect scallops, watch them closely; they should be opaque and slightly firm to the touch. If they’re undercooked, you can always pop them back in for a few more minutes, but start checking just past the 10-minute mark.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Certainly! While garlic butter baked scallops are naturally gluten-free, always check your breadcrumbs if you are aiming for a gluten-free option. For those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies, using a plant-based margarine instead of butter is an excellent substitute. Always be cautious of any shellfish allergies, as scallops are a type of shellfish. Enjoy cooking!