When the weekend rolls around and I’m craving something a bit more special than my usual meals, crispy baked scallops always come to mind. The anticipation builds as I prepare these delightful morsels—just imagine the sound of breadcrumbs crackling in the oven and the tantalizing aroma of garlic and melted butter wafting through my kitchen. This isn’t just dinner; it’s an experience that brings a touch of elegance to any occasion, even a cozy night in.
You’d never expect that such an impressive dish could be made in just 25 minutes, right from the comfort of your home. Trust me, the combination of tender sea scallops topped with a savory, crispy layer of panko and Parmesan will leave your taste buds dancing! Whether you’re cooking for friends, family, or simply indulging yourself, this baked scallops recipe promises to be a crowd-pleaser that elevates your culinary repertoire without the fuss of a complicated process. Just grab a few ingredients, and let’s get started!
Why are Baked Scallops so irresistible?
Simplicity at Its Best: You only need a handful of ingredients to create this gourmet dish.
Quick Cooking Time: In just 25 minutes, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal on your table.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of spices, cheese, and buttery breadcrumbs brings incredible depth to each scallop.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for dinner parties or a romantic date night; everyone will be impressed by your culinary skills!
Versatile Delight: Pair with your favorite side dishes or serve as a stunning appetizer ahead of a main course.
If you’re looking to expand your seafood repertoire, this Baked Scallops recipe will become a go-to favorite that keeps everyone coming back for more!
Baked Scallops Ingredients
• Get ready to create a delightful dish!
For the Scallops
- 16 large sea scallops – fresh scallops ensure a sweet and tender bite that’s hard to resist.
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt – enhances the natural flavor of the scallops beautifully.
For the Seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper – adds a subtle heat that balances the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika – introduces a gentle smokiness to every bite.
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper – optional, but it gives a nice kick if you like it spicy!
For the Topping
- 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs – these create that irresistible, crispy texture on top.
- 4 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated – the cheese adds a rich, savory depth that elevates the dish.
- 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped – for a fresh burst of color and flavor!
For the Sauce
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted – enhances richness and promotes browning.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – helps the breadcrumbs crisp up nicely while adding healthy fats.
With these essential baked scallops ingredients, you’re all set to impress your guests and enjoy a fabulous meal that feels like fine dining right at home!
How to Make Baked Scallops
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Preheat your oven to 400°F. This ensures a hot, even cook that will help achieve a golden-brown topping.
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Dry the scallops thoroughly with a paper towel. Remove any attached side-muscle by gently pinching and tearing it away—this helps them cook evenly and enhances their texture.
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Combine the salt, pepper, paprika, cayenne, panko, Parmesan, parsley, olive oil, and melted butter in a mixing bowl. Stir well until everything is nicely mixed and clumps of bread crumbs are broken down.
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Arrange the scallops in an 8×10-inch baking dish. Once they’re all snug, cover them generously with the bread crumb mixture, ensuring each scallop is well coated for the ultimate crispy finish.
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Bake the scallops in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes. They’re ready when the topping is golden brown, and the scallops are just cooked through—watch them closely!
Optional: Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for an extra zing!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Baked Scallops Variations
Feel free to give this dish your personal touch and tailor it to your taste preferences!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute panko with gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed cornflakes for a crispy topping.
- Lemon Zest: Add fresh lemon zest to the topping mix for a bright, zesty flavor that pairs perfectly with scallops.
- Herb Variation: Swap parsley for fresh dill or basil to introduce a whole new layer of aromatic freshness that enhances the dish.
- Cheese Swap: Experiment with different cheeses, like Gruyère or crumbled feta; they can provide unique flavors and richness.
- Spicy Kick: Toss in a bit of finely diced jalapeño for an extra heat level that adds excitement to each bite.
- Nutty Crunch: Mix in some finely chopped nuts, like hazelnuts or almonds, to add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to the topping.
- Pesto Infusion: Combine 1-2 tablespoons of pesto with the olive oil for a vibrant, herbaceous twist that elevates the overall taste profile.
- Seafood Medley: Include a mix of shrimp and scallops for a delightful seafood combination that will wow your guests and broaden the flavor experience.
How to Store and Freeze Baked Scallops
Fridge: Place any leftover baked scallops in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the baked scallops in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep for about 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm up in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until heated through, ensuring they stay deliciously crispy.
Enjoy the convenience of having these flavorful baked scallops ready to go whenever you have a craving!
Make Ahead Options
Crispy Baked Scallops are a fantastic dish to prepare ahead of time, making your busy weeknights much smoother! You can dry the scallops and season them up to 24 hours in advance, storing them covered in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Additionally, you can mix the panko topping and refrigerate it separately for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply place the seasoned scallops in the baking dish, sprinkle on the topping, and bake them for 15-18 minutes until golden brown. This prep method not only saves you time but ensures your scallops remain just as delicious and tender, perfect for impressing family and friends with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Baked Scallops?
Elevate your dining experience by complementing those crispy bites with dishes that harmonize in flavor and texture.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: The creamy consistency of these potatoes offers a luxurious contrast to the crunchy scallops, making each bite a delight.
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Sauteed Asparagus: A pop of green adds freshness to the plate, while the slight bitterness of asparagus balances the richness of the baked scallops.
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Citrus Salad: A mix of vibrant greens, orange segments, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast, enhancing the sea-like flavors beautifully.
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Lemon Butter Sauce: Drizzle this tangy sauce over the baked scallops for an extra layer of flavor, elevating the dish to gourmet heights.
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Wild Rice Pilaf: The nutty and earthy notes of wild rice create a satisfying base that complements the delicate taste of scallops.
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Chardonnay: A glass of chilled Chardonnay with its crisp acidity pairs perfectly, enhancing the seafood’s flavor and adding sophistication to your meal.
Indulging in these delightful accompaniments will turn your main dish into a full, memorable feast that everyone will adore!
Expert Tips for Baked Scallops
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Choose Fresh Scallops: Always opt for fresh, high-quality sea scallops. Frozen scallops can become rubbery and lose flavor, ruining your baked scallops experience.
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Skin Drying: Pat the scallops dry thoroughly before baking. Excess moisture can prevent the topping from getting crispy, leading to soggy baked scallops.
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Even Coating: Ensure that the scallops are coated evenly with the bread crumb mixture. This guarantees a consistent crunch on every scallop.
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Check for Doneness: Keep a close eye while baking; the scallops are ready when they turn opaque and the topping is golden brown. Overcooking can lead to tough scallops.
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Customize the Topping: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings or cheeses to suit your taste preference! This flexibility adds a personal touch to your baked scallops recipe.
Crispy Baked Scallops Recipe FAQs
How do I choose fresh scallops?
Absolutely! When selecting fresh sea scallops, look for those that are firm to the touch and have a sweet, briny scent. The color should be a creamy white or pale tan. Avoid scallops with dark spots or a strong fishy odor, as these could indicate spoilage.
How should I store leftover baked scallops?
Very! Place any leftover baked scallops in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They should be consumed within 3 days for the best flavor and texture. You can also place a paper towel inside the container to help absorb excess moisture, which can keep them fresher longer.
Can I freeze baked scallops?
Absolutely! To freeze baked scallops, allow them to cool completely. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 2 months. This method helps maintain their texture and flavor for later enjoyment.
What should I do if the topping isn’t crispy after baking?
The more the merrier! If you find your topping isn’t as crispy as you’d like, there are a few tricks. Make sure your butter and oil are evenly distributed in the breading mixture and consider broiling for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
Are baked scallops safe for pets?
Very! While sea scallops are not toxic to pets, they should be avoided. The seasoning and butter used in the recipe may upset your pet’s stomach or pose health risks. If you want to share, serve them plain, and always check with your vet!
How do I know when my scallops are done cooking?
Great question! Baked scallops are ready when they are opaque and slightly firm to the touch. The topping should be golden brown, which suggests that it’s deliciously crisp. Avoid overcooking, as this can lead to rubbery scallops; they only need about 15-18 minutes in the oven.
Crispy Baked Scallops: A Simple Gourmet Delight at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F.
- Dry the scallops thoroughly with a paper towel.
- Combine salt, pepper, paprika, cayenne, panko, Parmesan, parsley, olive oil, and melted butter in a mixing bowl. Stir well.
- Arrange the scallops in an 8×10-inch baking dish and cover them with the bread crumb mixture.
- Bake the scallops for 15-18 minutes until golden brown.