How to Make French Baked Scallops with Garlic Butter
French Baked Scallops with Garlic Butter is a delicious and elegant dish that’s perfect for special occasions or a delightful weeknight dinner. The combination of tender scallops baked in a rich garlic butter sauce creates a mouth-watering experience that seafood lovers will enjoy. Follow these steps to prepare this scrumptious dish.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large sea scallops
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional for topping)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your scallops will bake evenly and achieve a perfect golden color.
Step 2: Prepare the Scallops
Rinse the scallops under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. It’s important to remove excess moisture to achieve that beautiful baked texture.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well mixed.
Step 4: Arrange the Scallops
Take a baking dish and lightly grease it with a bit of butter or oil. Place the scallops in a single layer in the dish, ensuring that there’s space between each scallop for even cooking.
Step 5: Add the Garlic Butter
Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over the scallops, making sure each scallop is coated generously.
Step 6: Optional Toppings
If you choose, sprinkle breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese on top of the scallops for added texture and flavor. This step is optional but enhances the dish’s overall presentation and taste.
Step 7: Bake the Scallops
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 15-20 minutes. The scallops are done when they are opaque and have a slightly firm texture. Avoid overcooking, as this can result in a rubbery consistency.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, remove the scallops from the oven and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Garnish with additional chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Serve the scallops warm, paired with a side of crusty bread or a crisp green salad.
Tips for Perfectly Baked Scallops
- Use fresh, high-quality scallops for the best flavor.
- Ensure scallops are evenly sized for uniform cooking.
- Experiment with herbs like basil or thyme for different flavor profiles.
This recipe for French Baked Scallops with Garlic Butter is not only simple to make but also delivers a taste of gourmet dining right at home. Whether it's a special occasion or a comforting weeknight meal, this dish is sure to impress.