Garlic Butter Baked Scallops: A Luxurious yet Easy Seafood Delight

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s walk through the process step by step. Don’t worry—this recipe is beginner-friendly, and the results are worth every effort.

1. Preheat the Oven

  • Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish. This ensures the scallops cook evenly and don’t stick to the dish.

2. Prepare the Garlic Butter

  • In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
  • Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the lemon juice and chopped parsley. This mixture will be the flavor powerhouse of your dish.

3. Season the Scallops

  • Pat the scallops dry with a paper towel. This step is crucial, as excess moisture can prevent them from searing properly.
  • Season the scallops lightly with salt and pepper on both sides.

4. Assemble the Dish

  • Arrange the scallops in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle them lightly with olive oil to help them brown in the oven.
  • Spoon the garlic butter mixture evenly over the scallops, ensuring each one gets a generous coating.
  • Sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the top for a crispy, golden finish.

5. Bake to Perfection

  • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. The scallops should be opaque and firm to the touch, and the breadcrumbs should be golden brown.

6. Serve and Enjoy

  • Remove the scallops from the oven and let them rest for a minute or two. Garnish with additional parsley and serve immediately.

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