Baked Scallops with Garlic Butter Breadcrumbs
Plump, tender sea scallops baked to perfection under a golden, crispy blanket of garlic butter breadcrumbs. An elegant appetizer or light main course that's surprisingly easy to make and ready in under 25 minutes.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 12 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare Oven and Scallops
- b.Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- c.Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish or four individual gratin dishes with olive oil.
- d.Rinse the scallops and remove the small, tough side muscle if it's still attached.
- e.Thoroughly pat the scallops dry with paper towels. This step is crucial to prevent them from steaming and ensures a good texture.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Make Garlic Butter Topping
- b.In a medium bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper.
- c.Use a fork to mix until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated and have a damp, sandy texture.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Assemble the Dish
- b.Arrange the dried scallops in a single layer in your prepared baking dish, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- c.Drizzle the fresh lemon juice evenly over the scallops.
- d.Generously spoon the garlic butter breadcrumb mixture over the top of each scallop, pressing down lightly to help it adhere.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Bake to Perfection
- b.Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes.
- c.The scallops are done when they are opaque throughout and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown and crisp.
- d.For an extra crispy top, you can switch the oven to broil for the last 1-2 minutes, watching very carefully to prevent burning.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Serve Immediately
- b.Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a minute.
- c.Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the top.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Patting the scallops completely dry is the most critical step for achieving a perfect texture and preventing them from becoming rubbery.
- 2Use large sea scallops for this recipe. Smaller bay scallops cook too quickly and can easily be overdone.
- 3Do not overbake! Scallops cook in minutes. Check for doneness at the 10-minute mark. They should be opaque, not translucent.
- 4For elegant presentation, bake and serve in individual scallop shells or small gratin dishes.
- 5This dish can be assembled up to 4 hours ahead. Cover and refrigerate, then bake just before serving.
- 6Serve with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to complement the delicate seafood.
Adapt it for your goals.
Cheesy
Add 1/4 cup of finely grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb mixture for a savory, cheesy crust.
SpicySpicy
Incorporate 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes into the topping for a gentle kick of heat.
HerbaceousHerbaceous
Add 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme or chives along with the parsley for a more complex herbal flavor.
Gluten FreeGluten-Free
Substitute the panko with gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. The texture and flavor will be nearly identical.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Lean Protein
Scallops are packed with high-quality, low-fat protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle mass, and keeping you feeling full.
Supports Heart Health
Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, scallops can help reduce triglycerides, lower blood pressure, and decrease the risk of heart disease. They are also low in saturated fat.
Rich in Vitamin B12
This dish provides a significant amount of Vitamin B12, a crucial nutrient for maintaining healthy nerve cells, producing DNA, and preventing anemia.
Boosts Brain Function
The combination of omega-3s, B12, and minerals like zinc and magnesium in scallops supports cognitive function, memory, and overall brain health.
Frequently asked questions
A single serving of this recipe (about 4 scallops) contains approximately 250-300 calories, making it a relatively light and healthy appetizer or main course.