Garlic Butter Baked Scallops Recipe

If you adore seafood that’s quick to prepare yet irresistibly flavorful, then Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. This dish showcases succulent sea scallops bathed in a luscious garlic butter sauce, infused with fresh lemon juice and a hint of smoked paprika for a gentle smoky kick. Every bite bursts with buttery richness and delicate sweetness, making Garlic Butter Baked Scallops a simple yet unforgettable treat that’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is key to bringing out the best flavors and textures in Garlic Butter Baked Scallops. Each component is thoughtfully chosen to complement the natural sweetness of the scallops and create a harmonious balance on the palate.

• 1 lb sea scallops, cleaned and patted dry: Fresh, dry scallops are essential to achieve a tender, juicy texture without excess water diluting the flavors.
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted: Butter adds rich creaminess, helping to carry the garlic and spices throughout each scallop.
• 4 garlic cloves, minced: Fresh garlic provides a vibrant, aromatic punch that defines the dish’s character.
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice: Lemon juice brightens the dish with lovely acidity that cuts through the richness.
• ½ tsp smoked paprika: This subtle smoky spice adds warmth and a pop of color.
• Salt and black pepper, to taste: Seasoning is crucial to enhance and balance all the flavors.
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped: Parsley brings a fresh herbal note and lovely green color as a finishing touch.
• Lemon wedges, for serving: Additional lemon wedges allow guests to personalize their tangy kick.

How to Make Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure a hot environment that will cook the scallops perfectly. Lightly grease your baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking, making clean-up a breeze.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter

In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. This luscious garlic butter mixture is the heart of the dish, delivering bold flavor with each spoonful.

Step 3: Arrange the Scallops

Place the cleaned and dried scallops in a single layer within your prepared baking dish. This ensures even cooking and that each scallop can fully soak up that incredible garlic butter. Spoon the butter mixture evenly over the scallops, coating each piece generously.

Step 4: Bake the Scallops

Pop the dish into the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. The scallops should become opaque and firm up slightly without drying out, signaling they are perfectly cooked and ready to enjoy.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Once out of the oven, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top to add freshness and color. Serve your Garlic Butter Baked Scallops immediately with lemon wedges on the side to squeeze over for that extra zing.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a classic garnish that complements the buttery richness with a pop of vibrant green and herbaceous flavor. Adding a few lemon wedges on the plate invites diners to add brightness according to their taste, enhancing the dish’s freshness.

Side Dishes

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops pair beautifully with light, simple sides. Think fluffy jasmine rice or a creamy risotto to soak up the garlicky butter sauce. Steamed asparagus or sautéed greens make for healthy, crisp accompaniments that add texture and color to your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a restaurant-worthy presentation, arrange each scallop on small individual spoons or shells and drizzle with a bit more garlic butter. You could also serve them atop crispy crostini or a bed of lightly dressed arugula for a shareable appetizer that wows guests at any dinner party.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers from your Garlic Butter Baked Scallops feast, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For best texture and flavor, consume within 1 to 2 days, as scallops tend to lose their delicate texture over time.

Freezing

While freezing cooked scallops isn’t ideal due to texture changes, if necessary, freeze them in a tightly sealed container or freezer bag for up to one month. It’s best to freeze the scallops before baking for optimal freshness upon future cooking.

Reheating

Reheat gently to avoid toughening. Warm leftovers in a low oven setting or briefly in a microwave on medium power. Avoid overcooking during reheating to keep the scallops tender and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen scallops—just make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before baking to prevent excess moisture, which can affect both texture and flavor.

What can I substitute for smoked paprika?

If you don’t have smoked paprika on hand, regular paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper can work, but the smoky undertone will be less pronounced. A tiny bit of chipotle powder can also deliver a similar smoky heat.

Is it necessary to use unsalted butter?

Using unsalted butter gives you full control over the seasoning of the dish, helping you avoid oversalting. If you only have salted butter, adjust the added salt in the recipe accordingly.

How can I tell when scallops are done baking?

Perfectly cooked scallops will be opaque all the way through and slightly firm to the touch but still tender. Overcooked scallops become rubbery, so watch the cooking time carefully.

Can I prepare the garlic butter mixture in advance?

Absolutely! You can mix the garlic butter ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a day, then bring it to room temperature before using. This saves you time and infuses the butter with flavor.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are an effortless yet impressive way to enjoy luxurious seafood at home. The marriage of garlicky butter, fresh lemon, and tender scallops is simply irresistible. I hope you dive in and discover just how simple it is to turn everyday ingredients into a dazzling meal that will have you coming back for more.

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