Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

Here’s a delicious recipe for Garlic Butter Baked Scallops that you can make easily at home!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) sea scallops (about 12-16 scallops)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tsp fresh thyme)
• 1/2 tsp dried parsley (or 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Lemon wedges for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Scallops: Pat the scallops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps them bake evenly. Place the scallops in a single layer in your prepared baking dish.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined.
4. Coat the Scallops: Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over the scallops, ensuring each one is well-coated. If you are using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it over the top of the scallops.
5. Bake the Scallops: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, depending on the size of your scallops. The scallops should be opaque and tender when done, and the top should be golden and bubbly (especially if using Parmesan).
6. Serve: Once baked, remove the scallops from the oven. Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.

Tips:

• Do not overcook the scallops, or they can become rubbery. Keep an eye on them as they bake.
• Fresh scallops are ideal, but frozen scallops can be used as well. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before baking.
• For extra richness, you can drizzle a little more melted butter over the top before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Garlic Butter Baked Scallops!