Oh my goodness, if you’re a seafood lover like me, you’re in for a treat with these garlic butter baked scallops! Seriously, this recipe is a game changer—it’s easy, flavorful, and comes together in just 30 minutes! I remember the first time I made these; the buttery aroma filled my kitchen, and I could hardly wait to dig in. Scallops have this wonderful sweet and delicate flavor that really shines when paired with rich garlic butter. You won’t believe how simple it is to achieve such a fancy dish at home! Whether it’s a special occasion or just a cozy weeknight dinner, these scallops are bound to impress. So let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!
Ingredients List
Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up these delicious garlic butter baked scallops. I promise, each ingredient plays a vital role in creating that mouthwatering flavor!
- 1 pound scallops: Fresh scallops are best for this recipe. Look for ones that are plump and slightly translucent. Trust me, they make all the difference!
- 4 tablespoons butter: Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness. It melts beautifully and adds that rich, creamy base.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic brings a punch of flavor. Feel free to adjust the amount if you’re a garlic lover like me!
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Freshly squeezed is the way to go! It brightens the dish and complements the scallops perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped: Fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh taste. You can swap it for another herb if you like!
- Salt, to taste: Just a pinch will enhance the flavors, but be careful not to overdo it since the butter adds some saltiness too.
- Pepper, to taste: Freshly cracked black pepper adds a nice kick. I like to go a little heavy on this for an extra depth of flavor.
How to Prepare Garlic Butter Baked Scallops
Alright, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a plate of mouthwatering garlic butter baked scallops ready in no time. Trust me, it’s all about the timing and the love you put into it!
Step 1 – Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is super important because it ensures that your scallops cook evenly and get that beautiful golden finish. So, while you prepare everything else, let that oven warm up!
Step 2 – Melt the Butter
Next, grab a saucepan and melt the 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Make sure to keep an eye on it—medium heat is key here to prevent the butter from burning. You want it to melt gently, becoming that luscious base for all the flavors to come!
Step 3 – Add Garlic
Now, here comes the magic! Add in the 3 cloves of minced garlic to the melted butter. Stir it around and let it cook for about 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen starts to smell like a cozy Italian restaurant—yum!
Step 4 – Combine Ingredients
Once that garlic is fragrant, stir in the 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and the chopped parsley. This is where the dish gets its brightness and freshness. Mix it all together until well combined—you’re building flavor layers here!
Step 5 – Prepare Scallops
Now, take your fresh scallops and place them in a baking dish. Season them with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be shy with the seasoning—it really enhances the natural sweetness of the scallops!
Step 6 – Pour Garlic Butter Mixture
Pour that delicious garlic butter mixture evenly over the scallops. Make sure each scallop is coated so they soak up all that buttery goodness. It’s like giving them a cozy little bath of flavor!
Step 7 – Bake the Scallops
Finally, pop your baking dish into the preheated oven and let them bake for 15-20 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the scallops are opaque and firm to the touch. Keep an eye on them—overcooking can make them tough, and we definitely want tender, juicy bites!
FAQ Section
Got questions? I’ve got answers! Here are some common queries I get about my garlic butter baked scallops recipe. Hopefully, this clears things up for you!
Can I use frozen scallops instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Frozen scallops can still be delicious, but fresh really gives that sweet flavor a boost!
What if I don’t have parsley?
No worries! You can substitute with other fresh herbs like cilantro or basil, or even just leave it out if you prefer. The garlic butter will still be fabulous!
How do I know when the scallops are done?
Great question! They’re done when they’re opaque and firm to the touch. If they look slightly translucent in the center, give them a few more minutes. You want them tender, not rubbery!
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While these scallops are best served fresh, you can prepare the garlic butter mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it before pouring over the scallops right before baking!
What can I serve with garlic butter baked scallops?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! They pair beautifully with a light salad, some crusty bread to soak up the buttery sauce, or even over a bed of pasta or rice. Enjoy experimenting!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional content for a serving of my garlic butter baked scallops. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so they’re not set in stone. Always feel free to adjust according to your preferences!
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Enjoy these scallops guilt-free, knowing they’re not just delicious but also packed with protein and flavor!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner guests!
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic and buttery goodness elevates the natural sweetness of the scallops, creating a dish that’s simply irresistible.
- Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with protein and low in carbs, these scallops are a guilt-free indulgence that fits into any healthy eating plan.
- Impressive Presentation: Serve these scallops straight from the oven, and you’ll wow your family and friends with a dish that looks as good as it tastes!
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to the garlic butter for a personal touch that suits your taste buds.
- Gluten-Free: This dish is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
Tips for Success
To ensure your garlic butter baked scallops turn out perfectly every time, here are some pro tips that I’ve picked up along the way. Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom can make all the difference!
- Fresh is Best: Always use fresh scallops when possible. Frozen scallops can work in a pinch, but fresh ones will give you that sweet, delicate flavor that makes this dish shine.
- Don’t Overcook: Keep a close eye on your scallops! Overcooking can make them tough and chewy. They’re done when they’re opaque, firm to the touch, and still juicy—aim for that perfect texture!
- Adjust Garlic to Taste: If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add an extra clove or two. But, if you’re unsure, start with the recommended amount and adjust according to your taste preferences. It’s all about what you love!
- Let the Butter Cool: After melting the butter, let it cool for a minute before adding the garlic. This helps prevent the garlic from burning too quickly, giving you that beautiful, fragrant flavor without bitterness.
- Garnish for Flair: Don’t skip the garnish! A sprinkle of extra chopped parsley or even a dash of paprika on top right before serving adds a lovely pop of color and a hint of extra flavor.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to mix in other herbs or a hint of spice to the garlic butter. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick, or try swapping in thyme or oregano for a different twist!
- Perfect Pairings: Think about what you want to serve alongside your scallops. A simple side salad or some crusty bread can complement the buttery sauce beautifully, making for a well-rounded meal.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to impress! Happy cooking!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to switch things up a bit, there are so many fun variations you can try with this garlic butter baked scallops recipe! Each one adds a unique twist while keeping that buttery goodness intact. Here are some ideas to get your creative juices flowing!
- Herb Medley: Instead of just parsley, mix in other fresh herbs like thyme, dill, or chives for a more complex flavor. Each herb brings its own personality to the dish!
- Spicy Kick: For those who love a little heat, throw in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the garlic butter mixture. It’ll give your scallops a delightful kick that pairs beautifully with the richness!
- Lemon Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest along with the juice for an extra burst of citrusy brightness. It’s a simple addition that elevates the dish even more!
- Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan or crumbled feta over the scallops before baking. The cheese melts beautifully and adds a savory depth of flavor that’s oh-so-delicious!
- Asian Twist: Swap out the lemon juice for soy sauce and add a touch of sesame oil to the garlic butter. Finish with some sliced green onions for an Asian-inspired twist that’s equally mouthwatering!
- Mushroom Medley: Toss in some sautéed mushrooms along with the scallops. Their earthy flavor complements the buttery garlic perfectly, adding another layer of richness to the dish.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Chop up some sun-dried tomatoes and mix them into the garlic butter. Their tangy sweetness adds a burst of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the scallops.
Feel free to experiment and find your favorite combination! The beauty of this recipe is that it’s so versatile, allowing you to tailor it to your taste preferences. Happy cooking, and enjoy your delicious creations!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, if you find yourself with any leftovers (which can be hard to believe because they’re so good!), here’s how to store and reheat your garlic butter baked scallops to keep them tasting amazing. You definitely don’t want to miss out on that buttery goodness!
First, let the scallops cool down to room temperature before storing. Once cooled, transfer them to an airtight container. I like to layer a piece of parchment paper between the scallops to prevent them from sticking together. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for about 2 days.
When it comes to reheating, I recommend using the oven to keep that lovely texture intact. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and place the scallops in a baking dish. Cover them with foil to prevent them from drying out, and heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. Keep an eye on them—reheating too long can make them rubbery!
If you’re in a hurry, you can also use the microwave. Just pop them in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a lid (or a damp paper towel) to retain moisture. Microwave in short bursts of 30 seconds, checking in between to avoid overcooking. You want them warm, not hot! Enjoy every last bite!
PrintGarlic Butter Baked Scallops: 30-Minute Flavorful Delight
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Easy and flavorful garlic butter baked scallops recipe.
Ingredients
- 1 pound scallops
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Stir in lemon juice and parsley.
- Place scallops in a baking dish and season with salt and pepper.
- Pour the garlic butter mixture over the scallops.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until scallops are opaque.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- Use fresh scallops for best flavor.
- Adjust garlic according to your taste.
- Garnish with extra parsley if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Seafood
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: garlic butter baked scallops, easy scallops recipe, flavorful scallops