Here’s a recipe for Garlic Butter Baked Scallops—a simple, flavorful dish that brings out the natural sweetness of scallops with a rich garlic butter sauce. Perfect for a quick and elegant meal!
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh scallops, patted dry
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for a crispy topping)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Scallops: Place the scallops in a baking dish, ensuring they’re in a single layer so they cook evenly.
- Make the Garlic Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well to mix.
- Pour the Mixture: Pour the garlic butter mixture over the scallops, coating them thoroughly.
- Add Parmesan and Breadcrumbs: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the scallops. If you like a crispier finish, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top as well.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, until scallops are opaque and slightly firm to the touch. If using breadcrumbs, you can broil the dish for an additional 1-2 minutes to brown the top.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy your scallops over a bed of pasta, rice, or with a fresh green salad.
Tips
- Scallop Selection: For best results, use fresh sea scallops. Avoid using frozen scallops unless they are fully thawed and patted dry.
- Don’t Overbake: Scallops can become rubbery if overcooked, so keep an eye on them and remove from the oven as soon as they turn opaque.
Enjoy your deliciously buttery, garlic-scented baked scallops!