Baked Scallops are a delicious, elegant dish that combines tender sea scallops with a golden, buttery breadcrumb topping. The scallops are seasoned and baked to perfection in a rich mix of garlic, lemon, and herbs, resulting in a dish that is both light and indulgent. Perfect as a sophisticated appetizer or a main course paired with vegetables or pasta, baked scallops are surprisingly easy to prepare, making them ideal for both weeknight meals and special occasions.
Ingredients
- 1 lb sea scallops, rinsed and patted dry
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or ovenproof skillet.
- Prepare the scallops: Arrange the scallops in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. Season with salt and pepper.
- Make the garlic butter: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, white wine (if using), and lemon juice. Pour the mixture evenly over the scallops.
- Prepare the breadcrumb topping: In another small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley. Sprinkle this mixture over the scallops, covering them evenly.
- Bake the scallops: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the scallops are opaque and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown. Be careful not to overcook the scallops, as they can become tough.
- Serve: Garnish with additional parsley and serve the baked scallops with lemon wedges on the side.
Baked Scallops are an easy yet sophisticated dish, with a perfect balance of buttery, garlicky flavors and a crispy topping that complements the delicate scallops beautifully.
