Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are a luxurious yet surprisingly simple seafood dish that brings restaurant-quality flavor to your home kitchen. Each scallop is tender, juicy, and enveloped in a luscious garlic butter sauce that enhances its natural sweetness. The golden sear on top adds a delightful texture, while the aroma of roasted garlic and butter fills the kitchen with irresistible warmth. Whether you’re preparing a romantic dinner, hosting a dinner party, or simply treating yourself to something special, this dish is a showstopper that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor.
Ingredients:
- 12 large sea scallops (fresh or thawed if frozen)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing, optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Prep the Scallops
- Begin by rinsing the scallops under cold water to remove any grit or sand.
- Pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels—this step is crucial for achieving a good sear and preventing excess moisture in the baking dish.
- If the scallops have a small side muscle (a tough, rectangular piece), gently pull it off and discard.
2. Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). If you’re using a convection oven, reduce the temperature slightly to avoid overcooking.
3. Make the Garlic Butter
- In a small bowl, combine the melted butter and minced garlic. Add a splash of lemon juice if you like a hint of citrus brightness.
- Season the mixture with a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Optional: Sear for Extra Flavor
- For an added layer of flavor and texture, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the scallops for 1 minute per side until a golden crust forms. This step is optional but adds a beautiful caramelized surface.
5. Bake the Scallops
- Arrange the scallops in a single layer in a small baking dish or oven-safe skillet.
- Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over the scallops.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the scallops are opaque and slightly firm to the touch. Avoid overbaking, as scallops can become rubbery.
6. Garnish and Serve
- Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 2–3 minutes.
- Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for a fresh, vibrant finish.
- Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with a light pasta tossed in olive oil and herbs, or serve over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes.
- For a low-carb option, try with sautéed spinach or roasted asparagus.
- A glass of chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the richness of the dish beautifully.
Tips & Variations:
- Breadcrumb Topping: For a crunchy finish, sprinkle seasoned breadcrumbs over the scallops before baking.
- Add Heat: A pinch of red pepper flakes in the garlic butter adds a subtle kick.
- Herb Swap: Try fresh dill or chives instead of parsley for a different herbal note.
This Garlic Butter Baked Scallops recipe is a celebration of simplicity and elegance. With just a handful of ingredients and a few easy steps, you can create a dish that feels indulgent and tastes divine. Would you like a dessert pairing to go with it—maybe something citrusy or tropical to round out the meal?