Absolutely! Here’s a full, detailed recipe for Garlic Butter Baked Scallops—restaurant-quality, simple, and bursting with flavor. 🧄🦪✨
Garlic Butter Baked Scallops – Full Recipe
Ingredients (Serves 2–4)
- 1 lb (450 g) sea scallops, cleaned and patted dry
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (or more for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon paprika (optional, for color and subtle flavor)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese for topping
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Lightly grease a baking dish or individual ramekins with butter or cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare Garlic Butter
- In a small bowl, mix together:
- Melted butter
- Minced garlic
- Lemon juice
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Paprika (if using)
Tip: Let the garlic sit in the butter for a few minutes to release maximum flavor.
Step 3: Arrange Scallops
- Place scallops in a single layer in the baking dish.
- Spoon the garlic butter mixture evenly over each scallop.
- Optional: Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top for a golden, savory crust.
Step 4: Bake
- Bake in the oven for 12–15 minutes, depending on scallop size.
- Check for doneness: scallops should be opaque and slightly firm.
- Avoid overcooking—scallops can turn rubbery if left too long.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the scallops.
- Serve immediately with:
- Lemon wedges
- Crusty bread, pasta, or rice
- Roasted or sautéed vegetables
Tips for Perfect Scallops
- Pat scallops dry before cooking; moisture prevents browning.
- Single layer only—don’t overcrowd the pan.
- For extra flavor, drizzle with a little extra melted butter after baking.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
- Use white wine instead of part of the butter for a lighter garlic wine sauce.
Optional Variations
- One-pan Garlic Butter Scallops with Veggies: Add asparagus, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini to the pan and roast together.
- Parmesan Crust: Mix breadcrumbs + Parmesan and sprinkle on top before baking for a crunchy finish.
- Herb Butter: Add thyme, rosemary, or dill to the garlic butter for extra aroma.
This recipe is quick, elegant, and flavorful—perfect for weeknights or special occasions.
I can also create a step-by-step visual guide or a one-pan dinner version if you want something even easier to make.
Do you want me to do that?
