Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are a simple yet elegant dish that combines tender sea scallops with the rich, buttery flavor of garlic and Parmesan. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a romantic meal, these golden, flavorful scallops come together in under 30 minutes and pair beautifully with pasta, rice, or a crisp green salad.
Ingredients
1 lb sea scallops (cleaned and patted dry)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preheat oven: Set oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
Prepare scallops: Arrange the scallops in a single layer in the dish.
Make garlic butter: In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, garlic, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and paprika. Pour evenly over the scallops.
Add topping: Combine breadcrumbs and Parmesan, then sprinkle evenly over the scallops.
Bake: Bake for 12–15 minutes, until scallops are opaque and the topping is golden brown.
Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with parsley and serve hot with lemon wedges if desired.
Variation
Panko crunch: Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.
Add herbs: Mix in fresh thyme or basil for a Mediterranean twist.
Spicy version: Add a dash of cayenne or red pepper flakes for a mild kick.
Air fryer option: Cook at 400°F for about 8–10 minutes for a quicker, crispier finish.
Cooking Notes
Don’t overbake: Scallops cook quickly; remove them as soon as they turn opaque to avoid toughness.
Dry scallops well: Patting dry helps them brown better and prevents a soggy texture.
Even layer: Arrange scallops in one layer to ensure even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
With pasta: Serve over linguine tossed in garlic butter or white wine sauce.
Surf & turf: Pair with a small steak or roasted chicken for a special meal.
Light meal: Serve with steamed vegetables or a Caesar salad for a fresh contrast.
Tips
Use fresh scallops: Fresh, dry-packed scallops give the best flavor and texture.
Add citrus: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving brightens the flavor.
Make ahead: Assemble everything up to the breadcrumb topping, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Prep Time:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 220
Protein: 18g
Sodium: 420mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen scallops?
Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before baking to remove excess moisture.
What’s the best substitute for breadcrumbs?
Crushed crackers or almond meal work well for a gluten-free option.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Use olive oil or vegan butter and skip the Parmesan.
How do I know when scallops are done?
They should be opaque, slightly firm, and springy to the touch.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are a quick, restaurant-quality dish that’s easy enough for weeknights but elegant enough for entertaining. With buttery garlic sauce, a crisp topping, and tender scallops, this recipe delivers pure seafood bliss in every bite.
