Garlic Butter Baked Scallops
Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are an elegant yet effortless seafood dish that delivers restaurant-quality flavor at home. Tender scallops baked in a rich garlic butter sauce emerge juicy, aromatic, and beautifully caramelized. This recipe is ideal for special occasions, weeknight dinners, or whenever a refined seafood course is desired without complicated preparation.
Why Garlic Butter Baked Scallops Work So Well
Scallops have a naturally sweet, delicate flavor that pairs perfectly with butter and garlic. Baking preserves moisture while allowing the butter to infuse every bite. A brief time in the oven ensures the scallops remain tender—not rubbery—while the surface develops a light golden finish that enhances both texture and taste.
Ingredients
- 1½ pounds sea scallops, patted completely dry
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for a richer finish)
Use large sea scallops rather than bay scallops for best texture and presentation.
Preparation Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 400°F (205°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
2. Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and paprika until well combined.
3. Arrange the Scallops
Place the scallops in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. Ensure they are not overcrowded so they bake evenly.
4. Add the Sauce
Spoon the garlic butter mixture evenly over each scallop, ensuring full coverage.
5. Optional Parmesan Topping
Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese lightly over the scallops if a slightly crisp, savory topping is desired.
6. Bake
Bake uncovered for 12–15 minutes, depending on scallop size. The scallops should be opaque and tender when done.
7. Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve immediately while hot and glossy.
Texture and Flavor Profile
Properly baked scallops are buttery-soft and succulent, never chewy. The garlic butter melts into the scallops, while lemon juice adds brightness that balances the richness. If Parmesan is used, it forms a delicate crust that enhances depth without overpowering the seafood.
Serving Suggestions
Garlic Butter Baked Scallops pair beautifully with:
- Steamed asparagus or green beans
- Creamy mashed potatoes or risotto
- Buttered pasta or angel hair noodles
- Crusty bread to soak up the sauce
For a lighter meal, serve with a crisp green salad and lemon vinaigrette.
Tips for Perfect Baked Scallops
- Dry scallops thoroughly before baking to ensure proper browning
- Avoid overbaking, as scallops cook quickly
- Use fresh garlic for the most aromatic flavor
- Bake in a single layer to prevent steaming
Make-Ahead and Storage Notes
This dish is best served fresh, but preparation can be streamlined:
- Garlic butter sauce may be prepared up to 24 hours in advance
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days
- Reheat gently in a low-temperature oven to avoid overcooking
Why This Recipe Is a Standout
Garlic Butter Baked Scallops deliver luxury without complexity. With minimal ingredients and quick preparation, this dish consistently impresses guests while remaining approachable for home cooks. The balance of richness, freshness, and delicate seafood flavor makes it a timeless favorite.