WOULD YOU EAT THIS GARLIC BUTTER BAKED SCALLOPS

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Difficulty: Easy to Medium
Cuisine: American / Seafood
Category: Main Dish / Appetizer

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Ingredients

• 1 lb large sea scallops (fresh or thawed if frozen)

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

• Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese for topping

• Optional: lemon wedges for serving

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Equipment Needed

• Baking dish or shallow oven-safe pan

• Small mixing bowl

• Spoon or basting brush

• Knife and cutting board

• Oven

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Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven (Intensity: Very Easy, Time: 2 min)

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Lightly grease a baking dish with a small amount of butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Tip: Using a shallow dish ensures even cooking and browning.

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Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter (Intensity: Easy, Time: 3 min)

1. In a small mixing bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

2. Mix thoroughly until well blended.

Tip: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but you can use pre-minced garlic in a pinch.

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Step 3: Prepare the Scallops (Intensity: Easy, Time: 2 min)

1. Pat scallops dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This ensures a better sear and prevents them from becoming watery.

2. Arrange the scallops in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.

Tip: Make sure scallops are not touching each other to allow for even cooking.

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Step 4: Coat Scallops with Garlic Butter (Intensity: Easy, Time: 2 min)

1. Spoon the garlic butter mixture over each scallop.

2. Optional: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor and a lightly crispy texture.

Tip: Use a basting brush for even coating or pour carefully with a spoon.

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Step 5: Bake the Scallops (Intensity: Medium, Time: 12–15 min)

1. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven.

2. Bake for 12–15 minutes, until scallops are opaque and slightly firm to the touch.

3. Optional: For a golden finish, broil for the last 1–2 minutes.

Tip: Do not overcook scallops; they become rubbery if baked too long. Cooking times may vary depending on size.

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Step 6: Garnish and Serve (Intensity: Very Easy, Time: 2 min)

1. Remove the scallops from the oven.

2. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top.

3. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for extra zest.

Tip: Serve with crusty bread, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve as a main course with garlic mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables.

• Pair with a light white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.

• Great as an appetizer for dinner parties or special occasions.

• Can be served over pasta or risotto for a more filling dish.

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Storage

• Room Temperature: Best served immediately after cooking.

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or oven at 300°F (150°C).

• Freezer: Not recommended after baking; scallops lose texture when frozen cooked.

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Nutrition Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

Note: Nutrition may vary depending on butter amount, added cheese, and scallop size.

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Cooking Intensities Recap

• Preheat Oven: Very Easy – 2 minutes, minimal effort.

• Prepare Garlic Butter: Easy – 3 minutes, simple mixing.

• Prepare Scallops: Easy – 2 minutes, involves drying and arranging.

• Coat Scallops: Easy – 2 minutes, spooning or brushing.

• Bake: Medium – 12–15 minutes, careful timing required.

• Garnish and Serve: Very Easy – 2 minutes, minimal effort.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Simple: Ready in under 25 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.

• Rich Flavor: Garlic butter and lemon elevate the natural sweetness of scallops.

• Elegant Presentation: Ideal for dinner parties or special occasions.

• Customizable: Add Parmesan, paprika, or herbs for personal touches.

• Healthy and Protein-Rich: Scallops are high in protein, low in carbs, and pair well with light sides.

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Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

1. Pat Dry: Always remove excess moisture from scallops to avoid watery baking.

2. Use Fresh Scallops: Fresh or properly thawed frozen scallops yield the best flavor and texture.

3. Do Not Overcook: Scallops cook quickly; overbaking makes them rubbery.

4. Use Fresh Herbs: Parsley, chives, or thyme elevate the presentation and flavor.

5. Serve Immediately: Scallops are best enjoyed hot and fresh from the oven.

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Optional Variations

1. Spicy Garlic Butter Scallops: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter mixture for heat.

2. Parmesan Crusted: Top each scallop with grated Parmesan for a golden, crispy layer.

3. Herb-Infused Butter: Mix fresh rosemary, thyme, or dill into the garlic butter for aromatic flavor.

4. Lemon-Garlic Zest: Add lemon zest to the butter for extra citrus brightness.

5. Wine Sauce Variation: After baking, drizzle a splash of white wine over scallops for a restaurant-style touch.

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These Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are a luxurious yet simple seafood dish that can transform a weeknight dinner into a gourmet experience. Their buttery, garlicky flavor pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of scallops, creating an irresistible combination of textures and flavors.

The recipe is easy to follow, requiring minimal prep and a short baking time. By following the instructions and tips, you’ll have succulent, tender scallops with a rich garlic butter finish every time.