🦪 Garlic Butter Baked Scallops
🌿 Description
These garlic butter baked scallops are tender, juicy, and full of rich Mediterranean flavor. Fresh scallops are baked in a luscious garlic butter sauce with lemon, herbs, and a light golden breadcrumb topping. The result is a restaurant-quality seafood dish that’s elegant yet incredibly easy to prepare. Perfect for special dinners or quick weeknight meals, this recipe takes less than 25 minutes from start to finish.
🛒 Ingredients
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1 lb sea scallops
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3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tbsp olive oil
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¼ cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
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¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
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1 tsp lemon zest (optional)
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1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
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½ tsp paprika
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Salt and black pepper to taste
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
2. Prepare the scallops
Pat the scallops dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and pepper and arrange them in the baking dish.
3. Make the garlic butter sauce
In a small bowl mix melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, and parsley.
4. Prepare the topping
In another bowl combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and lemon zest.
5. Assemble the dish
Pour the garlic butter mixture over the scallops, then sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly on top.
6. Bake
Bake for 12–15 minutes until the scallops are opaque and the topping is golden.
7. Serve
Garnish with extra parsley and a squeeze of fresh lemon.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with:
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Garlic butter pasta
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Steamed rice or risotto
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Roasted asparagus or broccoli
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Fresh Mediterranean salad
❓ Q & A
Q: How do I know when scallops are cooked?
They turn opaque and slightly firm but should still be tender.
Q: Can I use frozen scallops?
Yes, just thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
Q: Can I make it without breadcrumbs?
Absolutely. Skip them for a lighter dish or replace with crushed nuts.
Q: How long do leftovers last?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheat gently.
Q: What type of scallops should I use?
Sea scallops are best for baking because they’re larger and meatier.
✨ Tip: Add a splash of white wine to the garlic butter sauce for an even more luxurious flavor.
