How to Make Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

Discover the secret to tender, flavorful Garlic Butter Baked Scallops with this easy recipe perfect for a quick, elegant meal. This dish combines succulent scallops with rich garlic butter that enhances every bite, offering a melt-in-your-mouth experience that feels both luxurious and simple. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or impressing guests, these Garlic Butter Baked Scallops deliver restaurant-quality taste from the comfort of your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Ready in under 20 minutes, perfect for busy nights or last-minute dinner plans.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples that come together for bold, fresh flavors without fuss.
• Deliciously Rich: Garlic butter adds a luscious, savory layer that elevates the natural sweetness of scallops.
• Elegant Presentation: Looks beautiful on the plate, making it ideal for special occasions or casual dinners.
• Healthy and Light: High in protein and low in carbs, great for balanced and nutritious meals.

Ingredients You’ll Need

All the magic in this Garlic Butter Baked Scallops recipe starts with a handful of simple, fresh ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in creating a tender texture, bright flavor, or gorgeous presentation that keeps every bite exciting.

• Fresh Scallops: Choose dry-packed scallops for best texture and flavor, avoiding any added preservatives.
• Garlic Cloves: Freshly minced for that punch of aromatic, savory goodness that defines the dish.
• Unsalted Butter: Melts into a creamy base that brings all ingredients together without overpowering the scallops.
• Fresh Parsley: Adds a pop of color and fresh herbaceous contrast to the rich butter sauce.
• Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon brightens the dish with acidity and balances the richness.
• Salt and Pepper: To season just right and bring out the natural sweetness of the scallops.

Variations for Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

This recipe is wonderfully versatile and can be adapted easily to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Whether you want to add a little spice, change up the herbs, or create a whole new flavor profile, these variations keep things exciting.

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a subtle heat boost.
• Herb Swap: Substitute parsley with fresh thyme or dill for different but equally fresh flavor notes.
• Cheesy Crust: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or Pecorino on top before baking for a golden, cheesy finish.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use olive oil or vegan butter instead of traditional butter to keep it dairy-free and delicious.
• Citrus Twist: Add a few drops of orange or lime juice for a unique citrus flair that complements the scallops beautifully.

How to Make Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

Step 1: Prepare and Preheat

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and patting the scallops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step helps get a better sear and prevents steaming in the oven.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

Melt the butter gently in a small saucepan or microwave, then stir in the minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Allow the garlic to infuse the butter but avoid burning it to keep the flavor mellow and fragrant.

Step 3: Arrange the Scallops

Place the scallops in a single layer in an oven-safe baking dish. Pour the garlic butter evenly over them to ensure each scallop is coated with that luscious sauce.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake the scallops in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are opaque and slightly firm to the touch but still tender and juicy inside. Avoid overcooking, which can make them rubbery.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle fresh parsley on top right after baking for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately while warm for the best taste and texture.

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

• Choose the Right Scallops: Use “dry” scallops without added preservatives for the purest flavor and best texture.
• Dry Thoroughly: Pat scallops completely dry before cooking to ensure they sear properly and don’t steam in the butter.
• Don’t Overcook: Remove from the oven as soon as scallops turn opaque to keep them tender and moist.
• Balance Flavors: The lemon juice is key to cutting through the richness, so don’t skip it.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh minced garlic beats garlic powder for authentic flavor and aroma in this recipe.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

Garnishes

Freshly chopped parsley or chives not only add a vibrant green pop but also freshen each bite, perfectly balancing the butter’s richness.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes, buttery asparagus, or a crisp green salad to create a well-rounded, elegant meal that highlights the scallops’ delicate flavor.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning display, plate scallops in their shells or on a bed of lightly toasted baguette slices. Drizzle extra garlic butter sauce over the top just before serving for an indulgent touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Garlic Butter Baked Scallops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to preserve freshness and flavor.

Freezing

While best eaten fresh, scallops can be frozen after cooking. Place them in a freezer-safe container and use within 1 month for optimal taste and texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a low oven (about 300°F/150°C) or in a microwave at medium power to avoid toughening the scallops. Adding a drizzle of butter or a splash of lemon juice helps keep them moist.

FAQs

Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?

Yes, but be sure to thaw them fully and pat dry to avoid excess moisture that can interfere with cooking and texture.

How do I know when scallops are done?

Scallops are cooked when they turn opaque and are slightly firm to the touch but still tender on the inside, usually after 10-12 minutes of baking.

Can I prepare this recipe without an oven?

Absolutely! You can cook the scallops in a skillet on the stovetop using the same garlic butter sauce for a quick and equally delicious alternative.

What side dishes pair best with Garlic Butter Baked Scallops?

Light, fresh sides like steamed vegetables, salads, or creamy mashed potatoes complement these scallops perfectly without overpowering their delicate flavor.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the Garlic Butter Baked Scallops recipe contains no gluten ingredients, making it suitable for gluten-free diets.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are truly a gem in any kitchen — simple enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for entertaining. Once you try this recipe, you’ll see why it’s a personal favorite for delivering comfort, elegance, and incredible flavor all at once. Don’t wait to dive into this delicious, buttery, garlicky seafood delight!

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