Garlic Butter Baked Scallops Recipe

Ingredients:

1 lb large scallops, patted dry

4 tbsp butter, melted

3 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup breadcrumbs

2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

1/2 tsp paprika

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 lemon, sliced (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
2. Prepare Garlic Butter Mixture:
   In a small bowl, mix the melted butter and minced garlic.
3. Arrange Scallops:
   Place the scallops in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Add Topping:
   Drizzle the garlic butter over the scallops. In another bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), parsley, and paprika. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the scallops.
5. Bake:
   Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the scallops are opaque and the topping is golden brown. For extra crispiness, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes.
6. Serve:
   Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the scallops and garnish with lemon slices and extra parsley.

Tips:

Avoid overcooking the scallops to keep them tender.

Serve with crusty bread, rice, or pasta to soak up the flavorful garlic butter.

Enjoy your delicious and elegant seafood dish!