Baked Bay Scallops Recipe | Easy Garlic Butter Scallops

Baked bay scallops recipe is one of the most delightful seafood dishes I have personally tried in my kitchen. The first time I prepared this dish, I was surprised by how simple yet delicious it turned out to be. Its golden crust and buttery aroma filled my home, and the taste was something truly special light, slightly sweet, and incredibly satisfying.

What makes this recipe even more unique is its versatility. It doesn’t require a professional chef’s touch; anyone can make it at home with just a few simple ingredients. Whether you are preparing it for a weekend dinner or a special family gathering, this recipe has all the qualities to become a household favorite.

History of Baked Bay Scallops Recipe

Scallops have been enjoyed for centuries, particularly in coastal regions where fresh seafood is abundant. Historically, scallops were considered a delicacy, prized for their tender texture and naturally sweet flavor. Baked versions of scallop recipes became popular in Europe and North America as an easy way to highlight the taste of the scallops without overpowering them. The use of breadcrumbs, butter, and herbs gave rise to what we now know as baked bay scallops a dish loved for its balance of simplicity and elegance.

What is Baked Bay Scallops Recipe?

The baked bay scallops recipe is a seafood dish where tender bay scallops are lightly seasoned, topped with breadcrumbs and butter, then baked until golden. Bay scallops are smaller than sea scallops, making them quicker to cook and perfect for recipes that require bite-sized portions. The dish is flavorful yet light, making it an excellent option for seafood lovers who want a healthy and tasty meal.

Why Try Baked Bay Scallops Recipe

You will love this recipe because it offers the perfect combination of ease and elegance. It’s quick to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and yet the results are gourmet-quality.These baked scallops are rich and buttery with a golden crispy topping that makes them both comforting and indulgent. Plus, they are high in protein and low in fat, so they are a healthier choice compared to many other seafood dishes.

Equipment You’ll Need

To make this recipe, you don’t need fancy tools. Here’s a simple list of equipment:

• Baking Dish To hold the scallops while baking.
• Mixing Bowl For preparing the breadcrumb mixture.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons To ensure accurate quantities of butter, breadcrumbs, and seasonings.
• Oven The main equipment needed to bake the scallops to golden perfection.
• Spatula or Spoon For mixing and serving.
  

Ingredients of Baked Bay Scallops

Here’s a complete list of ingredients you’ll need:

• 1 pound bay scallops (fresh or thawed)
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Juice of 1 lemon
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste
  

Step-by-Step: How to Bake Bay Scallops

1. Preheat Oven: Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, lightly grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This prevents scallops from sticking and ensures even baking.

2. Prepare Scallops: Gently rinse the bay scallops under cold running water to wash away any sand or impurities Then, pat them completely dry using paper towels. Removing extra moisture is important so the scallops bake evenly instead of steaming.

3. Season Scallops: Arrange the scallops in a single layer inside the greased dish. Drizzle them with a little olive oil for richness, then sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Finally, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavor.

4. Make Breadcrumb Mixture: In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs, melted butter, minced garlic, freshly chopped parsley, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until all the ingredients are coated with butter, creating a crumbly topping full of flavor.

5. Top Scallops: Using a spoon, spread the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the scallops. Make sure each scallop is well covered, as this topping will turn crispy and golden in the oven.

6. Bake Scallops: Put the baking dish in the preheated oven and let it bake for 12–15 minutes. The scallops will turn opaque and tender while the breadcrumb topping becomes crisp and golden brown.

7. Check Doneness: To test, gently press one scallop with a fork. It should feel firm yet tender, not rubbery.Scallops can turn chewy if overbaked, so watch them carefully as they finish cooking.

8. Serve Hot: Take the dish out of the oven and allow it to rest for 2 minutes before serving. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for a refreshing burst of flavor. Pair with pasta, salad, or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Nutrition Information of Recipe

• Calories: ~220 per serving
• Protein: 20 g
• Fat: 10 g
• Carbohydrates: 12 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sodium: 320 mg

(Note: Nutrition values may vary depending on portion size and ingredients used.)

How to Serve This Recipe

Baked bay scallops can be served as a main dish with pasta, rice, or fresh vegetables. They also make an elegant appetizer when paired with a light salad and crusty bread. A squeeze of lemon just before serving enhances the freshness and balances the buttery flavor.

FAQs

1. What does scallop taste like?

Scallops have a sweet, delicate flavor with a tender texture, similar to but milder than lobster or crab.

2. Can I use sea scallops instead of bay scallops?

Yes, but sea scallops are larger, so you may need to adjust the baking time slightly.

3. How do I know when scallops are cooked?

They should appear opaque and firm but still tender when pressed lightly.

4. Can I make this a healthy baked scallops recipe?

Yes, use less butter and more herbs, or substitute olive oil for butter to make it lighter.

5. Can I prepare baked bay scallops with breadcrumbs in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the dish and refrigerate it for up to 6 hours before baking.

Conclusion

The baked bay scallops recipe is the ideal mix of simplicity and flavor. With its buttery golden topping and naturally delicate scallop taste, it feels like a restaurant-quality dish that you can easily make at home. It’s not only delicious but also loaded with nutrition, making it a wholesome choice for any meal.

If you want a protein-rich recipe that’s both healthy and impressive, this one is perfect. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting guests, baked bay scallops will never disappoint. Try it once, and you’ll find yourself adding it to your list of go-to favorites in the kitchen.