Baked scallops are a versatile and elegant seafood dish that can easily be prepared at home. Whether you’re making them for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, the combination of their tender, juicy texture and crispy, golden breadcrumb topping makes baked scallops irresistible. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making this classic dish, including some internal linking suggestions from other great recipes to enhance your culinary knowledge.
Introduction to Baked Scallops
Scallops are known for their mild flavor and tender texture, making them an excellent choice for a variety of dishes. When baked, scallops take on a beautiful golden hue while maintaining their soft, buttery center. Perfect for pairing with sides like vegetables or pasta, they’re a surefire way to elevate any meal.
For more comfort food ideas, be sure to check out our article on Smothered Chicken and Rice, which can make a hearty companion to seafood meals like this one.
This baked scallops recipe is perfect for a quick dinner or special occasion.
Choosing the Right Scallops
When preparing baked scallops, it’s essential to choose the best quality scallops available:
- Bay Scallops: Small and sweet, perfect for quick-cooking.
- Sea Scallops: Larger and meatier, offering more substantial bites.
- Opt for dry-packed scallops, which have not been soaked in preservatives and will bake more evenly.
Ingredients for Baked Scallops
Here’s what you’ll need to make baked scallops at home:
- 1 lb. of scallops (either bay or sea)
- 4 tbsp. melted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch
- ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Lemon juice from ½ a lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F.
- Prepare the Scallops: Dry the scallops using paper towels and season them with salt and pepper.
- Make the Garlic Butter: In a bowl, mix the melted butter, garlic, and lemon juice. Pour this mixture over the scallops.
- Create the Topping: Combine breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture over the scallops.
- Bake the Scallops: Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the scallops are firm and the top is golden brown.
Follow this simple baked scallops recipe for a delicious, golden-brown dish every time.
Perfect Pairings for Baked Scallops
To complement your scallops, consider serving them with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or a refreshing salad. A similar indulgent recipe you might enjoy is the Ultimate Guide to Banana Pudding Cheesecake, which makes for a great dessert after a rich seafood dish.
Tips for Success
- Dry your scallops thoroughly: This ensures that they sear properly and don’t become rubbery.
- Don’t overcook: Scallops cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to avoid a chewy texture.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for a lighter, crispier texture compared to regular breadcrumbs.
Variations on Baked Scallops
If you’d like to switch things up, here are a few variations to try:
- Herb-Crusted Scallops: Add fresh herbs like parsley and thyme to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Spicy Baked Scallops: Sprinkle red pepper flakes into the topping for a spicy kick.
- Lemon-Caper Scallops: Mix capers into the garlic butter for an extra tangy flavor.
For another creative and delicious recipe, check out our popular Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake, which brings together two classic flavors for a decadent dessert.
Try this easy baked scallops recipe today and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do you know when scallops are done?
They should be opaque and firm to the touch. Overcooking will result in a rubbery texture, so keep an eye on them.
2. Can I use frozen scallops?
Yes, just ensure they are thoroughly thawed and patted dry before baking.
3. What are some good side dishes for baked scallops?
Try roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.
Conclusion
Baked scallops are a delightful, easy-to-make dish that brings restaurant-quality seafood to your home. By following these simple tips and trying out some variations, you’ll have a delicious meal that everyone will enjoy. Explore more recipes like Smothered Chicken and Rice to expand your culinary repertoire.