Garlic Butter Baked Scallops: An Elegant Seafood Dish Made Simple

Introduction

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are proof that elegant seafood dishes do not have to be complicated. This recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor using simple ingredients and minimal preparation. Tender scallops are baked gently in a rich garlic butter sauce that enhances their natural sweetness without overpowering it. The aroma alone makes this dish feel special, whether you are serving it as an appetizer or a main course. I often turn to this recipe when I want something impressive but stress-free, especially for dinner guests or special occasions. The scallops cook quickly, stay juicy, and pair beautifully with crusty bread, pasta, or fresh vegetables. Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are versatile enough for weeknight cooking yet refined enough for entertaining. If you are looking for a seafood recipe that feels luxurious while remaining approachable, this dish is a perfect choice.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is fast, flavorful, and foolproof. It highlights the natural taste of scallops while adding richness through garlic and butter. It requires minimal prep, cooks quickly, and delivers a polished result every time.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Sea scallops
Sea scallops are meaty, tender, and ideal for baking. They hold their shape well and develop a delicate sweetness when cooked properly.

Unsalted butter
Butter creates the base of the sauce, adding richness and helping carry the garlic flavor throughout the dish.

Garlic
Fresh garlic adds bold aroma and savory depth that complements the mild scallops perfectly.

Olive oil
A small amount of olive oil helps prevent the butter from burning and adds subtle fruitiness.

Lemon juice
Lemon juice brightens the dish and balances the richness of the butter with gentle acidity.

Breadcrumbs
Breadcrumbs add light texture on top, creating a subtle contrast to the tender scallops.

Parmesan cheese
Parmesan adds a savory, salty finish and enhances the golden topping when baked.

Salt
Salt enhances the natural sweetness of the scallops and balances the butter.

Black pepper
Black pepper adds gentle warmth without overpowering the seafood.

Fresh parsley
Parsley adds freshness and color, finishing the dish with a clean herbal note.

Directions

Begin by preheating the oven to a moderate temperature suitable for seafood. Pat the scallops dry with paper towels to ensure even baking and proper texture. Arrange them in a single layer in a lightly greased baking dish.

In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter gently. Stir in the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Spoon the garlic butter mixture evenly over the scallops, making sure each one is coated.

In a separate bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture lightly over the scallops. Bake uncovered until the scallops are opaque and tender, and the topping is lightly golden. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Equipment needed

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.

 3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results

Servings and timing

This recipe serves four people as a main dish or six as an appetizer. Preparation takes about ten minutes, and baking time is approximately twelve to fifteen minutes. Total time is under thirty minutes.

Storage/reheating

Scallops are best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently in the oven at a low temperature to avoid overcooking.

Variations and Customizations

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops can be adapted easily to suit different tastes. For extra richness, add a splash of cream to the butter mixture before baking. If you prefer a lighter version, reduce the amount of butter and increase the lemon juice for brightness.

You can customize the topping by using panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch or omitting breadcrumbs altogether for a gluten-free option. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes introduces gentle heat, while fresh herbs like thyme or basil can change the flavor profile subtly.

This dish also pairs well with additional ingredients such as shrimp or chunks of white fish baked alongside the scallops. Serve over pasta, risotto, or with roasted vegetables to create a complete meal.

Nutrition and Dietary Info

Scallops are high in protein and low in fat, making this dish naturally nutritious. While the butter adds richness, portions can be adjusted to suit lighter diets. The recipe is naturally low in carbohydrates and can be adapted for gluten-free eating.

Expert Tips & Customizations

Avoid overcooking
Scallops cook quickly and should be removed as soon as they turn opaque.

Dry scallops thoroughly
Removing excess moisture ensures better texture and prevents steaming.

Even sizing
Use similarly sized scallops so they cook evenly.

FAQs

Can I use frozen scallops?

Yes, thaw them completely and pat dry before baking.

How do I know when scallops are done?

They should be opaque and tender, not translucent.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It is best baked just before serving for optimal texture.

What can I serve with baked scallops?

They pair well with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.

Can I skip the breadcrumbs?

Yes, the dish is still delicious without them.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be made gluten-free by omitting or substituting the breadcrumbs.

Can I add wine to the sauce?

Yes, a small splash of white wine adds depth.

Do scallops need to be rinsed?

Rinse briefly if needed, then dry thoroughly.

Can I use bay scallops?

Yes, but reduce the baking time.

Is this dish suitable for entertaining?

Yes, it is elegant, quick, and impressive.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops offer a perfect balance of simplicity and sophistication. With tender seafood, rich garlic butter, and a lightly crisp topping, this recipe delivers refined flavor with minimal effort. Whether served for a special occasion or a quick weeknight meal, it is a dish that consistently impresses while remaining easy to prepare.

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