Looking for a luxurious yet easy-to-make seafood dish? This Garlic Butter Baked Scallops Recipe is the perfect answer! Tender scallops are coated in a luscious garlic butter sauce, baked to golden perfection, and finished with a crispy breadcrumb topping. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy date night at home, these oven-baked scallops are an irresistible choice.

This dish pairs beautifully with pasta, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad, making it a versatile addition to your rotation of scallop dinner ideas. Let’s dive into this easy and elegant recipe!

🍴 Garlic Butter Baked Scallops Recipe

Difficulty:

Easy

Prep Time:

10 minutes

Cook Time:

15 minutes

Total Time:

25 minutes

Servings:

4

Ingredients

For the Baked Scallops:

• 1 lb sea scallops (cleaned and patted dry)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon lemon zest
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• ⅓ cup Panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges

Step-By-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or oven-safe skillet to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter

1. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, paprika, lemon zest, crushed red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until fully mixed.

Step 3: Arrange the Scallops

1. Place the sea scallops in the prepared baking dish in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
2. Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over the scallops, coating each one thoroughly.

Step 4: Add the Topping

1. In a small bowl, mix the Panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
2. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the scallops. This will create a golden, crispy topping as they bake.

Step 5: Bake the Scallops

1. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the scallops are opaque and cooked through.
2. For an extra golden crust, switch the oven to broil for the last 2–3 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the scallops from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
2. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for added brightness.

Serving Suggestions

These garlic butter baked scallops are incredibly versatile. Here are a few ideas to complete your meal:

• Over Pasta: Pair with linguine or fettuccine tossed in garlic butter for an indulgent dish reminiscent of scallops and shrimp pasta garlic butter.
• With Shrimp: Add shrimp to the baking dish for a hearty combo, perfect for fans of shrimp and scallops recipes.
• On the Side: Serve alongside roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli, or a crisp Caesar salad.
• With Bread: Mop up the delicious garlic butter sauce with warm crusty bread or garlic bread.

Pro Tips for Perfect Baked Scallops

• Scallop Prep: Make sure your scallops are dry before cooking to help them achieve the perfect texture. Pat them gently with paper towels before placing them in the dish.
• Cooking Time: Overcooked scallops can become rubbery. Keep a close eye on them and remove from the oven as soon as they turn opaque.
• Cheese Options: For a bolder flavor, swap Parmesan with Gruyère or Pecorino Romano.
• Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs give a light and crispy topping, but regular breadcrumbs will also work in a pinch.
• Wine Pairing: Serve this dish with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay for a restaurant-quality experience.

Leftovers and Storage

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven for about 8 minutes to retain the best texture. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the scallops rubbery.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This garlic butter baked scallops recipe is all about simplicity and elegance. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that feels like a fancy restaurant meal but is easy enough for weeknights. The combination of tender scallops, rich garlic butter, and a golden, crispy topping makes it utterly irresistible.