π§β¨ Garlic Butter Baked Scallops β Elegant, Simple & Melt-In-Your-Mouth Delicious!
If youβre craving a luxurious seafood dish that looks restaurant-quality but takes just minutes to prepare, these Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are pure perfection. Tender, juicy scallops baked in a rich garlic butter sauce with a hint of lemon and herbs β every bite is silky, savory, and incredibly satisfying.
Whether youβre planning a romantic dinner, entertaining guests, or treating yourself to something special, this dish delivers comfort, flavor, and elegance, all in one pan. The best part? Itβs fast, effortless, and made with simple everyday ingredients.
π Ingredients
- 1 lb sea scallops (cleaned and patted dry)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (fresh-squeezed)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional but recommended)
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1β2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Lemon wedges for serving
π©βπ³ How to Make Garlic Butter Baked Scallops
- Preheat oven to 400Β°F (200Β°C).
- Pat scallops dry β this helps them bake perfectly and absorb flavor.
- In a bowl, whisk together melted butter, garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Arrange scallops in a baking dish in a single layer.
- Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over the scallops.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top, if using.
- Bake 12β15 minutes, until scallops are opaque and tender.
- Broil for the last 1β2 minutes for a light golden top.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
π Tips for Perfect Scallops
β¨ Use large sea scallops β not small bay scallops
β¨ Dry scallops well for the best texture
β¨ Donβt overbake β they cook fast and should stay plump & tender
β¨ Add a splash of white wine for extra flavor
π½οΈ What to Serve With Scallops
Pair these buttery scallops with:
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Buttered pasta or risotto
- Steamed asparagus or sautΓ©ed spinach
- Crusty bread to soak up the garlic butter
- Rice pilaf or quinoa
This dish turns any night into a fine-dining experience at home β¨
πͺ Health Benefits
Scallops are a nutritious, lean protein source rich in:
β Omega-3s
β Vitamins B12 & D
β Magnesium & potassium
β Antioxidants & essential minerals
A decadent meal that also fuels your body β the best of both worlds! ππ
π€ Final Thoughts
Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are proof that sometimes the simplest recipes are the most luxurious. With buttery richness, delicate seafood flavor, and the fresh brightness of lemon and herbs, this dish is always a show-stopper.
Serve them as an elegant appetizer or a full dinner β either way, everyone will be asking for the recipe.
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