Savory Garlic Butter Scallops: Easy Baked Recipe

Indulge in the luxurious flavors of Garlic Butter Baked Scallops, a dish that effortlessly marries tender sweetness with a rich garlicky punch. These scallops are not just a meal; they’re an experience. Picture succulent sea scallops bathed in a luscious garlic butter sauce, sprinkled with a hint of smoky paprika, and finished with a crispy breadcrumb topping. It’s a culinary masterpiece that will elevate any occasion, whether it’s a romantic dinner for two or a cozy family feast.

I still remember the first time I made these Garlic Butter Baked Scallops for a special anniversary dinner at home. The look of amazement on my partner’s face as they savored each bite was priceless. Since then, this dish has become a staple in our home, a go-to recipe whenever we crave something extraordinary yet fuss-free. The magic of these scallops lies in their simplicity; with minimal effort, you can create a gourmet meal that rivals the best restaurant offerings. So, grab a glass of wine, set the table, and get ready to impress your loved ones with this unforgettable dish.

Whether you choose to enjoy these Garlic Butter Baked Scallops with a side of angel hair pasta, a crisp green salad, or a creamy risotto, one thing is certain: each bite is a symphony of flavors that will transport you to a place of pure culinary bliss. So, dive into this recipe, savor the exquisite taste of perfectly cooked scallops, and create memories around the dinner table that will last a lifetime. Garlic Butter Baked Scallops – a dish that’s sure to become a star in your recipe repertoire.

Quick Benefits

• Easy yet elegant main course: Impress your guests or loved ones with minimal effort, making it perfect for special dinners or cozy weeknights alike.
• Rich garlicky flavor: Indulge in the irresistible combination of garlic butter and paprika, creating a savory taste explosion in every bite.
• Versatile serving options: Enjoy the scallops over pasta, with a salad, or alongside asparagus, allowing you to customize the dish to suit your preferences and occasion.
• Make-ahead friendly: Prepare the butter mixture in advance and refrigerate, making it convenient for quick assembly and baking when you’re ready.

Why You’ll Love This Savory Garlic Butter Scallops: Easy Baked Recipe Recipe

• Effortless Elegance: Impress your guests or loved ones with a dish that looks and tastes gourmet, yet requires minimal effort to put together.
• Rich, Garlicky Flavor: The combination of garlic, butter, and paprika creates a luxurious taste profile that will leave you craving more with every bite.
• Versatile Pairings: Whether served with a crisp salad, fresh baguette, pasta, or risotto, these scallops can be paired with a variety of sides to suit any occasion or craving.
• Memorable Dining Experience: Create lasting memories with this dish that is perfect for special dinners, cozy date nights, or any time you want to elevate your mealtime.
• Make Ahead: The butter mixture can be prepared in advance, allowing for easy assembly and baking when you’re ready to enjoy your delicious scallops.
• Year-Round Appeal: While perfect for winter comfort food, the bright flavors of lemon and parsley make this dish suitable for any season, ensuring it remains a favorite all year long.
• Celiac-Friendly Adaptations: With options for gluten-free breadcrumbs or omitting the crumbs entirely, this recipe can cater to those with dietary restrictions without compromising on taste.

Ingredients for Savory Garlic Butter Scallops: Easy Baked Recipe

Seafood

• 1 pound fresh sea scallops, cleaned and patted dry

Aromatics and Herbs

• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

Dairy

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Seasonings

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Toppings and Garnishes

• Lemon wedges, for serving
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (panko or crushed crackers optional)

Pro Tips for Savory Garlic Butter Scallops: Easy Baked Recipe

Pro Tip 1: To ensure perfectly cooked scallops, bake them just until they are opaque and firm, which typically takes around 12-15 minutes. Overcooking can lead to tough scallops, so keep a close eye on them as they bake.

Pro Tip 2: If using frozen scallops, make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry to remove any excess moisture. This step helps maintain the best texture and flavor in your dish.

Pro Tip 3: While fresh parsley adds a vibrant flavor, if you don’t have it on hand, dried parsley can be a suitable substitute. Alternatively, you can experiment with other herbs like chives or fresh dill to customize the dish to your taste preferences.

How to Make Savory Garlic Butter Scallops: Easy Baked Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) for even cooking and a golden finish.

Step 2: Combine Garlic Butter

Combine melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and paprika in a small bowl and whisk until well mixed.

Step 3: Arrange Scallops in Baking Dish

Arrange the cleaned scallops in a single layer in a baking dish, ensuring there is space between each scallop for even cooking.

Step 4: Dress Scallops with Garlic Butter

Evenly pour the garlic butter mixture over the scallops to coat them well. Optionally, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for added crispiness.

Step 5: Bake Scallops

Place the dish in the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes until scallops are opaque and firm to the touch.

Step 6: Serve with Lemon

Take out of the oven and let it rest for 2 minutes. Serve right away, garnished with lemon wedges.

Storage Tips

To store Garlic Butter Baked Scallops, place any leftovers in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator for up to two days. When reheating, ensure to do so gently in a low oven covered with foil or in a skillet with a splash of extra butter to maintain the best texture. It is recommended not to freeze cooked scallops as they can turn tough, but if needed, raw scallops freeze well for future use.

For variations, if sea scallops are unavailable, small bay scallops can be used, but keep an eye on the cooking time as they cook faster. Additionally, dried parsley can be substituted if fresh is not available, using half the amount. To make the dish gluten-free, use gluten-free panko or cracker crumbs. Pair the scallops with a crisp green salad, fresh baguette, angel hair pasta, or steamed asparagus to complement the rich garlic butter flavors. Enjoy this dish year-round, especially during the winter months for comforting indulgence or in the spring when the flavors of lemons and parsley are at their brightest.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find sea scallops, small bay scallops can be used as a substitute, but keep in mind they cook faster, so check for doneness around 8-10 minutes. Additionally, if fresh parsley is not available, dried parsley can be used as a replacement, using half the amount called for in the recipe. For a different herbal note, you can also try using chives or fresh dill in place of parsley.

While breadcrumbs add a nice crunchy texture to the dish, they are optional. You can use gluten-free panko or omit them altogether for a celiac-friendly version of the recipe. Feel free to experiment with different toppings or leave them out entirely based on your dietary preferences.

The butter mixture for the scallops can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated until you are ready to assemble and bake the dish. This can help save time and make the cooking process more convenient, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal with minimal effort.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try arranging the Garlic Butter Baked Scallops on a bed of creamy lemon risotto. The rich, garlicky scallops paired with the bright, tangy flavors of the risotto create a luxurious and indulgent meal. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice for a burst of freshness.

Another fun way to serve these scallops is to skewer them with a piece of crusty bread or a crispy potato wedge. This creates a portable and elegant appetizer or tapas-style dish that is perfect for entertaining. Drizzle any remaining garlic butter sauce over the skewers for an extra burst of flavor.

FAQs for Savory Garlic Butter Scallops: Easy Baked Recipe

Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?

Yes, but thaw them thoroughly and pat dry to remove excess moisture for the best texture and flavor.

Can I substitute fresh parsley with dried parsley in this recipe?

Dried parsley works in a pinch, or try chives or fresh dill for a different herbal note.

Are breadcrumbs necessary in this recipe?

No, breadcrumbs add a crunchy topping but are optional. You may use panko or omit them altogether.

Can I prepare the butter mixture ahead of time?

Yes, the butter mixture can be made ahead and refrigerated until ready to assemble and bake.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are truly a delightful dish that never fails to impress. Whether you are treating yourself to a luxurious meal or hosting a special dinner, these scallops will elevate any occasion with their rich flavors and elegant presentation. The blend of garlic, butter, and paprika creates a symphony of taste that is both comforting and indulgent.

So, don’t hesitate to whip up a batch of these Garlic Butter Baked Scallops for your next dinner. They are the perfect combination of simplicity and sophistication, sure to leave a lasting impression on your guests or simply bring joy to your taste buds. Give this recipe a try and discover the magic of these delectable scallops bathed in flavorful garlic butter. Your kitchen will soon be filled with the inviting aroma of this dish, promising a delightful dining experience that you’ll want to repeat time and time again.