If you’re looking for a dish that combines simplicity, elegance, and a burst of flavor, this Garlic Butter Baked Scallops Recipe is an absolute game changer. Tender, juicy scallops basked in a luxurious garlic butter sauce, kissed by fresh lemon and parsley, come together effortlessly to create a dish that feels fancy yet is incredibly easy to whip up. Whether it’s a weeknight treat or a centerpiece for your next special occasion, these scallops bring warmth, richness, and a touch of seaside magic straight to your plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Garlic Butter Baked Scallops Recipe plays an essential role in balancing the seafood’s natural sweetness with bright, buttery notes and fresh herbal accents. The simplicity of these ingredients makes it easy to focus on flavor without fuss.
- 1 pound fresh scallops: The star of the show, fresh scallops should be dry and firm for the best texture after baking.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter: Provides a rich, creamy base that carries the garlic and lemon beautifully without overpowering the scallops.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a fragrant, savory punch that complements the buttery sauce perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: Introduces a bright acidity that cuts through the richness and lifts every bite.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Delivers a pop of fresh herbal color and flavor, bringing balance and a touch of vibrancy.
How to Make Garlic Butter Baked Scallops Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it reaches the perfect temperature while you get the scallops ready. Lightly spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to ensure the scallops won’t stick, making clean-up a breeze and keeping every scallop intact when serving.
Step 2: Create the Garlic Butter Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter slowly, letting it become silky and smooth. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté just until fragrant—don’t let the garlic brown, as you want it mellow and aromatic, infusing the butter with deep flavor that will soak right into those scallops.
Step 3: Add the Lemon Juice
Remove the pan from heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice carefully. This bright burst of citrus elevates the garlic butter to a whole new level, offering the perfect balance against the indulgent butter and tender scallops.
Step 4: Arrange the Scallops and Pour Sauce
Place the fresh scallops in a single layer in your prepared baking dish. Pour the luscious garlic butter mixture evenly over the scallops, ensuring each one gets a generous coating. This step is crucial, as it envelops the scallops in flavor during baking, helping lock in moisture and richness.
Step 5: Sprinkle with Parsley and Bake
Top the scallops with chopped fresh parsley to add a layer of freshness and a delightful green contrast. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the scallops turn opaque and develop a delicate golden tint around the edges, signaling that perfect tender texture without overcooking.
Step 6: Serve Hot with Remaining Butter Drizzle
Once out of the oven, serve the scallops hot, spooning any remaining garlic butter from the baking dish over the top. This final touch not only enhances the presentation but ensures every mouthful is as flavorful and moist as the first.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Baked Scallops Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra fresh parsley or a few thin lemon wedges on the side instantly brightens up the dish visually and adds a refreshing zing. For an extra touch of elegance, a handful of microgreens or a dash of red pepper flakes for subtle heat can amp up the appeal.
Side Dishes
These Garlic Butter Baked Scallops Recipe pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Creamy mashed potatoes or garlic-infused risotto provide comforting textures that complement the scallops’ tenderness. For a lighter option, serve alongside steamed asparagus or a crisp mixed greens salad dressed in a lemon vinaigrette to echo the dish’s citrus notes.
Creative Ways to Present
For a wow-factor presentation, try serving the scallops in their shells or place them atop toasted slices of crusty baguette for an elegant appetizer. You can also nestle them on beds of vibrant herb-infused quinoa or cauliflower rice for a modern twist that makes the Garlic Butter Baked Scallops Recipe irresistible at any table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to two days. The delicate scallops keep best when stored chilled and eaten soon to maintain their tender texture and fresh flavors.
Freezing
While it’s best to enjoy this dish fresh, you can freeze cooked scallops in their garlic butter sauce. Make sure they’re cooled completely, then seal tightly in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to one month, though texture may soften slightly after thawing.
Reheating
To reheat without losing goodness, gently warm leftovers in a low oven or on the stovetop over low heat. Avoid microwaving, which can make scallops rubbery. Reheat just until warmed through to preserve their buttery, juicy perfection.
FAQs
Can I use frozen scallops for this Garlic Butter Baked Scallops Recipe?
Absolutely, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture that can affect texture and the baking process.
Is there a substitute for unsalted butter?
You can use salted butter, but reduce or omit any extra salt added to the dish. For a dairy-free version, try a rich olive oil, though the flavor will differ somewhat.
Can I add other seasonings to the garlic butter?
Yes! A pinch of paprika, cayenne, or even a sprinkle of grated Parmesan can add exciting layers of flavor while keeping the essence of this Garlic Butter Baked Scallops Recipe intact.
How do I know when scallops are done?
Scallops are cooked perfectly when they turn opaque and firm to the touch but still yield slightly. Overcooking can cause them to turn tough, so keep a close eye during baking.
Can this recipe be doubled for a larger crowd?
Definitely. Just use a larger baking dish or divide the scallops among two dishes to ensure even cooking and maintain that buttery, flavorful sauce distribution.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the ease and elegance of this Garlic Butter Baked Scallops Recipe. It’s a dish that makes you feel like a gourmet chef without demanding hours in the kitchen. I hope you’ll give it a try soon and discover just how simple it is to create something so irresistibly delicious—your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Garlic Butter Baked Scallops Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A simple yet elegant recipe for Garlic Butter Baked Scallops, featuring tender scallops bathed in a fragrant garlic lemon butter sauce and baked to a golden perfection. Perfect for a quick gourmet meal that serves four.
Ingredients
Seafood
- 1 pound fresh scallops
Garlic Butter Sauce
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Garlic Butter: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté it until fragrant, about 1 minute, taking care not to burn the garlic.
- Add Lemon Juice: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice to infuse a bright, tangy flavor into the butter sauce.
- Arrange Scallops: Place the fresh scallops evenly in the prepared baking dish, ensuring they are spaced out for even cooking.
- Pour Garlic Butter: Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over the scallops, coating each piece thoroughly for maximum flavor.
- Add Parsley and Bake: Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the scallops for a burst of herbal freshness and bake them for 15 to 20 minutes until the scallops are opaque and lightly golden.
- Serve: Remove the scallops from the oven and serve immediately, drizzling with any remaining garlic butter from the baking dish for added richness.
Notes
- Use fresh scallops for the best texture and flavor.
- Do not overcook scallops as they can become tough and rubbery; bake until just opaque.
- Feel free to add a pinch of black pepper or red pepper flakes for a subtle hint of spice.
- Serve with crusty bread or a light salad to complement the rich garlic butter sauce.
