Garlic Butter Baked Scallops (Tender, Juicy & Golden)

🛒 Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) sea scallops (fresh or fully thawed)
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp lemon juice (fresh is best)
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred for crispiness)
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt & black pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
• Lemon wedges for serving

🥣 Instructions

1. Prep the Scallops

• Pat scallops very dry with paper towels
• Remove the small side muscle if still attached
• Lightly season with salt and pepper

2. Make Garlic Butter

In a bowl, mix:

• Melted butter
• Garlic
• Lemon juice
• Olive oil

3. Assemble

• Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F)
• Lightly grease a baking dish
• Arrange scallops in a single layer
• Pour garlic butter mixture evenly over them

4. Add Topping

• Mix breadcrumbs + Parmesan
• Sprinkle evenly over scallops

5. Bake

• Bake for 10–15 minutes, depending on size
• Scallops should be opaque and tender, not rubbery

6. Broil (Optional but Recommended 🔥)

• Broil for 1–2 minutes for a golden, crispy top

7. Serve

• Garnish with parsley
• Serve with lemon wedges
• Best enjoyed immediately

💡 Pro Tips

• Dry scallops = better texture (very important)
• Don’t overcook—this is the #1 mistake
• Use panko for extra crunch
• Fresh garlic > garlic powder for best flavor.