Garlic butter baked scallops are one of those recipes that deliver big flavor with minimal effort. Sweet, tender scallops are paired with a fragrant garlic butter sauce, topped with a golden, cheesy breadcrumb crust, and baked to perfection. This dish feels fancy enough for a romantic dinner but is simple enough for a weeknight meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick to prepare: Just 10 minutes of prep time.
Elegant yet simple: A gourmet restaurant vibe without complicated steps.
Rich flavor profile: The combination of butter, garlic, Parmesan, and lemon elevates the scallops’ natural sweetness.
Ingredients and Their Roles
- 1 lb large scallops (patted dry)
The star of the dish. Large sea scallops have a delicate texture and a naturally sweet flavor. Patting them dry ensures they bake evenly and develop a better crust.
- 4 tbsp butter (melted)
Adds richness and keeps the scallops moist. Butter also carries the garlic flavor beautifully.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
Provides a fragrant, savory backbone to the dish. Fresh garlic is best for maximum flavor.
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
Creates a crispy, golden topping. You can use panko for extra crunch.
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
Brings a salty, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with seafood.
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
Adds freshness and color contrast to the richness of the dish.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Balances the richness of the butter and cheese, brightening the overall flavor.
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
A final squeeze of fresh lemon right before serving brings the dish to life.
Step-by-Step Preparation
- Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven ensures the scallops cook quickly and remain tender.
- Make the Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. This creates the flavorful base that will coat the scallops.
- Arrange the Scallops
Place scallops in a single layer in a baking dish — avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking.
- Coat with Garlic Butter
Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over the scallops, making sure each one is well-coated.
- Prepare the Topping
In another bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the scallops.
- Bake
Place the dish in the oven for 10–12 minutes. The scallops should turn opaque and the breadcrumb topping should be golden brown.
- Serve
Serve hot, garnished with fresh lemon wedges for that zesty kick.
Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Baked Scallops
Dry them well: Moisture is the enemy of browning. Pat scallops thoroughly with paper towels before seasoning.
Don’t overcook: Scallops can go from tender to rubbery in seconds. Keep an eye on them during baking.
Upgrade the topping: For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs mixed with a touch of olive oil.
Use fresh scallops if possible: Frozen scallops can work, but thaw them overnight in the fridge and dry well before cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Garlic butter baked scallops pair beautifully with:
Creamy risotto
Garlic butter pasta
Steamed asparagus or green beans
Crusty bread to soak up the sauce
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use frozen scallops?
Yes, but thaw them completely in the refrigerator, then pat dry to remove excess moisture before cooking.
Q2: Can I substitute the breadcrumbs?
You can use almond flour for a low-carb version, or crushed crackers for a richer topping.
Q3: How do I know scallops are done?
They should be opaque, slightly springy to the touch, and not translucent in the center.
Q4: Can I make this ahead?
You can prepare the topping and garlic butter mixture in advance, but assemble and bake just before serving for best results.
Q5: How can I make it spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a gentle heat.
Final Thoughts
Garlic butter baked scallops are proof that a few quality ingredients and a simple cooking method can yield a restaurant-worthy meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or treating yourself, this dish is sure to impress without stressing you out in the kitchen.