Garlic Butter Baked Scallops: A Family Favorite

Introduction

When it comes to seafood dishes, baked scallops have always held a special place in my heart. Recently, I decided to whip up a batch of Garlic Butter Baked Scallops, and I must say, it was an absolute hit with my family. The moment the dish came out of the oven, the tantalizing aroma of garlic and butter filled the kitchen, drawing everyone in. As we gathered around the table, the scallops were met with rave reviews and empty plates. This recipe not only satisfied our taste buds but also sparked joy in the simple act of sharing a delicious meal together.

Ingredients

• 1 lb large scallops, patted dry
• 4 tbsp butter, melted
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the Garlic Butter:
   In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Assemble the Scallops:
   Place the scallops in a single layer in a baking dish. Pour the garlic butter mixture over the scallops, ensuring they are well-coated.
4. Add the Topping:
   In another small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the scallops.
5. Bake:
   Bake the scallops in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the scallops are opaque and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown.
6. Serve:
   Serve the baked scallops hot with lemon wedges on the side.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 22 minutes

How to Serve

• Plate the baked scallops on a decorative serving dish.
• Garnish with additional chopped parsley for a pop of color.
• Serve with lemon wedges on the side for drizzling.
• Pair with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables.
• Offer a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic butter.

Additional Tips

1. Choose Fresh Scallops:
   Opt for large, fresh scallops for the best flavor and texture.
2. Pat Dry:
   Make sure to pat the scallops dry before cooking; this ensures they sear nicely and absorb the garlic butter.
3. Adjust Seasoning:
   Feel free to adjust the salt and pepper to your liking; a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick!
4. Don’t Overbake:
   Keep an eye on the scallops to avoid overcooking; they should be opaque and tender.
5. Use Unsalted Butter:
   If you’re watching your sodium intake, use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the dish.

Recipe Variations

• Herbed Scallops:
  Experiment with different herbs like thyme or dill instead of parsley for varied flavor profiles.
• Cheesy Delight:
  Add a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the breadcrumbs for extra gooeyness.
• Citrus Twist:
  Mix in some orange or lime juice with the lemon juice for a citrusy twist.
• Bacon Crumbles:
  Sprinkle crispy bacon bits over the scallops before baking for a smoky flavor.
• Asian Flair:
  Add a splash of soy sauce and sesame oil to the garlic butter mixture for an Asian-inspired dish.

Serving Suggestions

• Wine Pairing:
  Serve with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay to complement the buttery flavors.
• Side Dishes:
  Consider pairing the scallops with:
• Garlic mashed potatoes
• Quinoa pilaf
• Roasted asparagus
• Salads:
  A light arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette would provide a refreshing contrast.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing:
  While it’s best to enjoy baked scallops fresh, you can freeze the scallops before baking. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and store for up to 2 months.
• Storage:
  If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven to avoid rubbery texture.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen scallops?
   Yes, just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before preparing.
2. What type of scallops should I buy?
   Look for U.S. caught sea scallops; they tend to be sweeter and fresher.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare everything ahead and bake just before serving.
4. How do I know when scallops are done?
   Scallops are done when they are opaque and firm to the touch.
5. What can I substitute for breadcrumbs?
   Crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs work well as substitutes.
6. Is this dish gluten-free?
   Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make it gluten-free.
7. Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
   Yes, but fresh garlic gives a better flavor. If using powder, reduce the quantity.
8. What should I do if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
   Grated Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast can be good alternatives.
9. How can I make this recipe spicier?
   Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the garlic butter mixture.
10. What’s the best way to reheat baked scallops?
    Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are not only easy to prepare but also provide an exquisite dining experience that your family and friends will adore. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a dish that feels gourmet. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy family dinner, this recipe is bound to impress. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to indulge in a delightful seafood feast!

Print