I remember one late Sunday afternoon when the week had been busy and the fridge held only a small bag of scallops and a lemon. I wanted something that felt special but did not demand a lot of attention, so I pulled out a baking dish, mixed a quick butter garlic sauce, and slid the scallops into the oven. Within minutes the kitchen smelled like a little coastal dinner and we ate standing at the counter, plates warm, bright lemon threads on the scallops. That casual, comforting feeling is exactly why I keep a list of easy, reliable options like 12+ Oven-Baked Scallops Recipes Easy And Tender tucked into my head for busy weeks and small celebrations.
1. Garlic Butter Oven-Baked Scallops
Why You’ll Love It:
This is a go to when you want restaurant style scallops with almost no fuss. The garlic butter keeps scallops tender and gives a familiar cozy flavor that fits weeknight dinners and simple date nights. It is fast and forgiving so even home cooks who avoid seafood feel confident.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 1 1/2 pounds sea scallops, patted dry
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
How to Make It:
- Preheat oven to 425 F.
- Pat scallops very dry and place them in a single layer in a shallow baking dish.
- Whisk melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Spoon the garlic butter evenly over each scallop.
- Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until scallops are opaque and edges are lightly golden.
- Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Optional Enhancers (include 1–2 per recipe):
Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of smoked paprika to the butter for a subtle smoky note.
Serving Idea: Serve with crusty bread to soak up the garlic butter.
2. Lemon Herb Baked Scallops with Breadcrumbs
Why You’ll Love It:
The crisp breadcrumb topping gives contrast to the tender scallops while bright lemon and herbs keep the dish light. It is great when you want something that feels a bit elegant for guests but still comes together quickly.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 1 1/2 pounds sea scallops, patted dry
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
How to Make It:
- Preheat oven to 425 F.
- Toss panko, Parmesan, parsley, lemon zest, 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Arrange scallops in a baking dish and brush each with remaining olive oil.
- Press breadcrumb mixture gently onto the top of each scallop.
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until topping is golden and scallops are cooked through.
- Serve with lemon wedges.
Optional Enhancers (include 1–2 per recipe):
Swap This With That: Swap panko for crushed crackers if you do not have panko.
Best Pairings: Steamed asparagus, herbed couscous, chilled white wine.
3. Parmesan Crusted Scallops in Oven
Why You’ll Love It:
If you love a nutty savory crust, Parmesan gives scallops a rich finish while the oven keeps them tender inside. It is a quick way to elevate scallops for a special weeknight or a small dinner party.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 12 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 1 1/2 pounds sea scallops, patted dry
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
How to Make It:
- Preheat oven to 425 F.
- Mix Parmesan, panko, melted butter, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Place scallops in a baking dish and press the Parmesan mixture onto each scallop.
- Bake for 9 to 11 minutes until crust is golden and scallops are opaque.
- Let rest for a minute then serve with lemon slices.
Optional Enhancers (include 1–2 per recipe):
Flavor Boost: Stir a little lemon zest into the Parmesan mix for brightness.
Common Mistake to Avoid: Do not overbake. Remove scallops as soon as they are opaque to keep them tender.
4. White Wine and Herb Roasted Scallops
Why You’ll Love It:
White wine adds subtle acidity and aromatic depth, while fresh herbs lift the dish. It is a relaxed option for a midweek meal when you want something light but flavorful.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 1 1/2 pounds sea scallops, patted dry
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
How to Make It:
- Preheat oven to 425 F.
- Arrange scallops in a baking dish and scatter minced garlic and butter cubes over them.
- Pour white wine into the dish around the scallops.
- Sprinkle thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until scallops are opaque and sauce is lightly reduced.
- Spoon sauce over scallops and serve.
Optional Enhancers (include 1–2 per recipe):
Serving Idea: Serve over buttered egg noodles or creamy polenta to soak up the sauce.
Meal Prep Tip: Leftover scallops can be chilled in the sauce for up to 2 days and gently reheated in a low oven.
5. Creamy Cheddar Oven-Baked Scallops
Why You’ll Love It:
A creamy cheese topping makes scallops feel indulgent without complicated technique. It is a comforting choice when you want seafood with a warm, cheesy finish that feeds a small crowd.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 1 1/2 pounds sea scallops, patted dry
- 1/2 cup grated sharp cheddar
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives
How to Make It:
- Preheat oven to 400 F.
- Mix cheddar, mayonnaise, sour cream, and Dijon mustard until smooth.
- Place scallops in a baking dish or small gratin dishes and spoon cheese mixture over each.
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.
- Garnish with chopped chives and serve warm.
Optional Enhancers (include 1–2 per recipe):
Budget-Friendly Tip: Use a blend of cheddar and a milder cheese to save cost without losing texture.
Serving Idea: Pair with a simple green salad to balance the richness.
6. Panko Lemon Zest Scallops with Herb Drizzle
Why You’ll Love It:
Crispy panko and bright lemon zest create a crisp exterior and fresh finish. The herb drizzle brings a restaurant flourish with minimal effort and makes plating feel special.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 11 minutes
Total Time: 26 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 1 1/2 pounds sea scallops, patted dry
- 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus 2 tablespoons for herb drizzle
- Zest of 2 lemons
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
How to Make It:
- Preheat oven to 425 F.
- Toss panko with 2 tablespoons olive oil, lemon zest, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Press panko onto scallops and place on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 9 to 11 minutes until crust is golden.
- Whisk remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil with a little chopped parsley and drizzle over scallops before serving.
Optional Enhancers (include 1–2 per recipe):
Flavor Boost: Add a teaspoon of lemon juice to the herb oil for extra brightness.
Common Mistake to Avoid: Do not pack the panko too tightly or it will not crisp evenly.
7. Bacon Wrapped Oven-Baked Scallops
Why You’ll Love It:
The salty fat of bacon complements scallops and helps keep them moist while adding deep flavor. It is a classic party option that feels indulgent and pairs well with simple sides.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Total Time: 33 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 1 1/2 pounds sea scallops, patted dry
- 12 thin bacon strips, halved crosswise
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Toothpicks for securing
How to Make It:
- Preheat oven to 400 F.
- Wrap each scallop with a half strip of bacon and secure with a toothpick.
- Sprinkle bacon with brown sugar and pepper.
- Place on a lined baking sheet and bake for 16 to 18 minutes until bacon is crisp and scallops are cooked.
- Remove toothpicks and serve warm.
Optional Enhancers (include 1–2 per recipe):
Best Pairings: Roasted baby potatoes, simple green salad, pickled vegetables.
Common Mistake to Avoid: Use thin bacon for even cooking and avoid crowding the pan.
8. Tomato Basil Baked Scallops
Why You’ll Love It:
Fresh tomatoes and basil give scallops a bright Mediterranean vibe that is light and summery. It is a good choice when you want something flavorful without heavy sauces.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 12 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 1 1/2 pounds sea scallops, patted dry
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
How to Make It:
- Preheat oven to 425 F.
- Toss tomatoes, olive oil, basil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Place scallops in a baking dish and spoon tomato mixture over each.
- Bake for 9 to 11 minutes until scallops are opaque and tomatoes have softened slightly.
- Serve with extra basil garnish.
Optional Enhancers (include 1–2 per recipe):
Serving Idea: Spoon over a bed of lightly dressed arugula for a warm salad.
Meal Prep Tip: Prepare the tomato basil mixture ahead and store covered for up to a day.
9. Chili Lime Oven-Baked Scallops
Why You’ll Love It:
Bold citrus and a touch of chili make scallops sing with bright spicy flavors. It is perfect when you want a little kick and pairs well with simple sides that balance heat.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 1 1/2 pounds sea scallops, patted dry
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- Zest of 1 lime
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes or 1 small chopped fresh chili
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
How to Make It:
- Preheat oven to 425 F.
- Whisk olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, chili, and salt.
- Toss scallops in the mixture and arrange in a baking dish.
- Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until scallops are opaque.
- Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges.
Optional Enhancers (include 1–2 per recipe):
Swap This With That: Use lemon instead of lime for a milder citrus note.
Best Pairings: Coconut rice, grilled corn, chilled cucumber salad.
10. Garlic Parmesan Foil Baked Scallops
Why You’ll Love It:
Baking scallops in foil locks in juices and concentrates flavors while making cleanup easy. The garlic Parmesan topping gives a familiar savory profile that feels homey and satisfied.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 1 1/2 pounds sea scallops, patted dry
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
How to Make It:
- Preheat oven to 425 F.
- Cut four pieces of foil large enough to make packets.
- Place scallops in the center of each foil piece and top with butter, garlic, Parmesan, salt, and pepper.
- Fold packets closed and bake for 10 to 12 minutes.
- Open packets carefully and garnish with parsley before serving.
Optional Enhancers (include 1–2 per recipe):
Meal Prep Tip: Assemble packets in advance and refrigerate for up to 24 hours then bake when ready.
Common Mistake to Avoid: Do not overpack packets or steaming will prevent browning.
11. Honey Mustard Glazed Oven-Baked Scallops
Why You’ll Love It:
A sweet tangy glaze caramelizes slightly in the oven and creates a glossy finish. It is great for anyone who likes a mix of sweet and savory and wants a sauce that doubles as a glaze.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 1 1/2 pounds sea scallops, patted dry
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons sliced green onions
How to Make It:
- Preheat oven to 425 F.
- Whisk honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, soy sauce, and pepper.
- Place scallops in a baking dish and brush glaze over each scallop.
- Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until scallops are cooked and glaze is sticky.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and serve.
Optional Enhancers (include 1–2 per recipe):
Flavor Boost: Add a teaspoon of grated fresh ginger to the glaze for warmth.
Serving Idea: Serve with steamed jasmine rice to balance the glaze.
12. Mediterranean Olive and Feta Baked Scallops
Why You’ll Love It:
Briny olives and creamy feta add Mediterranean character without a lot of effort. It is a bright and savory option that pairs well with simple grains or salads.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 12 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 1 1/2 pounds sea scallops, patted dry
- 1/2 cup chopped kalamata olives
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano or 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
How to Make It:
- Preheat oven to 425 F.
- Toss olives, feta, olive oil, oregano, and pepper together.
- Arrange scallops in a baking dish and top each with the olive feta mixture.
- Bake for 9 to 11 minutes until scallops are cooked and feta is warmed.
- Serve with lemon wedges.
Optional Enhancers (include 1–2 per recipe):
Serving Idea: Serve over a bed of warm orzo or farro with a drizzle of olive oil.
Personal Note: I make a version of this when tomatoes are not in season and still get applause from family.
FAQ
Q How do I prevent scallops from becoming rubbery when I bake them
The main tip is to avoid overcooking. Bake at a high temperature for a short time and remove scallops as soon as they turn opaque. Also pat scallops very dry before seasoning so they do not steam.
Q Which scallops are best for oven baking fresh or frozen
Fresh dry packed scallops are ideal. If using frozen scallops, thaw them in the refrigerator, pat dry thoroughly, and remove any excess liquid before baking.
Q What oven temperature and timing is typical for baked scallops
A common approach is 400 to 425 F for about 8 to 12 minutes depending on scallop size. Larger scallops may need a minute or two more but check for opaqueness not color alone.
Q Can I make these scallop recipes ahead and reheat them
You can prepare toppings or glazes ahead and store separately. Cooked scallops reheat quickly in a low oven 300 F for 5 to 8 minutes but they are best when eaten right after cooking for texture.
Conclusion
There is something comforting about sliding a pan of scallops into the oven and knowing a tender, flavorful meal is minutes away. These 12 recipes show a range from simple garlic butter to bolder citrus and Mediterranean flavors so you can pick one that fits the mood and the ingredients you have on hand. Try a couple of variations to find your favorite timing and topping, and do not be afraid to mix and match herbs, breadcrumbs, and glazes. With a few easy habits like drying scallops well and watching the clock, you will gain a reliable set of weeknight and special occasion recipes that make cooking seafood feel calm and achievable.
