Garlic Butter Baked Sea Scallops: A Quick and Elegant Seafood Dinner

Perfect Garlic Butter Baked Sea Scallops

Discover the elegant simplicity of perfectly baked scallops with this delicious recipe that brings restaurant-quality seafood right to your dinner table. These tender sea scallops are enhanced with a flavorful garlic butter sauce and topped with crispy breadcrumbs for the perfect texture contrast.

Why You’ll Love These Baked Scallops

There’s something magical about perfectly cooked scallops – that sweet, delicate flavor and tender texture. This baked method is:

• ✅ Foolproof – Even seafood novices can nail this recipe
• ✅ Quick – Ready in just 25 minutes from start to finish
• ✅ Impressive – Looks and tastes like a gourmet restaurant dish
• ✅ Versatile – Perfect for date nights or elegant dinner parties

Key Ingredients for Perfect Scallops

• 16 large sea scallops, rinsed and patted dry
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 1 medium shallot, finely diced
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
• Lemon wedges for serving

Notes on Selecting Scallops

For the best results, look for:

• Dry-packed scallops – They sear better than “wet” scallops that have been treated with phosphates
• Uniform size – Similar-sized scallops will cook evenly
• Fresh smell – Good scallops should smell sweet and oceanic, not fishy

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and lightly grease a shallow baking dish.
2. Thoroughly rinse the scallops under cold water, then pat them completely dry with paper towels. (Excess moisture prevents proper browning.)
3. In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, diced shallot, and lemon juice.
4. Place the scallops in the prepared baking dish, spacing them evenly apart.
5. Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over the scallops.
6. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
7. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the scallops, covering each one completely.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the scallops are opaque and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
9. For extra browning, broil for the final 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
10. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and extra pan sauce spooned over the top.

How to Know When Scallops Are Done

Perfectly cooked scallops should be:

• Opaque throughout (not translucent)
• Firm to the touch but still tender when cut
• Internal temperature of 125°F-130°F for ideal doneness

Important: Overcooking scallops will make them tough and rubbery, so keep a close eye on them!

Serving Suggestions for Baked Scallops

These elegant baked scallops pair beautifully with:

• Creamy risotto or garlic parmesan pasta
• Roasted asparagus or sautéed green beans
• Crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce
• A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio

Make It a Complete Meal

For a restaurant-quality dinner experience, try this menu:

• Starter: Simple mixed green salad with light vinaigrette
• Main: Garlic butter baked scallops with lemon linguine
• Side: Steamed broccolini with olive oil and sea salt
• Dessert: Lemon sorbet or panna cotta

Storage and Reheating Tips

While scallops are best enjoyed fresh, leftovers can be:

• Refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 days
• Reheated gently in a 300°F oven until just warmed through

Note: Avoid microwaving scallops as they can become tough and rubbery.

Nutrition Information

Common Questions About Baking Scallops

Can I use frozen scallops?

Yes, but thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight and pat them very dry before cooking.

How do I prevent rubbery scallops?

Avoid overcooking and ensure your scallops are thoroughly dried before baking.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can mix the garlic butter and breadcrumb mixture in advance, but for best results, assemble and bake just before serving.

What’s the difference between sea scallops and bay scallops?

Sea scallops are larger (about 1.5-2 inches in diameter) and are ideal for this recipe. Bay scallops are smaller and cook more quickly, so would require a time adjustment.

Why These Baked Scallops Are a Must-Try Seafood Recipe

With their delicate flavor and buttery texture, these baked sea scallops make an impressive yet surprisingly simple dinner option. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or elevating your weeknight menu, this foolproof recipe delivers restaurant-quality scallops with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Recipe adapted from Allrecipes