Baked scallops are a delightful seafood dish that combines the natural sweetness of tender scallops with a crispy, buttery topping that elevates their flavor. This baked scallops recipe is not only simple to prepare but also presents beautifully, making it perfect for special occasions or a cozy dinner at home. With a creamy garlic sauce and a sprinkle of breadcrumbs, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends while satisfying your seafood cravings.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Readers will love this baked scallops recipe for its rich flavors and ease of cooking. The beautiful golden crust on top contrasts perfectly with the succulent, tender scallops underneath. It’s a quick dish that can be ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining. Plus, it’s a great option for those following a low-carb or gluten-free diet, especially if you substitute traditional breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
Tips and Tricks
To ensure your baked scallops turn out perfectly, consider these tips:
1. Freshness Matters: Always use fresh scallops if possible. Frozen scallops should be thawed completely in the refrigerator before cooking.
2. Pat Dry: Make sure to pat the scallops dry with a paper towel before seasoning. This helps them brown nicely and prevents excess moisture.
3. Breadcrumbs: Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy topping. You can add herbs or spices to the breadcrumbs for more flavor.
4. Broil at the End: For a beautifully golden crust, broil the scallops for the last couple of minutes of cooking, watching closely to prevent burning.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when making baked scallops:
1. Overcooking: Scallops cook very quickly, and overcooking them can lead to a rubbery texture. Keep an eye on the cooking time and remove them from the oven as soon as they are opaque.
2. Not Preheating the Oven: Always preheat your oven to ensure even cooking. If your oven isn’t hot enough, the scallops may cook unevenly.
3. Too Much Liquid: Avoid using too much liquid in the baking dish, as it can prevent the scallops from browning properly.
4. Incorrect Seasoning: Don’t skimp on seasoning. A little salt and pepper can go a long way to enhance the natural flavors of the scallops.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare parts of this baked scallops recipe in advance to save time:
1. Prep the Topping: You can mix the breadcrumb topping and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
2. Marinate: If you want to enhance the flavor, you can marinate the scallops in lemon juice and garlic for about 30 minutes before baking.
3. Assemble Ahead: If you’re planning to serve this dish for dinner guests, you can assemble the scallops in the baking dish a few hours in advance and keep them in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to customize this baked scallops recipe to suit your taste:
1. Cheese Lovers: Add grated Parmesan or crumbled feta cheese to the breadcrumb mixture for a cheesy twist.
2. Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like dill, basil, or parsley for a fresh flavor profile.
3. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the topping for a spicy kick.
4. Different Proteins: Swap scallops for shrimp or crab to create a different seafood experience.
How to Serve
To serve your baked scallops, arrange them on a beautiful platter, garnished with fresh parsley or microgreens for a pop of color. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an added zing. Pair the dish with a light salad, roasted vegetables, or a fluffy rice pilaf to balance the flavors and textures.
Pairing Suggestions
For drink pairings, consider a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied Pinot Grigio. If you’re in the mood for cocktails, a classic gin and tonic or a refreshing mojito would complement the scallops perfectly. For dessert, a light sorbet or fruit tart would be a delightful finish to the meal.
How to Store
To store leftovers, place the baked scallops in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, being careful not to overcook them. Freezing is not recommended, as scallops can become rubbery when thawed.
Equipment Needed
You will need a baking dish, preferably a glass or ceramic one, for even heat distribution. A mixing bowl for the breadcrumb topping and a baking sheet lined with parchment paper are also helpful. If you prefer a crispy top, a broiler pan can be used to elevate the scallops.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe vegan or allergen-friendly, you can replace scallops with grilled portobello mushrooms or even cauliflower steaks. For a dairy-free option, use a vegan butter substitute and nutritional yeast in place of cheese in the topping.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the summer, consider using fresh herbs like basil or cilantro, and in the fall, a sprinkle of nutmeg or sage in the breadcrumb mixture can add warmth to the dish. During winter, pairing it with roasted root vegetables can enhance the seasonal flavors.
Cost Breakdown
The estimated cost per serving for this baked scallops recipe is around $8-10, depending on the price of scallops in your area. To save money, consider using frozen scallops or swapping them with a more budget-friendly seafood option like shrimp.
Kitchen Hacks
To save time peeling garlic, try smashing the cloves with the flat side of a chef’s knife. This will make removing the skin much easier. You can also use kitchen scissors to snip fresh herbs directly into your breadcrumb mixture for quick and easy seasoning.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use frozen scallops? Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
How long do I bake scallops? Typically, baked scallops will take about 15-20 minutes at 400°F (200°C), but always check for doneness.
Can I make this recipe without breadcrumbs? Absolutely! You can top the scallops with crushed nuts or simply omit the topping for a lighter dish.
How To Make baked scallops recipe
Baked Scallops
Baked scallops are a delightful seafood dish that combines the natural sweetness of tender scallops with a crispy, buttery topping that elevates their flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh sea scallops
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free alternative)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat the scallops dry with a paper towel and season with salt and pepper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine breadcrumbs, melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and lemon juice. Mix well.
- Arrange the scallops in a single layer in a baking dish.
- Spoon the breadcrumb mixture evenly over each scallop.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the scallops are opaque and the topping is golden brown.
- For an extra crispy topping, turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
- Remove from the oven, garnish with additional parsley, and serve with lemon wedges.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 211Total Fat 7gSaturated Fat 4gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 2gCholesterol 62mgSodium 883mgCarbohydrates 13gFiber 1gSugar 1gProtein 25g
Easy Shrimp Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Baked scallops are a delightful culinary experience that can elevate any meal. With their delicate flavor and simple preparation, they are perfect for both seasoned cooks and beginners. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet night in, this baked scallops recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try, and savor the deliciousness that comes from the sea!
