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Garlic Butter Baked Scallops
Alyssa

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops – tender, juicy scallops in a rich, garlicky butter sauce. Perfect as a main dish or appetizer for any occasion.
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Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb sea scallops - Ensure they are cleaned patted dry, and at room temperature before baking, as this helps them cook evenly.
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter - Melted butter yields a luxurious sauce that infuses the scallops with flavor.
  • 3 garlic cloves - Minced garlic brings a sharp aromatic quality to the dish and complements the sweet scallops beautifully.
  • 2 tablespoons lemon 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.

Method
 

  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!