When it comes to seafood, few dishes feel as luxurious as Garlic Butter Baked Scallops. These tender morsels of the ocean are a culinary treasure, and when baked in a rich garlic butter sauce with hints of lemon, they become absolutely irresistible. The best part? They’re surprisingly easy to make, yet look and taste like something you’d order at a five-star restaurant. This detailed guide will show you how to create a dish that’s both simple and spectacular—perfect for special occasions or whenever you want to treat yourself to something extraordinary.
Whether you’re a seasoned seafood lover or a newcomer to scallops, this recipe will walk you through every step to ensure your scallops come out perfectly cooked, buttery, and bursting with flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Scallops have a delicate sweetness and a tender, almost melt-in-your-mouth texture when cooked properly. Pairing them with garlic, butter, and lemon creates a beautiful harmony of flavors. The garlic butter adds richness, while the lemon cuts through with a bright, tangy zing. Best of all, this dish takes just minutes to prepare and bake, making it a fantastic option for a quick, yet elegant, dinner.
Plus, baking scallops in the oven is foolproof. Unlike pan-searing (which can be tricky if you’re not used to it), baking ensures even cooking, giving you scallops that are perfectly tender without the risk of overcooking.
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Baked Scallops
For this luxurious dish, you’ll need just a handful of simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound (450g) of sea scallops (fresh or thawed, if frozen)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (for extra brightness)
- ¼ cup dry white wine (optional, but adds depth of flavor)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- ¼ cup Panko breadcrumbs (for a golden, crunchy topping)
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for a cheesy touch)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges, for serving