Betty’s Baked Scallops

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Scallops are one of those dishes that can turn any dinner into a special event. A few years ago, I was lucky enough to get my hands on this baked scallop recipe from my dear neighbor, Betty. She first served them during a cozy spring gathering, and the moment I took a bite, I knew this recipe was something to cherish. The buttery, delicate flavor of the scallops, combined with a crunchy, golden topping, made it impossible to resist. If you’re looking for a dish that’s both simple and elegant, this recipe is perfect for impressing your guests or adding a little extra flavor to your weeknight dinner.

Baked scallops can easily be paired with a variety of sides to create a complete meal. I love serving them alongside a fresh garden salad, lightly dressed with a vinaigrette, for a refreshing contrast to the rich, buttery scallops. For a heartier option, serve them over a bed of linguine, and don’t forget a few slices of warm, crusty bread to mop up the remaining buttery juices!

Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • 1 pound sea scallops, rinsed and patted dry
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup bread crumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 lemon, cut into wedges for serving

Directions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a medium bowl, mix the melted butter with the minced garlic.
  3. In another bowl, combine the bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
  4. Dip each scallop into the butter mixture, then coat generously with the bread crumb mixture. Arrange the scallops in a baking dish.
  5. Sprinkle the remaining bread crumb mixture over the scallops.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the scallops are firm and opaque.
  7. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Variations & Tips

  • Add a bit of crushed red pepper to the bread crumb mix for an extra kick.
  • Swap parsley for fresh basil or dill for a different herb flavor.
  • For extra cheesy goodness, mix in some shredded Gruyère with the Parmesan.

Nutritional Insights & Dietary Considerations

Betty’s Baked Scallops are a great source of lean protein from the scallops, which are low in fat but high in nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids. The butter and Parmesan cheese provide a rich, creamy texture, making this a comforting dish. For those watching their calorie intake, you can reduce the butter or opt for a light version of the cheese. If you have dairy restrictions, consider substituting with a dairy-free butter and a non-dairy cheese alternative. This dish is gluten-friendly if you use gluten-free bread crumbs.

Sharing and Commenting is Caring

I’d love to hear what you think of these baked scallops! Your comments and feedback inspire me to keep sharing more delicious recipes. Don’t forget to share the love and drop a note below to let others know how your version turned out!