Description
These Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. Baked in a rich, buttery garlic sauce with a crispy golden topping, they make the perfect appetizer or main dish for seafood lovers! Best of all, they come together in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb sea scallops (patted dry)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp paprika (for color)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
- Prepare the Garlic Butter
- In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Set aside.
- Assemble the Scallops
- Place the scallops in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. Season lightly with salt and black pepper.
- Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over the scallops.
- Make the Crispy Topping
- In another small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle the mixture over the scallops for a crispy, golden topping.
- Bake the Scallops
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the scallops are opaque and tender.
- If desired, broil for an extra 1-2 minutes to create a crispy golden topping.
- Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
Notes
- Use fresh, dry scallops for the best texture. If using frozen scallops, thaw and pat dry before baking.
- Do not overbake, as scallops can become rubbery if cooked too long.
- This dish pairs well with rice, pasta, or a fresh green salad.