Description
Garlic Butter Baked Scallops feature tender, juicy sea scallops topped with a flavorful mixture of melted butter, garlic, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and paprika, baked to golden perfection. This easy and elegant dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Scallops
- 1 lb sea scallops (cleaned and patted dry)
Topping
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Panko preferred)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s at the perfect temperature for baking the scallops evenly and achieving a golden topping.
- Prepare the scallops: Pat the sea scallops completely dry using paper towels to remove any excess moisture, then place them evenly spaced in a lightly greased baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Make the garlic butter topping: In a medium bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter, minced garlic, Panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, paprika, and season with salt and pepper to taste, mixing until well blended.
- Apply the topping: Spoon the garlic butter mixture evenly over each scallop, ensuring each one is generously covered for maximum flavor and a crispy crust.
- Bake the scallops: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes, until the scallops become opaque and the breadcrumb topping turns golden brown and crisp.
- Optional broiling: For an extra crispy topping, you can broil the scallops for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the scallops from the oven, garnish them with fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately to enjoy their warm, buttery goodness.
Notes
- Ensure scallops are dry before baking to achieve a better sear and prevent sogginess.
- Use Panko breadcrumbs for a lighter, crispier topping.
- Broil briefly only if you want extra crispiness; watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Fresh parsley adds color and a mild herbal note but is optional.
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Adjust seasoning according to taste preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: baked scallops, garlic butter scallops, seafood recipe, dinner, easy scallop recipe, Parmesan scallops
