This Garlic Butter Baked Scallops recipe is quick, flavorful, and perfect for seafood lovers. Tender scallops baked in a buttery, garlicky sauce make for an elegant yet simple dish you can whip up in no time.
Garlic Butter Baked Scallops
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: Serves 4 | Category: Seafood | Method: Baking | Cuisine: American | Diet: Low Calorie
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sea scallops, cleaned and patted dry | 1 pound |
| Unsalted butter, melted | 4 tbsp |
| Garlic, minced | 4 cloves |
| Fresh parsley, chopped | 1 tbsp |
| Lemon juice | 1 tsp |
| Salt | ½ tsp |
| Black pepper | ¼ tsp |
| Paprika | ¼ tsp |
| Breadcrumbs (optional) | ¼ cup |
| Lemon wedges | For serving |
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven:
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). - Make Garlic Butter:
In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir until well blended. - Prepare Scallops:
Place scallops in a single layer in a baking dish. Pour the garlic butter evenly over the scallops. If using, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for extra texture. - Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until scallops turn opaque and are cooked through. - Serve:
Let scallops rest for a minute or two, then serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Notes:
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a mild spicy kick.
- For a different crunch, swap breadcrumbs with crushed crackers or panko.
This dish is simple, elegant, and packed with buttery, garlicky flavor—perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.