Garlic Butter Baked Scallops Recipe – The Ultimate Elegant Yet Effortless Seafood Delight

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops Recipe – The Ultimate Elegant Yet Effortless Seafood Delight 🧄🧈✨

If you’re looking for a dish that’s simple to make yet tastes restaurant-worthy, these Garlic Butter Baked Scallops will steal the show. Tender, juicy scallops are baked to perfection in a bath of rich, garlicky butter, topped with a crispy Parmesan breadcrumb crust that adds just the right amount of crunch. This dish delivers the perfect balance of buttery decadence and bright, zesty freshness, making it an irresistible choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike.

🦪 Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Baked Scallops Recipe

These oven-baked scallops are the ultimate proof that you don’t need complicated techniques to achieve gourmet results. The secret lies in the combination of fresh scallops, aromatic garlic, and creamy melted butter — all baked together until golden and fragrant. The result? A dish that’s delicately rich, perfectly tender, and bursting with flavor in every bite.

🧂 Ingredients (and Why They Matter)

1 lb large scallops, patted dry – The star of the dish. Drying them ensures they bake evenly and develop a perfect texture without steaming.
4 tbsp butter, melted – Creates a luxurious base that enhances the scallops’ natural sweetness while adding depth and richness.
3 cloves garlic, minced – The key flavor component, infusing every bite with a warm, savory aroma.
¼ cup breadcrumbs – Adds a crispy, golden topping that provides contrast to the tender scallops.
¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated – Melts into the breadcrumbs for a nutty, savory flavor boost.
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped – Brightens the dish and adds a pop of color and freshness.
1 tbsp lemon juice – Balances the butter’s richness with a hint of tangy acidity.
Salt and pepper, to taste – Simple but essential for seasoning and flavor balance.
Lemon wedges (for serving) – The final touch to squeeze over before serving for a burst of fresh citrus brightness.

🔥 Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). A high temperature ensures the scallops cook quickly, staying tender and juicy.
Prepare the Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. This aromatic mixture will coat the scallops and infuse them with incredible flavor.
Arrange the Scallops: Place the scallops in a single layer in a baking dish. Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over them, ensuring each scallop is well-coated.
Make the Topping: In another bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, and chopped parsley. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the scallops to create a golden, flavorful crust.
Bake to Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the scallops are opaque and tender, and the topping turns crispy golden brown. Avoid overbaking — scallops cook quickly and should remain slightly springy to the touch.
Serve and Enjoy: Remove from the oven and serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges. The citrusy brightness ties everything together beautifully.

💡 Pro Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

Dry the scallops well before baking — this helps them sear and bake evenly without becoming rubbery.
Use fresh, large scallops whenever possible for the best texture and flavor.
Do not overcook — even one extra minute can make scallops tough.
Add a pinch of paprika or chili flakes for a gentle kick of heat.
Upgrade the breadcrumbs — try using panko for an extra-crispy crust.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Creamy mashed potatoes or garlic butter rice for a comforting meal.
Light pasta tossed in olive oil and herbs for an Italian-inspired dinner.
Roasted vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or broccolini for a healthy, balanced plate.
A crisp glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc to complement the buttery seafood flavors.

✨ Final Thoughts

This Garlic Butter Baked Scallops recipe is proof that elegant dining doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a handful of ingredients and 20 minutes from start to finish, you can create a dish that feels indulgent yet effortless. The buttery garlic sauce, golden breadcrumb crust, and perfectly tender scallops make this a recipe you’ll return to again and again.

Whether you’re cooking for guests or treating yourself to something special, these scallops are a show-stopping centerpiece that’s guaranteed to impress — and once you taste them, you’ll understand why this recipe stands out among the best seafood dishes on the web.