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Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops combine the rich, buttery flavor of garlic with the delicate sweetness of tender scallops. This quick and elegant recipe brings restaurant-quality seafood to your kitchen, perfect as an appetizer or main course that impresses guests with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb dry-packed fresh scallops
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
  • Red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper, to taste (for a spicy kick)
  • Shredded mozzarella or gouda cheese (for cheesy upgrade)
  • Gluten-free breadcrumbs, for topping
  • 1 tbsp white wine (for added depth and aroma)

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
  2. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, gently melt the butter. Stir in freshly minced garlic and lemon juice, allowing the flavors to blend.
  3. Arrange the Scallops: Place the scallops in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. Season them lightly with salt and pepper to enhance their natural sweetness.
  4. Add the Sauce: Pour the garlic butter sauce evenly over the scallops, making sure each scallop is well coated for maximum flavor.
  5. Bake Until Perfect: Bake the scallops uncovered for 10–12 minutes until they turn opaque and develop slight golden edges but remain tender inside.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped parsley and, if desired, grated Parmesan cheese over the scallops, then serve immediately to enjoy at their best.

Notes

  • Choose Dry-Packed Scallops: Avoid wet scallops treated with preservatives for better texture and flavor.
  • Don’t Overcook: Watch scallops closely and remove once they turn opaque to prevent rubbery texture.
  • Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides a clean, vibrant flavor compared to pre-minced or powdered garlic.
  • Warm Butter Mixture: Pour warm garlic butter over scallops to infuse flavor while baking.
  • Serve Hot: Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are best enjoyed fresh from the oven with complementary sides.

Nutrition

Keywords: garlic butter scallops, baked scallops, seafood appetizer, gluten free scallops, easy scallops recipe