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Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops
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Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are a quick, elegant seafood dish featuring tender scallops baked in a rich, garlic-infused butter sauce with lemon and fresh herbs. Ready in under 20 minutes, this recipe delivers a perfect balance of savory and bright flavors, ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 12 fresh dry-packed scallops (about 1 lb)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Optional Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons white wine (optional)
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick)
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (for a cheesy upgrade)
  • Herbs like dill or basil (alternative to parsley)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Scallops: Pat scallops dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure they brown evenly and avoid sogginess. Remove the side muscle if still attached to maintain tenderness.
  2. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: Gently melt unsalted butter in a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Add lemon juice, chopped parsley, and white wine if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Arrange and Bake: Place scallops in a single layer on a greased baking dish or in individual ramekins. Spoon the garlic butter sauce evenly over each scallop. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 10 to 12 minutes, until scallops turn opaque and the sauce bubbles gently.
  4. Serve Immediately: Serve the baked scallops hot with an extra drizzle of the garlic butter sauce and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for brightness and color.

Notes

  • Dry your scallops completely before cooking to get a nice sear and prevent wateriness.
  • Use freshly minced garlic for the best flavor and aroma.
  • Do not overcook scallops; they cook quickly and overcooking makes them tough and rubbery.
  • Melt butter gently to avoid browning or burning the garlic.
  • Serve scallops immediately after baking for the best texture and taste.

Nutrition

Keywords: Garlic Butter Scallops, Baked Scallops, Seafood Appetizer, Quick Seafood Recipe, Healthy Scallops

Find it online: https://cherrycooks.com/garlic-butter-baked-scallops/