If you love seafood and want a dish that’s both elegant and effortless, these garlic butter baked scallops are a perfect choice. With their rich, buttery flavor and tender texture, they bring a restaurant-quality experience right to your dinner table. Best of all, this dish takes less than 20 minutes to make, making it ideal for quick weeknight meals or a romantic dinner.

Scallops are a delicate shellfish known for their naturally sweet and briny taste. When combined with garlic butter and Parmesan cheese, they develop a golden, flavorful crust that enhances their succulent texture. According to Wikipedia, scallops are a type of bivalve mollusk, often enjoyed in fine dining for their mild and slightly nutty taste. They are a lean protein source packed with omega-3 fatty acids, making them as nutritious as they are delicious.

If you’re wondering how to elevate this dish even further, you can pair it with a side of creamy pasta or a simple salad. For those looking for inspiration, check out these seafood pasta recipes on Pinterest to create a perfectly balanced meal. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, these garlic butter scallops are sure to impress.

Would you enjoy them on their own, or do you prefer a delicious pairing? 🍽️✨

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are plenty of reasons why these garlic butter baked scallops should be your next go-to recipe. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for an easy yet impressive dish, this recipe has something for everyone.

1. Quick & Easy to Make

This dish comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans. There’s no complicated prep work—simply mix the garlic butter, coat the scallops, and bake! If you’ve ever hesitated to cook scallops at home, you’ll be amazed at how simple and foolproof this method is.

2. Restaurant-Quality at Home

Ordering scallops at a high-end restaurant can be pricey, but making them at home is much more affordable without compromising on flavor. With a rich, buttery sauce and a golden Parmesan topping, these baked scallops taste just as luxurious as the ones from your favorite seafood spot.

3. Buttery, Garlicky Goodness

The combination of melted butter, fresh garlic, and Parmesan cheese creates a creamy, savory sauce that enhances the natural sweetness of the scallops. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end adds a touch of brightness that balances the flavors beautifully. Learn more about the culinary benefits of butter here, and discover why it’s a staple in so many seafood recipes.

4. Versatile Serving Options

These garlic butter scallops can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a variety of sides. Try serving them with a side of crusty garlic bread or over a bed of buttery linguine. If you’re looking for inspiration, check out these elegant seafood dishes for more ideas.

5. Healthy & Nutritious

Scallops are a lean protein source, naturally low in fat and calories while being packed with essential vitamins and minerals. They are especially rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B12, and zinc, all of which support heart health and immune function. If you’re looking for a dish that’s both indulgent and nutritious, this one is a winner!

Would you pair these scallops with pasta, risotto, or a light salad? Let us know your favorite way to enjoy them! 🍽️

Ingredients Breakdown & Substitutions

A great dish starts with high-quality ingredients. Here’s everything you need to make these garlic butter baked scallops, plus some useful substitutions if you want to customize the recipe.

1. Scallops: The Star of the Dish

Sea scallops are ideal for this recipe because they’re larger and meatier than bay scallops. They have a naturally sweet, delicate flavor that pairs perfectly with the buttery garlic sauce.
If using bay scallops, reduce the cooking time since they are smaller and cook faster.

📌 Tip: Make sure to pat scallops dry before baking—this helps them develop a beautiful golden crust instead of turning watery. Learn more about scallops and their types.

2. Butter: The Key to a Rich, Flavorful Sauce

Unsalted butter is best because it allows you to control the salt level in the dish.
If you need a dairy-free alternative, try using olive oil or ghee for a slightly different but still rich flavor.

3. Garlic: The Essential Flavor Booster

Freshly minced garlic provides the best aroma and taste. If you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder can be used as a backup.
Want an even deeper garlic flavor? Roast the garlic before mixing it into the butter.

4. Parmesan Cheese: Adding a Savory, Golden Crust

Grated Parmesan adds umami flavor and a slightly crispy topping.
Substitute with Pecorino Romano for a stronger, saltier taste or leave it out for a dairy-free option.

5. Lemon Juice & Fresh Herbs: Bright & Fresh Finishing Touches

A squeeze of fresh lemon juice balances the richness of the butter and enhances the scallops’ natural sweetness.
Parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, but you can swap it for chives, basil, or thyme.

📌 Tip: If you love experimenting with flavors, check out these herb and seasoning ideas for more inspiration.

Would you stick to the classic recipe, or try a twist with different seasonings?

Step-by-Step Instructions with Pro Tips

Making garlic butter baked scallops is incredibly simple. Follow these steps for perfect results every time!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven & Prepare the Baking Dish

Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with butter or olive oil.

Step 2: Prepare the Scallops

Pat scallops dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
Arrange them in a single layer in the baking dish—this ensures they cook evenly.

📌 Pro Tip: Wet scallops won’t sear properly. Look for dry-packed scallops for the best results. Learn more about proper baking techniques.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In a small bowl, mix:
- 4 tablespoons melted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
Drizzle the garlic butter mixture evenly over the scallops.

Step 4: Add the Parmesan Cheese

Sprinkle ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese over the scallops for a golden crust.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 12-15 minutes, until the scallops turn opaque and are cooked through.
If you want a crispy top, broil for the last 1-2 minutes.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

Remove from the oven and drizzle with fresh lemon juice.
Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh finishing touch.

📌 Pro Tip: Want an extra buttery, creamy texture? Try serving the scallops with this creamy garlic butter sauce.

Would you add an extra kick with red pepper flakes, or keep it classic and mild?

Serving Suggestions & Side Dishes

Wondering what to serve with garlic butter baked scallops? Here are some delicious pairings to complete your meal.

1. Pasta Pairings

Serve over a plate of linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine with extra garlic butter sauce.
Try a creamy Alfredo pasta or a simple olive oil & herb pasta for a balanced dish.

📌 Need pasta inspiration? Check out these seafood pasta ideas.

2. Grains & Starches

Pair with risotto, quinoa, or garlic mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.
A light lemon rice pilaf complements the flavors perfectly.

3. Vegetable Sides

Roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or sautéed spinach add freshness.
A simple side salad with a lemon vinaigrette keeps the meal light.

4. Bread Pairings

Serve with garlic bread or a French baguette to soak up the buttery sauce.
Try a buttery dinner roll for a softer option.

What’s your favorite side to enjoy with scallops?

Variations & Customization Ideas

Want to switch things up? Here are some fun variations to try.

1. Bacon-Wrapped Scallops

Wrap each scallop in a slice of bacon before baking for a smoky, savory twist.

2. Herb Butter Scallops

Swap parsley for basil or thyme for a different herbaceous flavor.

3. Spicy Cajun Scallops

Add Cajun seasoning for a bold, spicy kick.

4. Panko-Crusted Scallops

Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs over the scallops for an extra crispy topping.

5. Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce

Make extra garlic butter sauce and toss it with pasta for a luxurious seafood dish.

Which variation would you try first?

Storage & Reheating Tips

Storing Leftovers

Keep scallops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Avoid freezing—scallops can become rubbery when reheated.

Reheating Scallops

Oven: Reheat at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes.
Stovetop: Warm on low heat with a little butter for extra moisture.
Microwave: Use low power and heat in short intervals to avoid overcooking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What’s the best type of scallops for baking?

Sea scallops are best since they are larger, meatier, and hold up well in the oven.

2. Can I use frozen scallops?

Yes! Just thaw them overnight in the fridge and pat dry before baking.

3. How do I know when scallops are fully cooked?

They should be opaque and slightly firm to the touch. Overcooked scallops turn rubbery.

4. What’s the best wine pairing?

A crisp Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with this dish. Check out wine pairings for seafood.

Which question do you find most helpful? Let us know! 🍷✨

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops