Introduction
Welcome to our recipe for Garlic Butter Baked Scallops! If you’re a seafood lover, you’re in for a treat. This dish is a delicious and elegant way to enjoy scallops, with the rich flavor of garlic butter enhancing the natural sweetness of the seafood. Whether you’re planning a special dinner or just want to indulge in a gourmet meal at home, these baked scallops are sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are several reasons why this garlic butter baked scallops recipe is so irresistible. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a gourmet-quality dish on your table in no time. Additionally, the combination of garlic and butter creates a heavenly flavor that pairs perfectly with the delicate taste of scallops. The result is a dish that is both comforting and sophisticated.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make garlic butter baked scallops:
- 1 pound scallops, rinsed and patted dry
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional ingredient substitutions:
If you’re looking to add a twist to this recipe, you can try substituting the parsley with fresh dill or chives. You can also experiment with different types of butter, such as garlic-infused or herb-infused butter, to elevate the flavors even more.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make garlic butter baked scallops:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Place the scallops in the greased baking dish in a single layer.
- Pour the garlic butter mixture over the scallops, making sure they are evenly coated.
- Bake the scallops in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until they are opaque and cooked through.
- Serve the garlic butter baked scallops hot, garnished with additional chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking tips:
– Make sure to pat the scallops dry before baking to ensure they cook evenly and develop a nice crust.
– If you prefer a slightly browned top on your scallops, you can broil them for a couple of minutes after baking.
Expert Tips for Success
For the best results with your garlic butter baked scallops, keep these expert tips in mind:
– Use fresh scallops if possible. Frozen scallops can work, but they tend to release more moisture during cooking, resulting in a slightly different texture.
– Don’t overcook the scallops. They should be tender and juicy, so be mindful of the cooking time and check for doneness as they bake.
– If you want to add a touch of acidity to the dish, squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the scallops before serving.
Variations and Substitutions
While this recipe is delicious as is, you can get creative and customize it to suit your preferences. Here are a few ideas:
– Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top of the scallops before baking for an extra layer of flavor.
– If you’re not a fan of parsley, you can use other fresh herbs like thyme or basil.
– For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture.
– If you’re following a dairy-free diet, you can substitute the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free alternative.
Serving Suggestions
Garlic butter baked scallops are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to inspire you:
– Serve the scallops as an elegant main course alongside steamed vegetables and a side of creamy mashed potatoes.
– Turn them into a delicious appetizer by skewering the scallops and serving them with a tangy dipping sauce.
– Add the baked scallops to a salad for a light and refreshing meal option.
– Pair them with a glass of crisp white wine or a light-bodied rosé for a well-rounded dining experience.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?
A: While fresh scallops are recommended for the best flavor and texture, frozen scallops can be used as a substitute. Just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before baking.
Q: How do I know when the scallops are cooked?
A: The scallops should turn opaque and feel firm to the touch when they are cooked through. Avoid overcooking them, as they can become rubbery.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: While it’s best to enjoy garlic butter baked scallops fresh out of the oven, you can prepare the garlic butter mixture and clean the scallops in advance to save time.
Final Thoughts
Garlic butter baked scallops are a delightful seafood dish that is both easy to make and packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving a gourmet meal, this recipe is sure to satisfy. The combination of garlic-infused butter and tender scallops creates a harmonious dish that will impress your taste buds. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out!
GARLIC BUTTER BAKED SCALLOPS
A delicious and elegant seafood dish featuring tender scallops baked in a flavorful garlic butter mixture. Perfect for a special dinner or gourmet meal at home.
Ingredients
- 1 pound scallops, rinsed and patted dry
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Place the scallops in the greased baking dish in a single layer.
- Pour the garlic butter mixture over the scallops, making sure they are evenly coated.
- Bake the scallops in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until they are opaque and cooked through.
- Serve the garlic butter baked scallops hot, garnished with additional chopped parsley if desired.
