Garlic Butter Baked Scallops instantly take me back to a chilly afternoon on the New England coast. I was wrapped in a sweater, walking past a seaside bistro when the rich aroma of garlic and butter pulled me in. The scallops arrived golden and sizzling, tucked in a tiny cast-iron dish, their buttery tops glistening with parsley. One bite, and I was in love.
Back home, I had to recreate that moment. I kept refining the recipe until everything clicked — tender scallops, rich garlic butter, lemon for brightness, and a crispy, cheesy topping with a touch of paprika.
The best part? It’s incredibly simple. Just pantry staples, fresh sea scallops, and less than 30 minutes. Yet it tastes like a restaurant-worthy dinner.
Friends were amazed. One served it with Mini Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Balls; another paired it with wine for a cozy night in. It’s that kind of dish — easy, elegant, and full of flavor.
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Why This Recipe Feels So Special
Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are special because they deliver incredible flavor with surprisingly little effort. You don’t need complicated techniques or hours in the kitchen — just a few fresh ingredients and one baking dish.
The scallops stay wonderfully tender while soaking up all that buttery, garlicky richness. A sprinkle of Parmesan and breadcrumbs creates a golden crust that adds the perfect crunch. The touch of lemon brightens everything up, cutting through the richness and balancing the dish.
What makes this recipe stand out even more is its versatility. It’s elegant enough to serve at a dinner party but simple enough for a weeknight meal. Paired with something like Creamy Cajun Chicken Linguine or a crisp white wine, it turns any evening into a little celebration.
Whether you’re impressing guests or treating yourself, these baked scallops feel like a little luxury — without the restaurant price tag.
Ingredients & Preparation
The Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these Garlic Butter Baked Scallops, you only need a handful of simple ingredients — but each one plays a key role in building that rich, savory flavor. If you’re a seafood lover, this dish might just become a new favorite.
Here’s a quick breakdown of what you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sea scallops | 1 lb | Cleaned and patted dry |
| Unsalted butter | 4 tbsp (melted) | Use high-quality butter for the best flavor |
| Garlic | 3 cloves (minced) | Fresh is best |
| Breadcrumbs | 1/2 cup | Panko adds a crispier texture |
| Parmesan cheese | 1/4 cup (grated) | Use freshly grated for the richest taste |
| Lemon juice | 1 tbsp | Brightens and balances the butter |
| Paprika | 1/2 tsp | Smoked paprika adds depth |
| Salt & pepper | To taste | Adjust depending on your butter and cheese |
| Fresh parsley | For garnish (optional) | Adds color and a fresh finish |
Garlic Butter Baked Scallops
- Total Time: 28
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are a rich, buttery, and golden seafood dish made with sea scallops, garlic, Parmesan, and lemon. Ready in under 30 minutes, this cozy, crowd-pleasing dinner is easier than you’d expect.
Ingredients
• 1 lb sea scallops (cleaned and patted dry)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Panko preferred)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pat scallops completely dry and place them in a lightly greased baking dish.
3. In a bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Spoon the mixture evenly over the scallops.
5. Bake for 15–18 minutes, until scallops are opaque and topping is golden.
6. Optional: Broil for 1–2 minutes for extra crisp topping.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
– Use fresh or properly thawed scallops for best texture.
– Crushed butter crackers can be used instead of breadcrumbs.
– Parmesan can be substituted with Asiago or Pecorino Romano.
– Avoid microwaving leftovers to maintain texture.
– Pairs well with risotto, roasted vegetables, or light salad.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 18
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Each of these ingredients brings something beautiful to the table. The garlic and butter meld into a fragrant base, while breadcrumbs and Parmesan create that irresistible crust. Don’t skip the lemon — it’s the secret to balancing richness with brightness.
I often serve this dish alongside a light salad like the Mediterranean Chickpea Salad — it complements the scallops without overpowering them.
Tools, Tips & Easy Substitutions
You don’t need much to make this recipe shine — just a baking dish, a small mixing bowl, and a spoon. If you’re using frozen scallops, just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before baking. Too much moisture can affect the texture.
If you’re out of breadcrumbs, crushed butter crackers make a great substitute. And for a nuttier twist, try swapping Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or even Asiago.
Don’t have fresh parsley? A little dried parsley or even finely chopped chives can do the trick.
And if you’re looking for a main dish that pairs beautifully with this, consider the Garlic Cajun Chicken with Cheesy Mozzarella Linguine — the flavor profiles work together wonderfully.
Cooking Instructions & Tips
Step-by-Step Method to Perfect Garlic Butter Baked Scallops
Making Garlic Butter Baked Scallops is as easy as it is rewarding. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a dish that’s bursting with flavor and beautifully golden on top.
Let’s get started:
Step 1: Prep the Scallops
Rinse your sea scallops gently under cold water and pat them completely dry with a paper towel. Removing excess moisture helps them bake evenly and develop a better texture.
Step 2: Mix the Topping
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed and the breadcrumbs have soaked up the butter.
Step 3: Assemble in Baking Dish
Arrange the scallops in a lightly greased baking dish, spacing them slightly apart. Spoon the garlic butter mixture evenly over the top of each scallop.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden
Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15–18 minutes, or until the scallops are opaque and the topping is golden and crisp. Avoid overbaking — you want them tender, not rubbery.
Optional: Turn on the broiler for the last 1–2 minutes to add an extra golden crunch on top.
Tips & Tricks to Nail It Every Time
-
Use dry scallops: Always pat them thoroughly. Wet scallops steam — dry ones bake beautifully.
-
Don’t crowd the pan: Leave a little space around each scallop so the heat circulates evenly.
-
Grate your own cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and adds richer flavor.
-
Add zest: A pinch of lemon zest in the topping adds extra brightness.
-
Use a shallow dish: It allows the breadcrumbs to brown evenly.
Once they’re out of the oven, garnish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or serve with a lemon wedge for an added burst of freshness.
These scallops pair wonderfully with a veggie-forward dish like Caramelized Butternut Squash with Gorgonzola or even a melty Brie and Blackberry Jam Grilled Cheese for a rich, unexpected combo.
Serving, Storing & Pairing
What to Serve with Garlic Butter Baked Scallops
These Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are rich, buttery, and slightly crisp — which means they love to be paired with something fresh, light, or gently creamy. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner or a weeknight treat, you’ll find this dish incredibly easy to pair.
If you’re going for cozy comfort, try serving them with Irresistible Shrimp Crab Spinach Dip. The contrast of warm seafood dip and baked scallops is simply mouthwatering.
For something lighter, a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or a roasted veggie medley is perfect. Want to take things up a notch? Add a small serving of Baked Lemon Garlic Cod with Butter Sauce for a double seafood main course — delicate yet decadent.
More pairing ideas:
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Lemon-herb risotto
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Steamed asparagus with olive oil
-
Herbed couscous or buttered noodles
-
Crusty sourdough bread to soak up the buttery juices
And don’t forget the wine! A crisp white like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio balances the richness of the butter and garlic beautifully.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
One of the best things about these Garlic Butter Baked Scallops? They store well — and reheat like a dream if you do it gently.
To store:
Allow the scallops to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Keep them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For the best texture, avoid stacking them.
To reheat:
Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C). Place the scallops in a small baking dish, cover loosely with foil, and warm for 8–10 minutes, just until heated through. This low-temp method keeps them from turning rubbery.
Avoid microwaving — it tends to overcook the delicate scallops and can make the breadcrumbs soggy.
If you’re feeling creative with leftovers, chop up the scallops and mix them into a light pasta or even spoon them over toasted baguette slices for a fancy seafood bruschetta.
For more make-ahead-friendly recipes, don’t miss this reader favorite: Mediterranean Chickpea Salad. It’s fresh, crunchy, and fridge-friendly — a smart companion for day-two scallops.
FAQ: Garlic Butter Baked Scallops
Can I use frozen scallops instead of fresh?
Yes, absolutely. Just make sure to thaw them completely in the fridge and pat them dry thoroughly before cooking. Removing excess moisture helps them bake properly and avoids a watery dish.
How do I know when scallops are fully cooked?
Scallops are done when they turn opaque and slightly firm to the touch. Overcooking can make them rubbery, so watch them closely after the 15-minute mark.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the topping mixture a few hours ahead and store it covered in the fridge. Assemble and bake just before serving for the best texture.
What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
You can substitute with Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. Each will bring a slightly different, but still delicious, flavor.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
As written, it’s not — but you can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Can I use bay scallops instead of sea scallops?
Yes, but keep in mind that bay scallops are smaller and cook faster. Reduce the baking time to about 10–12 minutes and watch for doneness.
Conclusion
There’s something incredibly comforting about sitting down to a plate of Garlic Butter Baked Scallops — golden, tender, and infused with the rich aroma of garlic and butter. Whether you’re cooking to impress or simply treating yourself after a long day, this recipe delivers on every front: flavor, ease, and elegance.
What I love most is how effortlessly it fits into so many moments. Serve it with your favorite wine and a side like Mini Cranberry Pecan Goat Cheese Balls for a holiday gathering, or pair it with a comforting main like Garlic Cajun Chicken with Cheesy Mozzarella Linguine for a weeknight that feels special.
And if you’re curious to explore more delicious baked scallop variations, you’ll love this flavorful version over at Will Cook For Smiles — it’s another fantastic take on this beloved dish.
Thank you for spending a little time in my kitchen today. I hope you enjoy every buttery bite.