Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and paprika until well combined.
- Arrange the cleaned scallops in a greased baking dish in a single layer.
- Drizzle the garlic butter mixture evenly over the scallops.
- In another bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until they are evenly blended.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture generously over the scallops.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the scallops are tender and the topping is golden brown.
- If desired, garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot alongside rice or steamed vegetables.
Best ways to enjoy it
Serving Garlic Butter Baked Scallops is all about creativity! You can plate them beautifully by arranging scallops on angel hair pasta, drizzled with a bit of the leftover garlic butter for extra flavor. Pair them with a fresh salad, roasted asparagus, or buttery mashed potatoes to create a well-rounded meal. Don’t forget a zesty lemon wedge to brighten the dish!
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, avoid the microwave if possible; instead, gently heat in an oven or stovetop to maintain that tender texture. While scallops are best enjoyed fresh, if you need to freeze them, do so before baking. Make sure to tightly wrap them in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.
Helpful cooking tips
- Pat the scallops dry: This helps to achieve that perfect, golden-brown crust during baking.
- Don’t crowd the scallops: Make sure they are in a single layer for even cooking.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to add herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist.
Creative twists
While this recipe is delicious as is, you can easily adapt it to your taste preferences! Try adding a splash of white wine to the garlic butter for added depth, or switch up the cheese by using Gruyère or feta. You might even consider adding finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes or spinach to the breadcrumb mixture for an extra flavor punch.
FAQ
How long does it take to prepare Garlic Butter Baked Scallops?
Preparation usually takes about 10–15 minutes, with an additional 15–18 minutes of baking time. It’s a quick yet delicious dish to whip up!
Can I substitute other seafood for scallops?
Absolutely! This recipe can be adapted with shrimp or even firm fish fillets. Just adjust the cooking time based on the seafood you choose.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
You can easily make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs, ensuring all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
With a few simple steps and ingredients, Garlic Butter Baked Scallops transforms into a sumptuous dish ready to impress your loved ones. Enjoy every bite of this elegant seafood meal!
