Garlic Butter Baked Scallops: A Family Favorite Recipe
If you’re craving something that feels both indulgent and effortless, then Garlic Butter Baked Scallops: A Family Favorite Recipe is your next culinary obsession. This dish combines tender, juicy scallops with a luscious garlic-infused butter sauce, topped with a golden, crispy breadcrumb and Parmesan crust — creating a harmony of flavors and textures that feels like a warm hug at the dinner table. It’s simple enough for a weeknight treat but impressive enough to wow guests, making it a true crowd-pleaser in our family and beyond.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may look straightforward, but each one plays a crucial role in building flavors and textures that elevate this dish from ordinary to extraordinary. From the creamy butter to the fragrant garlic and the zesty lemon juice, every component adds a special touch to these baked scallops.
- 1 lb large scallops, patted dry: Dry scallops sear and bake better, preventing excess moisture and ensuring a tender bite.
- 4 tbsp butter, melted: This rich, creamy base carries all the vivid garlic flavor and keeps the scallops moist and luscious.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds the distinctive punch and aroma that defines the dish.
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs: They give that irresistible crunchy topping to contrast the soft scallops underneath.
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated: Parmesan brings a salty, nutty depth and helps create a golden crust.
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a burst of fresh color and earthy brightness to balance the richness.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice: A splash of acidity to brighten and lift all the flavors.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance the natural sweetness of the scallops.
- Lemon wedges (for serving): The perfect finishing touch that guests can squeeze over for extra zing.
How to Make Garlic Butter Baked Scallops: A Family Favorite Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven will bake the scallops quickly to tender perfection while crisping up that breadcrumb topping beautifully.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter
Mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. This flavorful sauce is the heart of the dish, infusing each scallop with buttery, garlicky goodness and a hint of fresh citrus.
Step 3: Assemble the Scallops
Arrange the scallops in a single layer in your baking dish and generously pour the garlic butter mixture over them. Make sure every scallop is well coated so each bite is bursting with flavor.
Step 4: Add the Topping
In another bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley. Sprinkle this mixture evenly across the scallops to create that signature golden, cheesy crust that contrasts perfectly with the tender scallops.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the scallops turn opaque and the topping is an inviting golden brown. Resist the urge to overbake — these scallops should be soft and juicy inside, with a delightful crispy topping.
Step 6: Serve
Serve the Garlic Butter Baked Scallops hot from the oven with fresh lemon wedges on the side. The squeezed lemon juice adds a fresh zesty finish that complements the richness beautifully.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Baked Scallops: A Family Favorite Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra fresh parsley or a dash of freshly cracked black pepper can add an extra pop of color and flavor. Lemon wedges are a must for guests to brighten every bite just the way they like it.
Side Dishes
These baked scallops pair wonderfully with simple sides like garlic mashed potatoes, steamed asparagus, or a light mixed greens salad. A crusty baguette for soaking up any leftover garlic butter is also a winning choice.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve the scallops in individual ramekins or on a bed of creamy risotto or linguine tossed lightly with garlic and olive oil. Presenting them on a platter garnished with lemon slices and parsley makes for a stunning centerpiece everyone will admire before digging in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover scallops in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to two days. The flavors remain delicious, but the texture is best enjoyed fresh.
Freezing
While scallops are best when fresh, you can freeze the cooked dish if necessary. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to one month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating gently.
Reheating
To reheat, use a low heat setting in the oven or toaster oven to warm the scallops without drying them out. Avoid microwaving as it can make the scallops rubbery and the breadcrumb topping soggy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?
Yes, frozen scallops work well as long as they are fully thawed and patted dry. Removing excess moisture is key to getting the best texture when baking.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
You can easily make this dish gluten-free by substituting the regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs without sacrificing any flavor or crunch.
Can I add other seasonings to the garlic butter?
Absolutely! A pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of red chili flakes can add a pleasant depth or gentle heat without overpowering the scallops’ delicate flavor.
How do I know when the scallops are perfectly cooked?
The scallops should be opaque all the way through and slightly firm but still tender. Overcooking can make them tough, so watching the time closely is important.
Can this recipe be doubled for a larger crowd?
Definitely! Just increase ingredient quantities accordingly and use a larger baking dish, ensuring scallops are arranged in a single layer for even cooking.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to create a memorable meal that feels both comforting and a little bit special, you absolutely must try Garlic Butter Baked Scallops: A Family Favorite Recipe. It’s one of those dishes that never fails to spark joy at the table and keeps everyone coming back for more. So grab those scallops and start baking — your taste buds will thank you!
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Garlic Butter Baked Scallops: A Family Favorite Recipe
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Delight in these Garlic Butter Baked Scallops, a quick and flavorful seafood dish featuring tender scallops baked in a rich garlic butter sauce and topped with a crispy Parmesan breadcrumb crust. Perfect as a family favorite or an elegant appetizer, this recipe combines simple ingredients for a deliciously savory meal ready in just 22 minutes.
Ingredients
Scallops
- 1 lb large scallops, patted dry
Garlic Butter Sauce
- 4 tbsp butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
To Serve
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s ready to bake the scallops perfectly.
- Prepare the Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper, mixing thoroughly to create a flavorful garlic butter sauce.
- Assemble the Scallops: Arrange the scallops in a single layer inside a baking dish. Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over them, making sure every scallop is well-coated with the sauce.
- Add the Topping: In another small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley. Sprinkle this mixture evenly on top of the scallops to create a crunchy, cheesy crust.
- Bake the Scallops: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes until the scallops turn opaque and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve the baked scallops hot, accompanied by fresh lemon wedges to squeeze over for added brightness and flavor.
Notes
- Make sure to pat the scallops dry before baking to achieve a better sear and prevent excess moisture.
- Do not overcook the scallops; they should be opaque and just firm to the touch to avoid a rubbery texture.
- Fresh parsley can be substituted with dried, but use less as dried herbs have a stronger flavor.
- This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables or a light green salad for a balanced meal.
- Lemon wedges add a refreshing acidity and are recommended to enhance flavor just before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
