There’s something undeniably special about scallops—their delicate texture, subtle sweetness, and the way they melt in your mouth when cooked just right.
I remember the first time I tasted perfectly baked scallops, nestled in a golden crust of garlic butter and Parmesan. It was at a small seaside bistro, the kind where you can hear the waves crashing as you take the first bite. The balance between the crisp topping and tender scallop was pure magic—a dish so simple, yet so indulgent.
This recipe brings that restaurant-quality experience right to your kitchen. Garlic, butter, Parmesan, and fresh scallops—all baked to golden perfection in under 30 minutes!
Why Scallops Are a Must-Try for Seafood Lovers 🌊
✅ Rich in Lean Protein – Low in calories but packed with satisfying nutrients.
✅ Loaded with Omega-3s – Supports heart health and brain function.
✅ Naturally Sweet & Buttery – No heavy seasonings needed—just simple, bold flavors!
✅ Quick & Easy to Cook – Ready in minutes, yet feels like gourmet dining.
How to Choose the Best Scallops for Baking
🔹 Go for Fresh or Dry-Packed Scallops – Wet-packed scallops contain extra preservatives that affect texture.
🔹 Check for a Mild Ocean Scent – Fresh scallops should smell clean, not overly fishy.
🔹 Look for Firm, Translucent Flesh – A good scallop has a slight shine and bounce when touched.
🔹 Avoid Scallops That Look Milky – This may indicate excessive moisture absorption.
Garlic Parmesan Baked Scallops Recipe – The Ultimate Crispy & Buttery Bite 🍽️
👩🍳 Prep Time: 10 minutes
🔥 Cook Time: 15 minutes
🍽️ Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 500g fresh scallops (large, dry-packed preferred)
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
- Salt & black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1️⃣ Preheat Oven – Set to 400°F (200°C) and grease a baking dish lightly with butter or oil.
2️⃣ Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture – In a bowl, mix melted butter, garlic, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes.
3️⃣ Coat the Scallops – Arrange scallops in the dish, then spoon the garlic butter mixture over them.
4️⃣ Add Parmesan & Panko – Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs evenly over the scallops.
5️⃣ Bake to Perfection – Place in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the topping is golden and crispy.
6️⃣ Garnish & Serve – Sprinkle fresh parsley, plate up with lemon wedges, and enjoy!
Best Pairings for Garlic Parmesan Baked Scallops
🍝 Creamy Pasta – Linguine or fettuccine pairs beautifully with scallops.
🍚 Garlic Butter Rice – Absorbs all the rich scallop flavors.
🥗 Light Arugula Salad – A fresh contrast to the richness.
🍷 White Wine or Sparkling Wine – A crisp glass enhances the buttery scallops.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Cooking Scallops
🔹 How do I know when scallops are done?
Scallops should turn opaque and firm—usually after 12-15 minutes in the oven or 2-3 minutes per side on a pan.
🔹 Can I use frozen scallops?
Yes! Just thaw them in the fridge overnight before cooking for best texture.
🔹 Should I remove the side muscle from scallops?
Yes! That small, tough strip on the side should be removed before cooking for a better bite.
🔹 Why are my scallops rubbery?
Overcooking is the main reason! Stick to proper cook times for the perfect texture.
🔹 Can I air-fry instead of baking?
Absolutely! Cook scallops at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes, checking for crispiness.
The Magic of Cooking – Bringing Gourmet Flavors Home 🌊
There’s nothing better than taking a simple seafood ingredient and transforming it into a restaurant-worthy dish. Every bite of buttery, crispy scallops reminds me that great food isn’t just about flavor—it’s about the experience.
So next time you prepare scallops, slow down, savor the moment, and let the rich flavors remind you why good food brings people together.
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