Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

These Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are my go to anytime I want something quick but still feel like treating myself. Buttery tender scallops get dressed up with bright lemon garlic and a crispy Parmesan breadcrumb topper for a weeknight meal that feels restaurant fancy but is secretly so simple.

I first whipped these up on a night when I was craving seafood but did not have time for a complicated recipe. Now my family asks for them anytime scallops go on sale because they just melt in your mouth.

Ingredients

• Large scallops: fresh or frozen, patted dry for the best golden crust, pick ones that smell sweet not fishy
• Butter: melted for a rich base, use a good quality unsalted kind for best flavor
• Fresh garlic: minced for depth, buy firm cloves with no green shoots
• Breadcrumbs: bring the crunch, homemade gives better texture if you have time
• Parmesan cheese: grated, not pre shredded which can be dry, for intense flavor
• Fresh parsley: chopped for color and freshness, opt for bright even colored bunches
• Lemon juice: adds brightness, pick heavy lemons with thin skin for juicier results
• Salt and black pepper: seasoning to highlight all the flavors, taste as you go
• Lemon wedges for serving: offers a fresh tangy finish, use just before serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set the oven temperature to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and let it fully preheat for even cooking

Make the Garlic Butter:

Combine the melted butter with minced garlic fresh lemon juice and seasoning blend well to let the flavors infuse

Arrange the Scallops:

Lay the scallops in a single layer in a baking dish making sure none overlap this ensures each one bakes evenly

Coat with Garlic Butter:

Pour the seasoned melted butter over all the scallops using a spoon to coat each one fully so they soak up the flavor

Mix the Topping:

Combine breadcrumbs grated Parmesan and chopped parsley in a small bowl toss together so every bite gets crunch and cheese

Add the Topping:

Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the scallops making sure each scallop has a little blanket of crispiness

Bake to Perfection:

Place the dish in the hot oven and bake for about 10 to 12 minutes the scallops should turn opaque and the topping will get golden and crisp

Serve Hot:

Remove from the oven and serve immediately with extra lemon wedges for squeezing right before eating

Save

My favorite part of these scallops is always the crispy topping which reminds me of family gatherings when my dad would sneak the last crunchy bite straight from the dish Those moments always make me smile every time I make this recipe

Storage Tips

Leftover scallops store best in an airtight container for up to two days in the refrigerator. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, just until warmed through, to keep them tender. If you want to make ahead, prepare the dish up to the point of baking. Store covered in the fridge and bake fresh when ready to serve.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are out of scallops, this recipe transforms beautifully with peeled shrimp or white fish like cod or tilapia—just adjust the baking time depending on thickness. For the breadcrumb topping, gluten free panko is a great swap that keeps things crisp. You can use pecorino cheese in place of Parmesan for a saltier bite.

Serving Suggestions

I like to serve these scallops alongside a simple green salad or roasted asparagus to balance out the rich butter. For a more filling meal, spoon the scallops and their buttery juices over angel hair pasta or fluffy rice. Do not forget lots of fresh lemon on the side for everyone.

A Little History

Baked scallops are a classic coastal dish in New England and the American South, prized for how they showcase fresh seafood. The garlic butter and Parmesan breadcrumb combo is a modern update, giving it irresistible flavor and crunch.

Recipe Questions

→ How do I keep scallops tender while baking?

Ensure you pat scallops dry before baking and avoid overcooking. Bake until just opaque for a soft, tender texture.

→ Can I use frozen scallops?

Yes, but thaw them completely and pat dry to remove any excess moisture for the best crispy topping.

→ What kind of breadcrumbs are best?

Use plain or panko breadcrumbs for added crunch, or try seasoned breadcrumbs for extra flavor.

→ How can I add more flavor?

Extra herbs like chives or thyme, or a touch more Parmesan, can deepen the savory taste of the final dish.

→ Are these suitable for gluten-free diets?

Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs to enjoy this dish while keeping it entirely gluten-free.