Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

If you love scallops, then this Garlic Butter Baked Scallops recipe is about to become your new go-to! Picture this: tender, juicy scallops perfectly baked in a rich, garlicky butter sauce that’s just impossibly good. The flavors are luxurious without being overwhelming, and the best part? It’s a breeze to make! Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or treating yourself to a little indulgence, this dish will make you feel like a pro in the kitchen. Trust me, you’re going to love this one—easy, flavorful, and so impressive!

Why You’ll Love Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

This recipe isn’t just about the scallops; it’s about the experience. Imagine coming home to the smell of garlic and butter filling your kitchen, and then tasting that perfect balance of rich flavors. Here’s why you’ll adore this dish:

• Versatile: Perfect for weeknight dinners or for impressing guests at a dinner party. The best part? It pairs effortlessly with so many sides.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes. No need to spend hours in the kitchen to enjoy a gourmet meal.
• Budget-Friendly: Scallops can seem fancy, but this recipe keeps things simple and accessible.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the seasoning to your taste. Want more heat? Add red pepper flakes. Prefer something milder? Tone down the garlic.
• Impressive: A dish like this makes you look like you’ve spent all day preparing a masterpiece when in reality, you’ve just spent 20 minutes in the kitchen. It’s a win!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this easy, yet impressive, dish:

• Scallops: The star of the dish! They’re tender, sweet, and so delicate when cooked just right. Be sure to buy fresh, high-quality scallops for the best results.
• Garlic: The flavor booster. Fresh garlic brings that signature aromatic punch that pairs beautifully with scallops.
• Butter: A rich, creamy base for the sauce that makes the dish feel indulgent without being overwhelming.
• Lemon Juice: For a bright, zesty contrast to the richness of the butter.
• Parsley: For a touch of freshness and color.
• Seasoning: A pinch of salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for a little heat.

(Note: Full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card above.)

Instructions

Let’s get started! These steps are so simple and straightforward that even beginner cooks can make this dish with ease.

Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure the scallops cook evenly and turn out perfectly tender.

Prepare the Scallops

Pat the scallops dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This step is crucial to getting that beautiful, caramelized sear.

Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In a small bowl, melt your butter. Once melted, add the freshly minced garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until the garlic becomes fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. If you’re feeling a little adventurous, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

Arrange the Scallops

Place the scallops in a baking dish, arranging them in a single layer. Drizzle the garlic butter sauce over the top, making sure each scallop is generously coated.

Bake the Scallops

Pop the dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. The scallops should be opaque and tender. Be careful not to overcook them, as they’ll become rubbery if left too long in the oven.

Garnish and Serve

Once done, remove the scallops from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra freshness. Serve immediately, and get ready to enjoy every bite!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

These scallops are a showstopper on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas to elevate your meal:

• Fresh Salad: A light, citrusy salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette will balance out the richness of the scallops perfectly.
• Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, buttery garlic bread to soak up all that delicious garlic butter sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, green beans, or Brussels sprouts make the perfect side dish to complement the scallops.
• Rice or Pasta: For something heartier, serve the scallops over a bed of fluffy rice or a simple pasta dish.

Additional Tips

Here are a few extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

• Use Fresh Scallops: Fresh scallops will yield the best flavor and texture, but if frozen is all you can find, just be sure to thaw them properly before cooking.
• Don’t Overcook: Scallops cook quickly. Keep an eye on them in the oven to avoid overcooking and losing that perfect, tender texture.
• Make it Ahead: You can prepare the garlic butter sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just drizzle it over the scallops right before baking.
• Add a Twist: Try adding a tablespoon of white wine or a splash of broth to the garlic butter sauce for a more complex flavor.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use frozen scallops?

A1: Yes! Just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking, and pat them dry to remove excess moisture.

Q2: Can I use a different type of seafood?

A2: Absolutely! Shrimp would work wonderfully as a substitute for scallops. Just adjust the cooking time depending on the size of the shrimp.

Q3: How do I know when the scallops are done?

A3: Scallops are done when they turn opaque and slightly firm to the touch. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become rubbery.

Q4: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

A4: You can prepare the garlic butter sauce ahead of time, but it’s best to cook the scallops just before serving to ensure they stay tender and juicy.

Q5: How do I store leftovers?

A5: Store leftover scallops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop to avoid overcooking.

Q6: Can I make this dish dairy-free?

A6: Yes, you can substitute the butter with a dairy-free option like vegan butter or olive oil. The garlic and lemon will still shine through!

Q7: How can I add more flavor to the garlic butter sauce?

A7: For an extra kick, try adding a splash of white wine, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

Q8: What’s the best way to reheat this dish?

A8: Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes, or in a pan over low heat to keep the scallops tender.

Q9: Can I double the recipe?

A9: Definitely! Just be sure to use a larger baking dish to accommodate the extra scallops and adjust the cooking time if needed.

Q10: What can I serve with garlic butter baked scallops?

A10: These scallops pair beautifully with roasted vegetables, a light salad, or creamy mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

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