Garlic Butter Baked Scallops
Ingredients
- 1 lbsea scallops - Ensure they are cleaned (patted dry, and at room temperature before baking, as this helps them cook evenly.)
- 4 tablespoonsunsalted butter - Melted butter yields a luxurious sauce that infuses the scallops with flavor.
- 3garlic cloves - Minced garlic brings a sharp (aromatic quality to the dish and complements the sweet scallops beautifully.)
- 2 tablespoonslemon juice - Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds brightness and balances the richness of the butter.
- —Garnish (optional - Fresh parsley for color and a lemon wedge for extra zest when serving.)
Instructions
- 1
Preheat your oven: Begin by preheating the oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the scallops cook evenly and thoroughly.
- 2
Prepare your baking dish: Grease a small baking dish with cooking spray or a little melted butter to prevent sticking. This will help keep the scallops beautifully intact when serving.
- 3
Mix the garlic butter: In a medium bowl, combine 4 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter, 3 minced garlic cloves, and 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice. Stir well until combined for a flavorful garlic butter sauce.
- 4
Arrange the scallops: Place 1 lb of cleaned sea scallops in a single layer in the greased baking dish. Make sure they are not overcrowded to allow proper cooking.
- 5
Drizzle with garlic butter: Generously drizzle the prepared garlic butter mixture over the scallops, ensuring each one is well coated. This is essential for flavor penetration.
- 6
Bake the scallops: Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the scallops are opaque in the center and have a slightly golden hue. Avoid overcooking as this can result in tough scallops.
- 7
Serve immediately: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley and a lemon wedge. Enjoy your delectable garlic butter baked scallops warm, allowing the heavenly aromas to captivate your guests!