Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

 

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops: Simple, Elegant, and Full of Flavor

Seafood lovers, rejoice! These Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are a quick, elegant dish that brings restaurant-quality flavor to your home kitchen. Juicy, tender scallops baked in a rich garlic butter sauce create a luxurious combination that’s both comforting and impressive. Perfect for date nights, dinner parties, or any time you want a touch of gourmet without spending hours in the kitchen.

With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, this recipe transforms scallops into a buttery, garlicky delight that’s impossible to resist. Serve them with a side of rice, pasta, or a crisp salad for a complete meal that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to make.

---

Why You’ll Love These Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes.

• Elegant & Impressive: Perfect for entertaining or special occasions.

• Tender & Juicy: Baking preserves the natural sweetness and delicate texture of scallops.

• Rich Flavor: Garlic butter enhances the scallops without overpowering them.

---

Ingredients

• 1 pound sea scallops, cleaned and patted dry

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Optional: paprika or Parmesan for extra flavor

---

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a baking dish or line with parchment paper.

2. Prepare Garlic Butter:
   In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, and lemon juice.

3. Arrange Scallops:
   Place scallops in the baking dish in a single layer. Season with salt and pepper.

4. Pour Garlic Butter:
   Drizzle the garlic butter mixture over the scallops, ensuring each scallop is coated.

5. Bake:
   Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until scallops are opaque and slightly golden on top. Avoid overcooking to keep them tender.

6. Garnish and Serve:
   Sprinkle with fresh parsley and optional paprika or Parmesan. Serve immediately.

---

Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Scallops

• Pat scallops dry: This ensures they sear and bake beautifully without releasing too much water.

• Don’t overbake: Scallops cook quickly and become rubbery if overcooked.

• Add a squeeze of fresh lemon: Brightens the flavor and balances the richness of the butter.

• Pairing suggestions: Serve with garlic mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp white wine for a complete dining experience.

---

Elegant Yet Easy

These Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are proof that gourmet doesn’t have to be complicated. Juicy, tender, and bursting with buttery garlic flavor, they’re an effortless way to elevate any meal. Perfect for impressing guests, treating yourself, or creating a memorable weeknight dinner — every bite feels indulgent and satisfying.