Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

If you’re looking for an elegant seafood dish that’s surprisingly easy to make, Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are the perfect choice. Tender scallops are baked in a rich garlic butter sauce, topped with Parmesan cheese and crispy breadcrumbs, and finished with fresh lemon and parsley for a bright, flavorful finish.

This dish delivers restaurant-quality flavor in just about 20 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or romantic date-night meals at home. The buttery garlic sauce enhances the natural sweetness of the scallops, while the golden breadcrumb topping adds a satisfying crunch.

Best of all, this recipe requires minimal prep and simple ingredients, allowing the delicate flavor of the scallops to truly shine.

---

Why I Love This Recipe

There are several reasons this scallop recipe is always a hit.

First, it’s incredibly quick to prepare. From start to finish, you can have this dish on the table in under half an hour.

Second, the garlic butter and Parmesan topping creates an irresistible combination of savory flavors and crispy texture.

And finally, it’s versatile enough for both casual dinners and elegant entertaining. Serve it with pasta, salad, or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need for these flavorful baked scallops:

• 1 lb large scallops, patted dry
• 4 tablespoons butter, melted
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges for serving

---

Ingredient Swaps and Notes

Fresh vs frozen scallops:
Frozen scallops work well if fully thawed and patted dry.

Breadcrumb options:
Panko breadcrumbs create a crispier topping than traditional breadcrumbs.

Cheese alternatives:
Romano cheese can be used instead of Parmesan for a sharper flavor.

Extra flavor:
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.

---

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

---

2. Make the Garlic Butter

In a small bowl, combine:

• Melted butter
• Minced garlic
• Lemon juice
• Salt
• Black pepper

Mix well.

---

3. Arrange the Scallops

Place the scallops in a single layer in a baking dish.

Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over the scallops.

---

4. Prepare the Topping

In another bowl, combine:

• Breadcrumbs
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Chopped parsley

Mix until evenly combined.

---

5. Add the Topping

Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the scallops.

---

6. Bake

Bake for 10–12 minutes, until:

• The scallops are opaque
• The topping is golden brown

Be careful not to overcook, as scallops can become tough.

---

7. Serve

Serve the scallops hot with fresh lemon wedges on the side for a bright, fresh finish.

---

Tips for Success

Pat scallops dry
Removing excess moisture helps them cook evenly.

Avoid overcrowding the pan
Give scallops space so they bake properly.

Don’t overcook
Scallops cook quickly; overcooking can make them rubbery.

Use fresh garlic and lemon
Fresh ingredients elevate the flavor of the dish.

---

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

These garlic butter scallops pair beautifully with a variety of side dishes.

A creamy pasta like Fettuccine Alfredo – The Creamy Pasta That Became a Comfort Food Favorite creates an indulgent seafood dinner.

For a lighter option, serve with Easy Homemade Caesar Salad with Chicken.

If you’re planning a casual lunch or dinner spread, The Ultimate Turkey Club Wrap for Easy Lunches adds a satisfying variety of flavors.

Refreshing sides like Easy Classic Pasta Salad for Any Gathering also pair well with seafood dishes.

And for a comforting addition to the table, How to Make Perfect Grilled Cheese with Homemade Tomato Soup is always a crowd-pleaser.

---

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Approximate values:

• Calories: 275
• Fat: 16 g
• Carbohydrates: 9 g
• Protein: 23 g

Values may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

---

Storage and Leftover Tips

Refrigerator:
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Reheating:
Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F until warmed through.

Avoid microwaving
Microwaving can make scallops rubbery.

Best enjoyed fresh
This dish tastes best immediately after baking.

---

More Recipes You’ll Love

If you enjoyed these baked scallops, try these delicious recipes as well:

• Easy Classic Pasta Salad for Any Gathering
• Easy Homemade Caesar Salad with Chicken
• How to Make Perfect Grilled Cheese with Homemade Tomato Soup
• The Ultimate Turkey Club Wrap for Easy Lunches
• Fettuccine Alfredo – The Creamy Pasta That Became a Comfort Food Favorite

---

Final Thoughts

These Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are a simple yet elegant seafood dish that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. With tender scallops, savory garlic butter, and a crispy Parmesan topping, this recipe brings restaurant-quality results right to your kitchen.

Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish proves that gourmet meals don’t have to be complicated.

If you try this recipe, share your results and let us know how it turned out. And don’t forget to follow Jason Griffith at Chef Maniac for more easy, flavorful recipes you can make at home.