Description
Simple, elegant, and incredibly flavorful, Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are the perfect dish for seafood lovers. Tender sea scallops are baked in a luscious garlic herb butter sauce until perfectly golden and juicy. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, this restaurant-quality recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, romantic evenings, or dinner parties.
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Ingredients
For the Scallops:
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1 lb large sea scallops (patted dry)
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2 tbsp olive oil
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Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
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½ cup unsalted butter, melted
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
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1 tsp lemon zest
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¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
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2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
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1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
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3 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
Optional Garnishes:
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Extra chopped parsley
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Lemon wedges
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A light dusting of paprika for color
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Lightly grease a shallow baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray.
Step 2: Prep the Scallops
Pat the scallops dry thoroughly with paper towels—this helps them brown better and stay juicy.
Season lightly with salt and black pepper.
Arrange them in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In a bowl, combine the melted butter, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, red pepper flakes (if using), parsley, oregano, and Parmesan cheese.
Whisk until fully mixed.
Step 4: Add Sauce to Scallops
Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over the scallops, making sure each one is coated.
Use a spoon or basting brush to distribute the mixture if needed.
Step 5: Bake the Scallops
Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until scallops are opaque and just firm to the touch.
For a golden finish, broil for an additional 1–2 minutes—but watch closely to avoid overcooking.
Step 6: Serve Immediately
Remove from the oven and sprinkle with extra parsley or a little paprika for color.
Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.
Notes
Dry Thoroughly – Patting scallops dry helps them sear and prevents them from steaming.
Don’t Overcook – Scallops should be just cooked through and still tender.
Use Real Butter – For the richest flavor, avoid margarine or butter substitutes.
Choose Sea Scallops – Larger scallops work best for baking and stay juicier.
Add Breadcrumbs – For a crispy top, sprinkle with seasoned breadcrumbs before baking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Cuisine: American