Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

• Servings: 4

 Ingredients

For the Scallops:

• 1 ½ pounds large sea scallops (about 16–20)

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for pre-searing, optional)

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tsp dried)

• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for flavor and color)

• ⅛ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for mild heat)

For the Topping:

• ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)

• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 tablespoon melted butter

• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)

 Equipment Needed

• Oven-safe baking dish or small casserole dish

• Mixing bowls

• Small skillet (if searing first)

• Basting brush or spoon

• Lemon zester or grater

• Paper towels (for drying scallops)

  Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Scallops

1. Rinse the scallops under cold water and pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps them brown and bake evenly.

2. If your scallops still have the tough side muscle (a small rectangular piece on the edge), gently peel it off and discard.

3. Season scallops lightly with salt and pepper.

Optional: For extra flavor, quickly sear scallops in olive oil over high heat for 30 seconds per side before baking. This gives them a beautiful golden crust.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

1. In a small bowl, mix together:

   • 4 tablespoons melted butter

   • Minced garlic

   • Lemon juice

   • Lemon zest

   • Chopped parsley

   • Smoked paprika (if using)

   • Red pepper flakes (if using)

2. Stir well to combine. Set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Dish

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Lightly grease your baking dish with olive oil or a bit of the garlic butter mixture.

3. Arrange the scallops in a single layer, spaced slightly apart.

4. Spoon the garlic butter mixture evenly over each scallop.

5. In a separate small bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and melted butter until crumbly.

6. Sprinkle the breadcrumb topping generously over the scallops.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

1. Place the dish in the preheated oven.

2. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until scallops are opaque and just cooked through.

3. For a golden crust, switch the oven to broil for the last 1–2 minutes. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

• Remove from oven and let rest for 2 minutes.

• Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

Best Served With:

• Crusty baguette or garlic bread (to soak up the sauce)

• A light green salad

• Creamy mashed potatoes or risotto

• Steamed asparagus or sautéed spinach

 Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Reheat: Reheat gently in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 8–10 minutes. Avoid microwaving to prevent rubbery texture.

 Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and depend on exact brands used.