Name: Garlic Butter Baked Scallops: The Ultimate Seafood Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Seafood
Ingredients: 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, but recommended); 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat); Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; 1 pound fresh sea scallops, patted dry; Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; Lemon wedges, for serving; Breadcrumbs (panko or regular), for topping (optional)

Jump to Recipe

If you’re searching for a meal that combines elegance with ease, look no further than Garlic Butter Baked Scallops: The Ultimate Seafood Recipe. In one pan and just around 20 minutes, you’ll create a showstopping dish that’s overflowing with luscious garlic butter, a pop of fresh herbs, and sweet, tender scallops. Every bite feels fancy yet familiar—perfect for impressing dinner guests or simply treating yourself to a little luxury on a weeknight.

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops: The Ultimate Seafood Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of kitchen staples and a splash of white wine, you can build layers of flavor that turn simple scallops into a truly spectacular dish. Each ingredient plays a starring role, whether it’s adding richness, brightness, or that irresistible golden finish.

Fresh sea scallops (1 pound, patted dry): Sweet, succulent, and the star of the show—go for big, plump sea scallops for the best texture and flavor.
Unsalted butter (1/2 cup): Softened for easy mixing, this is the heart of your luscious sauce and adds the signature richness to Garlic Butter Baked Scallops: The Ultimate Seafood Recipe.
Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Freshly minced garlic packs a fragrant punch and infuses the butter with irresistible depth.
Fresh parsley (1/4 cup, chopped): Adds grassy brightness and a splash of color.
Lemon juice (2 tablespoons): Brings zesty freshness while balancing all the buttery, cheesy notes.
Dry white wine (1/4 cup, optional): Use for a sophisticated layer of flavor, but the dish shines without it as well.
Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup): Delivers a savory, umami boost and helps form a marvelous crust.
Red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For a gentle kick of heat that wakes up the palate.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for drawing out every flavor—don’t be shy, but taste as you go.
Lemon wedges, for serving: Squeeze over at the table for a bright finishing touch.
Breadcrumbs, for topping (optional): Panko or regular add a final bit of crunch and golden color.

How to Make Garlic Butter Baked Scallops: The Ultimate Seafood Recipe

Step 1: Mix the Garlic Butter

This first step is where all the magic begins! In a bowl, blend the softened butter with garlic, parsley, lemon juice, and (if you like) the white wine, Parmesan, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Mix until it’s smooth, fragrant, and flecked with herbs. Give it a quick taste to see if it needs a touch more salt or a squeeze more lemon. This luscious mixture is what takes Garlic Butter Baked Scallops: The Ultimate Seafood Recipe from simple to sensational.

Step 2: Prep the Scallops

It’s crucial to get your scallops as dry as possible so you get that perfect, succulent finish. Pat them dry with paper towels and, if they’re gigantic, slice them in half horizontally. Season both sides with salt and black pepper—it might seem basic, but it’s this step that lets all the delicate seafood flavor shine through when you bake.

Step 3: Assemble for Baking

Preheat your oven to a piping hot 400°F. Lightly grease your favorite baking dish, then arrange the scallops in a single layer—crowding them will steam, not bake, so give them some space! Dollop your garlicky butter mixture over each scallop and finish with a sprinkle of breadcrumbs if you love that golden, crunchy top.

Step 4: Bake and Broil to Perfection

Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, just until the scallops turn opaque and are cooked through. They really don’t take long; overcooking is the enemy here! If you want a super-crispy topping, slip the dish under the broiler for the last minute or two—just keep a close eye as things can brown fast.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Pull your bubbling, golden masterpiece from the oven and let it cool for a minute (try not to dive in right away!). Dust with more chopped parsley for color, set out plenty of lemon wedges, and serve immediately. This is when Garlic Butter Baked Scallops: The Ultimate Seafood Recipe truly shines—hot, tender, and outrageously delicious.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Baked Scallops: The Ultimate Seafood Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh chopped parsley adds a pop of green that makes the dish look restaurant-worthy. Bright lemon wedges invite guests to squeeze just the right amount of zest—don’t skip it, the citrus brings everything together. For a final flourish, a big pinch of flaky sea salt travels beautifully from oven to table.

Side Dishes

These scallops deserve sidekicks that soak up all that glorious garlic butter. Try crusty, fresh bread for mopping every drop, a silky mashed potato, or delicate angel hair pasta tossed with olive oil and herbs. Lightly sautéed greens like spinach or asparagus add contrast and color to your feast.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re feeling a little extra, serve your Garlic Butter Baked Scallops: The Ultimate Seafood Recipe in individual ramekins for an elegant starter. Or for family meals, bring the whole baking dish straight to the table for self-serve, rustic charm. For an appetizer spin, nestle each scallop in its own shell or small spoon for easy party bites.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (a big if!), transfer scallops and sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours. They’ll keep well for up to two days, but enjoy sooner rather than later for the best texture and taste.

Freezing

Scallops, like many seafood dishes, don’t love the freezer—the texture can become rubbery after thawing. For the best experience of Garlic Butter Baked Scallops: The Ultimate Seafood Recipe, enjoy them fresh and skip the freezer whenever possible.

Reheating

To warm up, place the scallops and a little of their sauce in a baking dish, cover gently with foil, and warm in a low oven (about 275°F) until just heated through. Microwave reheating is fast but risky, as scallops can toughen quickly; use gentle heat for best results.

FAQs

Can I use bay scallops instead of sea scallops?

Absolutely! Bay scallops are smaller and cook even faster, so cut the baking time in half—watch closely to avoid overcooking. The recipe will work beautifully either way.

What’s the best type of white wine for this recipe?

A dry variety like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or even a dry Chardonnay is perfect. The wine adds subtle flavor; just avoid anything too sweet. No need to break the bank—use something you’d enjoy drinking with the meal.

Do I have to use breadcrumbs on top?

Nope! Breadcrumbs add a lovely crunch, but you can totally skip them for a gluten-free version or a slightly lighter bite. The garlic butter mixture itself still forms a gorgeous, flavorful crust.

How can I tell when scallops are done baking?

Cooked scallops turn opaque and feel slightly springy to the touch. As soon as they look firm and milky white, they’re ready! Overcooked scallops become rubbery, so keep an eye on the oven near the 12-minute mark.

Can I prepare the garlic butter ahead of time?

Yes! Whip up the garlic butter mixture a day or two ahead and store it covered in the fridge. When ready to cook, let it soften slightly for easy spreading, then assemble and bake as directed.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about making Garlic Butter Baked Scallops: The Ultimate Seafood Recipe at home—they’re simple, lush, and bound to wow every time. Whether you’re a seafood pro or trying something new, don’t hesitate to give this recipe a go. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself reaching for this winner again and again!

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops: The Ultimate Seafood Recipe

★★★★★

5.3 from 18 reviews

Author: Sophie
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops is a delectable seafood dish featuring tender sea scallops baked to perfection in a flavorful garlic butter sauce. This recipe is a true seafood lover’s delight, combining the richness of butter with the freshness of lemon and parsley.

Instructions

Prepare Garlic Butter: In a medium bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and lemon juice. Add white wine (if using), Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix until well combined, smooth, and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Prepare Scallops: Pat the scallops dry with paper towels. If very large, cut them in half horizontally. Season with salt and pepper.
Assemble and Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish. Arrange scallops in a single layer in the dish. Spoon garlic butter evenly over the scallops. Sprinkle with breadcrumbs (if using).
Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until scallops are opaque and cooked through. Be careful not to overcook. If desired, broil for the last minute or two to brown the breadcrumbs, watching closely to prevent burning.
Serve: Remove from oven and let cool for a minute or two. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges. Serve immediately.

Notes

Ensure the scallops are thoroughly dried before seasoning to achieve a nice sear.
Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your spice preference.
Serve with crusty bread or over pasta for a complete meal.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Seafood