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.