Butter and Garlic Baked Scallops Recipe

Introduction

Butter and garlic baked scallops are an elegant yet simple dish that highlights the delicate flavor of fresh scallops. With a buttery, garlicky sauce and a hint of lemon, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients

• 12 medium scallops (clean and dry)
• 2 tbsp salted butter
• The juice of half a lemon
• Salt (to taste)
• Pepper (to taste)
• Garlic powder (to taste)
• Sweet paprika (to taste)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Step 2: Lay the clean scallops evenly in an oven-safe casserole dish.
3. Step 3: Squeeze the lemon juice evenly over the scallops.
4. Step 4: Season the scallops to your preference with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and sweet paprika.
5. Step 5: Add the butter in small chunks evenly distributed around the scallops.
6. Step 6: Bake for 9 minutes, then carefully flip each scallop.
7. Step 7: Season the scallops again lightly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
8. Step 8: Return the scallops to the oven and bake for another 9 minutes.
9. Step 9: Serve immediately, ideally with crusty bread to soak up the buttery sauce.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives before serving.
• Use unsalted butter and adjust seasoning if you prefer more control over saltiness.
• Try substituting lemon juice with a splash of white wine for a subtle twist.
• Make sure scallops are patted dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture and to ensure better browning.

Storage

Store any leftover scallops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a warm oven or on the stovetop to avoid overcooking and toughening the scallops. It’s best enjoyed fresh but can be warmed carefully if needed.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?

Yes, frozen scallops can be used, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture and uneven cooking.

How do I know when scallops are done?

Scallops are cooked when they are opaque in the center and firm to the touch. Baking time can vary slightly depending on size, but in this recipe, about 18 minutes total ensures a tender, fully cooked result.

Butter and Garlic Baked Scallops Recipe

---

★★★★★

4.8 from 131 reviews

• Author: Harry
• Total Time: 28 minutes
• Yield: Serves 2

Pin Recipe

Print Recipe

Description

Deliciously tender, buttery, and garlicky baked scallops perfect for an elegant appetizer or main course. This recipe combines fresh scallops with a rich lemon-garlic butter sauce, baked to golden perfection and served with crusty bread.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Scallops

• 12 medium scallops (clean and dry)

Seasonings and Sauce

• 2 tbsp salted butter
• Juice of half a lemon
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste
• Garlic powder, to taste
• Sweet paprika, to taste

---

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it’s hot enough to cook the scallops evenly and create a lovely baked texture.
2. Arrange Scallops: Lay the clean and dry scallops evenly in an oven-safe casserole dish, making sure they are spaced out for uniform cooking.
3. Add Lemon Juice: Squeeze the juice of half a lemon evenly over the scallops to add fresh citrus flavor that will brighten the dish.
4. Season: Season the scallops to taste with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and sweet paprika, ensuring each scallop is evenly coated for balanced flavor.
5. Add Butter: Distribute the 2 tablespoons of salted butter in small chunks evenly around the scallops, which will melt and infuse the dish with richness as it bakes.
6. Bake First Side: Place the dish in the oven and bake the scallops for 9 minutes, allowing them to cook through and begin to take on a golden color.
7. Flip Scallops: Carefully flip each scallop to the other side to ensure even cooking on both sides.
8. Season Again: Re-season the flipped scallops with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to reinforce the flavors.
9. Bake Second Side: Return the scallops to the oven and bake for another 9 minutes until the scallops are opaque and tender.
10. Serve: Serve immediately, ideally with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful butter sauce.

Notes

• Ensure scallops are patted dry before cooking to avoid excess water diluting the flavors.
• Use fresh lemon juice for the best taste.
• Adjust seasonings according to personal taste preferences.
• Serve with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.
• Do not overcook scallops as they can become rubbery.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 18 minutes
• Category: Seafood
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: baked scallops, garlic scallops, butter scallops, lemon scallops, easy seafood recipe, baked seafood