Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are a luxurious yet simple dish, perfect for a special dinner or a special treat. The scallops are baked in a rich garlic butter sauce, creating a perfectly tender and flavorful bite. Here’s a delicious recipe for Garlic Butter Baked Scallops:

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) fresh scallops (cleaned and patted dry)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (or more to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for a golden crust)
• Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the garlic butter sauce:
   • In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, fresh parsley, lemon juice, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
3. Arrange the scallops:
   • Arrange the scallops in a single layer in a baking dish (preferably a shallow dish or a rimmed baking tray).
   • If you have scallops in their shells, you can bake them in the shells for an extra rustic touch. Just make sure to remove the side muscle and clean them properly.
4. Top with garlic butter:
   • Spoon the garlic butter mixture generously over each scallop, making sure each one is coated with the sauce.
5. Optional: Add Parmesan:
   • If using, sprinkle a little grated Parmesan cheese on top of each scallop. This will add a nice golden crust as it bakes.
6. Bake the scallops:
   • Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the scallops are opaque and cooked through. You should see the butter bubbling around the scallops, and they should have a golden finish if you added Parmesan.
7. Serve:
   • Remove from the oven and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the scallops for a bright, tangy finish.
   • Serve immediately with extra lemon wedges on the side and garnish with more fresh parsley, if desired.

Tips:

• Don’t overcook: Scallops cook quickly and can become tough if overcooked. Once they are opaque and firm to the touch, they are done.
• Fresh scallops: For the best flavor, always use fresh, high-quality scallops. If using frozen, make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.
• Add-ins: You can customize the garlic butter with herbs like thyme, rosemary, or tarragon for different flavors.

These Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are incredibly tender, juicy, and full of flavor, making them the perfect dish for seafood lovers. Serve them as a starter or alongside a simple salad or pasta for a full meal. Enjoy!