Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

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## **Step-by-Step Instructions:**

### **1. Preheat the Oven**
Preheat your oven to **400°F (200°C)**. This is the perfect temperature to bake the scallops to perfection—tender on the inside and slightly golden on top.

### **2. Prepare the Scallops**
If you’re using fresh scallops, **pat them dry** with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps ensure they bake beautifully and don’t turn out watery. Arrange the scallops in a single layer on a baking dish or oven-safe skillet.

### **3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce**
In a small saucepan, melt **butter** over medium heat. Once melted, add the **minced garlic** and sauté for about **1 minute**, just until fragrant (be careful not to burn the garlic). Stir in the **lemon juice**, **lemon zest**, and a pinch of **paprika** (if using) for added color and flavor. Season with **salt** and **black pepper** to taste.

### **4. Coat the Scallops**
Pour the **garlic butter sauce** evenly over the scallops. Use a spoon to make sure each scallop is nicely coated in the sauce.

### **5. Bake the Scallops**
Place the baking dish or skillet in the preheated oven. Bake for **10-12 minutes**, or until the scallops are cooked through. They should be opaque and easily flake apart when tested with a fork. If you want a slightly crispy top, you can broil the scallops for an additional **1-2 minutes** at the end of baking, but be careful not to overcook them.

### **6. Add Finishing Touches**
Once the scallops are done, remove the dish from the oven. **Sprinkle fresh parsley** over the top for a burst of color and flavor. If you like, you can also add a generous sprinkle of **grated parmesan cheese** before baking for a crispy, cheesy topping.

### **7. Serve and Enjoy**
Serve the garlic butter baked scallops immediately. They’re perfect on their own or paired with a light salad, roasted vegetables, or a bed of pasta. A side of crusty bread will allow you to scoop up the **garlic butter sauce**, ensuring none of it goes to waste!

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## **Pro Tips for Perfect Scallops Every Time**

**Don’t Overcook Them** – Scallops cook quickly, and overcooking them will result in a rubbery texture. Keep an eye on them as they bake, and remove them from the oven as soon as they’re opaque and tender.

**Pat Dry** – To get a nice sear or even cooking, it’s important to **pat the scallops dry** before baking. This helps to prevent excess moisture from steaming them, ensuring a more flavorful result.

**Fresh vs. Frozen** – While fresh scallops are always ideal, frozen scallops can work in a pinch. Just be sure to **thaw them completely** in the fridge before cooking, and pat them dry well to avoid excess water in the pan.

**Customize the Flavor** – While the garlic butter sauce is a classic, feel free to get creative with other flavor combinations. You can add a pinch of **crushed red pepper flakes** for heat, a splash of **white wine** for depth, or a little **balsamic glaze** for sweetness.

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## **Why Garlic Butter Baked Scallops Are Perfect for Any Occasion**

Garlic butter baked scallops aren’t just a treat for special occasions—they’re an elegant way to elevate any meal. Here are some ideas on when to enjoy this delicious recipe:

– **Romantic Dinners:** Scallops are an elegant choice for a romantic evening, and this dish is a great way to show someone you care without hours of preparation.
– **Special Occasions:** Perfect for celebrations like birthdays, anniversaries, or holidays, these scallops will impress guests and leave them talking about the meal long after it’s over.
– **Weeknight Indulgence:** While this dish feels gourmet, it’s quick enough to enjoy on a weeknight when you want to treat yourself to something special.
– **Appetizer or Main Course:** Serve these scallops as an elegant appetizer, or make them the star of the meal by pairing them with your favorite side dishes.

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## **Final Thoughts**

**Garlic butter baked scallops** are an incredibly simple yet **elegant dish** that anyone can prepare at home. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a meal that’s **full of flavor** and sure to impress. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just treating yourself to a luxurious dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

So, the next time you’re craving seafood that’s both **sophisticated** and **easy to prepare**, look no further than garlic butter baked scallops. Enjoy every bite!