Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how quickly this recipe comes together. The scallops turn out juicy and tender, while the garlic butter sauce and crispy breadcrumb-Parmesan topping add bold flavor and just the right amount of crunch. It’s a fantastic choice for weeknight dinners, date nights, or entertaining guests. Best of all, everything bakes in one dish—no frying or complicated prep needed.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound sea scallops
4 tablespoons butter, melted
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons lemon juice
½ teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
¼ cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Lemon wedges, for serving

Directions

1. Preheat the oven
I preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray.

2. Prepare the scallops
I pat the scallops dry with paper towels to help them bake up tender and avoid excess moisture. Then I arrange them in a single layer in the greased baking dish.

3. Make the garlic butter
In a small bowl, I stir together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper until fully combined.

4. Coat the scallops
I pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over the scallops, making sure they’re well coated with all that flavor.

5. Add the topping
I sprinkle the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan evenly over the top. This gives the dish a lightly crisp, golden finish once baked.

6. Bake
I bake the scallops for 12–15 minutes, or until they’re just opaque and the topping is golden. I keep a close eye near the end so they don’t overcook.

7. Serve
I garnish the dish with chopped fresh parsley and serve it with lemon wedges on the side for an extra bright finish.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 12–15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

These baked scallops are ideal for quick dinners or when I need an elegant dish in under 30 minutes.

Variations

Spicy Version
I like to add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the garlic butter for a little heat.

Herb Swap
Fresh thyme, dill, or chives also work well in place of parsley. I sometimes mix them right into the breadcrumb topping.

Low-Carb Option
To keep things lighter, I skip the breadcrumbs and just use a sprinkle of Parmesan for flavor.

Gluten-Free Adaptation
I use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed pork rinds to get that same crispy topping without the gluten.

Add Wine
I add a splash of white wine to the butter mixture for a little extra depth of flavor—just a tablespoon is enough.

storage/reheating

Refrigerator Storage
Leftover scallops can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. I avoid keeping them longer, as seafood is best fresh.

Reheating Instructions
I reheat gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Microwaving can make scallops rubbery, so I try to avoid it.

Make-Ahead Tips
I prep everything in the baking dish (minus the breadcrumb topping) a few hours in advance and refrigerate it. Right before baking, I sprinkle on the topping and pop it in the oven.

FAQs

Can I use frozen scallops?

Yes, I thaw them completely and pat them dry before baking. Removing excess moisture is key for getting a good texture.

What kind of breadcrumbs should I use?

I usually go for plain or panko breadcrumbs. Panko adds extra crunch, which I love in this dish.

Can I double this recipe for a crowd?

Absolutely. I just use a larger baking dish or two smaller ones, and make sure not to overcrowd the scallops so they cook evenly.

How do I know when scallops are done?

They should turn opaque and slightly firm to the touch. Overcooking can make them rubbery, so I check around the 12-minute mark.

What can I serve with garlic butter scallops?

I usually pair them with a light salad, steamed vegetables, or a side of rice or pasta. Crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the extra garlic butter.

Conclusion

These Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are the kind of recipe I reach for when I want something special without the stress. With minimal prep and bold flavors, they bring a little luxury to the table in under 30 minutes. Whether I’m hosting or just treating myself, this dish never disappoints. It’s simple, satisfying, and always a crowd-pleaser.

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