Baked Scallops

Baked scallops are a delicious, easy-to-make dish that brings out the natural sweetness of the scallops while being perfectly seasoned with butter, lemon, and spices. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or a special treat for guests, these scallops are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This baked scallop recipe is simple yet flavorful, offering a balance of buttery richness, zesty lemon, and a hint of garlic and paprika. The scallops cook to perfection in the oven—tender and juicy, with just the right amount of seasoning. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also pairs beautifully with crusty bread, pasta, or a fresh salad. This recipe allows you to indulge in the luxurious taste of scallops without any complex techniques.

Ingredients

• 12 medium scallops (clean and dry)

• 2 tablespoons salted butter

• Juice of half a lemon

• Salt (to taste)

• Pepper (to taste)

• Garlic powder (to taste)

• Sweet paprika (to taste)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

2. Arrange the Scallops
   Place the cleaned and dried scallops evenly in an oven-safe casserole dish.

3. Add Lemon Juice
   Squeeze the juice of half a lemon evenly over the scallops to enhance their flavor.

4. Season the Scallops
   Season the scallops generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and sweet paprika according to your preference.

5. Add Butter
   Cut the salted butter into small chunks and distribute them evenly around the scallops in the dish.

6. Bake the Scallops
   Bake the scallops in the preheated oven for 9 minutes. After this time, carefully flip the scallops.

7. Re-Season and Continue Baking
   Once flipped, season the scallops again with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, if desired. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 9 minutes.

8. Serve
   Serve the baked scallops immediately while hot. Enjoy with crusty bread for dipping.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 5 minutes

• Cook time: 18 minutes

• Total time: 23 minutes

Variations

• Herb-infused Butter: Add fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to the butter for added flavor.

• Breadcrumb Topping: For some texture, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top of the scallops before baking.

• Spicy Kick: For heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes or drizzle a bit of hot sauce over the scallops before serving.

• Cheesy: Add a layer of melted cheese such as mozzarella or Gruyère during the last few minutes of baking for a cheesy crust.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Allow the baked scallops to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: Reheat gently in the oven or microwave. Be careful not to overcook, as this may cause the scallops to become rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen scallops. Ensure they are completely thawed before cooking, either by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or running them under cold water for quicker thawing. Be sure to pat them dry thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.

How do I know when the scallops are fully cooked?

Scallops are fully cooked when they are opaque and firm to the touch. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). They typically take about 10-15 minutes to cook in the oven.

What can I substitute for butter if I want a healthier option?

For a healthier alternative, you can use olive oil or a plant-based butter substitute. While the flavor may vary slightly, these substitutes will still provide a rich taste while reducing saturated fat content.

Can I add other ingredients to the dish?

Yes, you can customize this recipe by adding fresh herbs like parsley or thyme, lemon zest, or even a sprinkle of breadcrumbs for extra texture.

How should I store leftovers?

Cool the scallops completely, then place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be stored for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to avoid overcooking.

How do I clean and prepare the scallops?

To clean the scallops, rinse them under cold water to remove any sand or grit, then pat them dry with a paper towel. Be sure to remove the side muscle (if still attached), which is a small rectangular piece on the side of the scallop.

Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?

Though this recipe doesn’t include cheese, you can add some mild cheese such as mozzarella or Gruyère for extra flavor. Sprinkle the cheese on top during the last few minutes of baking to create a cheesy crust.

What if I don’t have fresh garlic?

If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can substitute with garlic powder. Generally, 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder equals one clove of garlic. Adjust the amount to suit your preference.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While the scallops are best served immediately, you can prep them ahead of time by arranging them in the baking dish and refrigerating them until ready to bake. However, it’s best to bake them right before serving for optimal texture.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure any added ingredients, such as breadcrumbs, are gluten-free.

Conclusion

This baked scallop recipe is a quick and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it as a weeknight dinner or serving it at a dinner party, the tender scallops, zesty lemon, and rich butter will make your meal feel extra special. With minimal preparation and a few simple ingredients, you can indulge in a dish that’s as satisfying as it is elegant. Enjoy!