Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

 

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops: Elegant, Easy, and Absolutely Irresistible

If you're looking for a dish that's equally impressive and effortless, Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are the answer. With their tender, delicate texture and rich, buttery flavor, scallops are a seafood lover’s dream—and when baked with garlic, herbs, and just the right amount of golden crispness, they become a dish that’s worthy of a special occasion yet easy enough for a weeknight.

This recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal ingredients and effort. It’s light, savory, and incredibly satisfying—perfect as an appetizer or main course with your favorite sides.

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🦐 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to make – ready in under 30 minutes

• Elegant enough for dinner parties, but easy enough for a busy weeknight

• Naturally low-carb, high-protein, and gluten-free (with simple swaps if needed)

• Packed with rich, garlicky, buttery flavor that enhances—not overpowers—the scallops

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🛒 Ingredients

• 1 pound sea scallops (fresh or well-thawed if frozen)

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1/4 teaspoon paprika (for a hint of color and flavor)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional but recommended)

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

• Lemon wedges, for serving

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👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prep the Scallops

• If using frozen scallops, thaw them completely and pat dry with paper towels—moisture is the enemy of browning.

• Remove the tough side muscle if it’s still attached.

2. Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish just large enough to hold the scallops in a single layer.

3. Make the Garlic Butter

• In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.

4. Assemble and Bake

• Arrange the scallops in the baking dish. Pour the garlic butter mixture over the scallops.

• Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if using.

• Bake uncovered for 12–15 minutes, or until scallops are opaque and slightly firm to the touch.

• Optional: Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for a golden top.

5. Garnish and Serve

• Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot with lemon wedges.

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🍽️ What to Serve with Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

• Pasta (like angel hair or linguine tossed in olive oil and lemon)

• Garlic mashed potatoes or creamy risotto

• Roasted or steamed vegetables

• Crusty bread to soak up the sauce

• A chilled glass of white wine—Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs perfectly

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🔁 Tips and Variations

• Don’t overcook the scallops—they cook quickly and can turn rubbery if left in the oven too long.

• Use shrimp as a substitute if scallops aren’t available.

• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

• Make it keto-friendly by omitting the Parmesan or using a low-carb cheese.

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🧊 Storage & Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 300°F until just warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can overcook the scallops.

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📝 Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops prove that you don’t need complicated ingredients or techniques to create something special. With their tender texture, bold yet balanced flavor, and quick cook time, they’re a versatile dish you'll want to make again and again—whether it’s a cozy dinner for two or a celebration-worthy starter.

So grab a baking dish, some fresh scallops, and let your oven do the work—elegance has never been this easy.