Baked scallops always strike a beautiful balance between elegance and simplicity, making them an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This Garlic Butter Baked Scallops recipe merges the sweet, succulent flavors of fresh sea scallops with the rich, aromatic notes of garlic and butter. There’s something mesmerizing about the way these ingredients come together, creating a dish that’s both indulgent and quick to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes in the oven, you can impress family and friends alike with minimal effort.
Why you’ll love this dish
One of the compelling reasons to try this dish is its unbeatable combination of rich flavors and quick preparation time. Imagine a weekday dinner that tastes gourmet but doesn’t require hours of labor in the kitchen! Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner for loved ones or simply treating yourself after a long week, these baked scallops are sure to steal the spotlight.
"This was the easiest and tastiest dish I’ve made in a long time! The garlic butter made the scallops melt in my mouth. Definitely a keeper!" – Sarah J.
The cooking process explained
Making Garlic Butter Baked Scallops is as straightforward as it is rewarding. You’ll begin by preheating your oven, allowing the flavors to develop as you prepare the scallops. Arranging them in a baking dish sets the stage for what’s to come—an explosion of flavor thanks to the garlic-butter mixture. Each step flows seamlessly into the next, culminating in beautifully baked scallops that are both aromatic and delicious!
What you’ll need
Gathering the right ingredients is essential for this recipe, and I promise you won’t need much:
- 1 pound sea scallops, cleaned and patted dry
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
A quick note: You can substitute the lemon juice with white wine for a slightly different zing, or replace parsley with chives for another flavor profile!
