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Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is the perfect temperature to bake the scallops to perfection—tender on the inside and slightly golden on top.
2. Prepare the Scallops
If you’re using fresh scallops, pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps ensure they bake beautifully and don’t turn out watery. Arrange the scallops in a single layer on a baking dish or oven-safe skillet.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until fragrant (be careful not to burn the garlic). Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and a pinch of paprika (if using) for added color and flavor. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Coat the Scallops
Pour the garlic butter sauce evenly over the scallops. Use a spoon to make sure each scallop is nicely coated in the sauce.
5. Bake the Scallops
Place the baking dish or skillet in the preheated oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the scallops are cooked through. They should be opaque and easily flake apart when tested with a fork. If you want a slightly crispy top, you can broil the scallops for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end of baking, but be careful not to overcook them.
6. Add Finishing Touches
Once the scallops are done, remove the dish from the oven. Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and flavor. If you like, you can also add a generous sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese before baking for a crispy, cheesy topping.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Serve the garlic butter baked scallops immediately. They’re perfect on their own or paired with a light salad, roasted vegetables, or a bed of pasta. A side of crusty bread will allow you to scoop up the garlic butter sauce, ensuring none of it goes to waste!
Pro Tips for Perfect Scallops Every Time
Don’t Overcook Them – Scallops cook quickly, and overcooking them will result in a rubbery texture. Keep an eye on them as they bake, and remove them from the oven as soon as they’re opaque and tender.
Pat Dry – To get a nice sear or even cooking, it’s important to pat the scallops dry before baking. This helps to prevent excess moisture from steaming them, ensuring a more flavorful result.
Fresh vs. Frozen – While fresh scallops are always ideal, frozen scallops can work in a pinch. Just be sure to thaw them completely in the fridge before cooking, and pat them dry well to avoid excess water in the pan.
Customize the Flavor – While the garlic butter sauce is a classic, feel free to get creative with other flavor combinations. You can add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for heat, a splash of white wine for depth, or a little balsamic glaze for sweetness.
Why Garlic Butter Baked Scallops Are Perfect for Any Occasion
Garlic butter baked scallops aren’t just a treat for special occasions—they’re an elegant way to elevate any meal. Here are some ideas on when to enjoy this delicious recipe:
- Romantic Dinners: Scallops are an elegant choice for a romantic evening, and this dish is a great way to show someone you care without hours of preparation.
- Special Occasions: Perfect for celebrations like birthdays, anniversaries, or holidays, these scallops will impress guests and leave them talking about the meal long after it’s over.
- Weeknight Indulgence: While this dish feels gourmet, it’s quick enough to enjoy on a weeknight when you want to treat yourself to something special.
- Appetizer or Main Course: Serve these scallops as an elegant appetizer, or make them the star of the meal by pairing them with your favorite side dishes.
Final Thoughts
Garlic butter baked scallops are an incredibly simple yet elegant dish that anyone can prepare at home. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a meal that’s full of flavor and sure to impress. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just treating yourself to a luxurious dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
So, the next time you’re craving seafood that’s both sophisticated and easy to prepare, look no further than garlic butter baked scallops. Enjoy every bite! 
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