With an impressive 4.5-star rating from over 1,255 home cooks, this baked scallops recipe proves itself as a true culinary treasure. Indeed, these golden, butter-rich scallops transform into an elegant dinner that’s surprisingly quick to prepare, requiring just 50 minutes from start to finish.
You’ll discover how to bake scallops to perfection at 400°F, creating a delightfully crispy topping made with panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. Specifically designed for large sea scallops, this oven-baked method ensures each serving delivers a protein-packed meal with 31g of protein. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting guests, this recipe serves 4 people and promises restaurant-quality results in your own kitchen.
This guide will walk you through each step of creating these succulent scallops, from selecting the best dry-packed scallops to achieving that perfect golden-brown crust. You’ll learn the exact temperature, timing, and techniques needed to make this seafood dish shine.
Table of Contents
Essential Tips for Perfect Oven Baked Scallops
Let’s dive into the essential tips that will help you create perfectly baked scallops every time. First, selecting the right scallops is crucial – look for “dry” scallops rather than “wet” ones. Dry scallops have a slightly tan or pinkish color and feel sticky to touch, while wet scallops appear unnaturally white and often release excess water during cooking.
Particularly important is the preparation process. Before you start cooking, ensure your scallops are completely dry by patting them with paper towels. Furthermore, bringing them to room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking will help them cook more evenly.
Here are the key preparation steps that will set you up for success:
- Remove the small side muscle (if still attached) as it can be tough when cooked
- Season scallops just before cooking to prevent moisture from being drawn out
- Ensure your baking dish is preheated along with the oven
- Space scallops at least 1 inch apart to prevent steaming
Temperature control is essential for perfectly baked scallops. Preheat your oven to 400°F and maintain this temperature throughout cooking. Additionally, position your oven rack in the middle position to ensure even heat distribution.
Timing is another critical factor in achieving the perfect texture. Your scallops should be done in approximately 12-15 minutes, depending on their size. You’ll know they’re ready when the top is golden brown and the center is just opaque. Importantly, avoid overcooking as this can make your scallops tough and rubbery.
One common mistake to avoid is moving or flipping the scallops while they’re baking. Let them cook undisturbed to develop that beautiful golden crust. Moreover, if you’re adding any toppings or breadcrumbs, wait until the last 5 minutes of cooking to prevent burning.
For the best results, consider these final technical points: your baking dish should be shallow enough to prevent the scallops from swimming in their juices, and the bottom should be just lightly coated with butter or oil. Altogether, these tips will help you achieve restaurant-quality baked scallops with a perfectly caramelized exterior and tender, juicy interior.
Read also: Can you eat Raw Scallops?
Kitchen Equipment Needed for Baked Scallops
First of all, gathering the right kitchen equipment is crucial for creating perfectly baked scallops. Your kitchen arsenal should include both basic and specialized tools to ensure the best results.
Here’s your essential equipment checklist:
- A shallow baking dish or gratin dish (preferably ceramic or glass)
- Paper towels for patting scallops dry
- A reliable oven thermometer to maintain precise temperature
- Measuring spoons and cups for accurate ingredient portions
- A sharp knife for removing side muscles
- Mixing bowls for preparing toppings
- A pastry brush for butter application
- Heavy-duty aluminum foil (optional for covering)
The most important piece in your arsenal is undoubtedly the baking dish. Generally, a 9×13-inch shallow dish works perfectly for a standard recipe serving 4-6 people. Obviously, the dish should have slightly raised sides to contain the butter and juices without being so deep that the scallops steam instead of bake.
Consequently, the material of your baking dish matters significantly. A ceramic or glass dish distributes heat evenly and helps achieve that coveted golden-brown crust. Accordingly, avoid using metal pans as they can react with acidic ingredients and potentially affect the taste.
Your measuring tools need to be accurate as precise measurements are key to achieving the right butter-to-breadcrumb ratio. A set of measuring spoons and cups will ensure you’re adding the correct amounts of seasonings and toppings.
A good-quality pastry brush is essential for evenly coating the scallops with melted butter. Silicone brushes are preferable as they’re heat-resistant and easy to clean. Straightaway, you’ll notice how this tool helps achieve an even golden finish on your baked scallops.
For temperature control, an oven thermometer proves invaluable. Even if your oven has a built-in temperature display, a separate thermometer helps verify the actual temperature, ensuring your scallops bake at the perfect 400°F.
Notwithstanding the basic equipment, some optional tools can make your cooking experience more enjoyable. A microplane grater for fresh Parmesan cheese or citrus zest can elevate your dish. Similarly, having small prep bowls helps organize your ingredients before cooking, making the process more streamlined.
Remember that quality equipment doesn’t necessarily mean expensive. Focus on durability and functionality rather than brand names. These tools will serve you well not only for baked scallops but also for many other seafood dishes in your culinary repertoire.
Read also: Smoked Scallops Recipe
Baked Scallops Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 portions 1x
Description
Tender sea scallops baked to golden perfection under a crispy, buttery topping create an impressive main dish that’s ready in just 30 minutes. This foolproof recipe combines simple ingredients with expert techniques to deliver restaurant-quality results right in your home kitchen.
This classic baked scallops recipe features fresh sea scallops crowned with a crispy panko breadcrumb topping and baked in a flavorful butter-wine sauce. The dish strikes an ideal balance between elegant and easy, making it perfect for both special occasions and weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 pound sea scallops, side muscle removed
- 2–3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Remove the small side muscle from each scallop and pat them completely dry with paper towels.
- Brush each scallop with melted butter on both sides.
- Place scallops in a single layer in your prepared baking dish.
- In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and seasonings.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the scallops.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until scallops reach an internal temperature of 125-130°F.
- Optional: For extra browning, broil for 2-3 minutes until topping turns golden.
Notes
– Season scallops on both sides for maximum flavor
– Make sure all scallops are similar in size for even cooking
– Serve immediately with lemon wedges and melted butter on the side
– For best results, avoid moving scallops while baking
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Seafood
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Wine Pairing and Serving Suggestions
First of all, selecting the perfect wine pairing can elevate your baked scallops from delicious to extraordinary. A crisp white wine complements the delicate sweetness of your oven baked scallops perfectly. Here are some excellent wine choices:
- Chablis or unoaked Chardonnay
- Pinot Grigio
- Sauvignon Blanc
- Dry Riesling
- Champagne or Prosecco
When serving your baked scallops, presentation plays a crucial role in the dining experience. Therefore, consider plating them on warmed dishes to maintain their ideal serving temperature. You can garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, and add a wedge of lemon for both visual appeal and flavor enhancement.
As well as wine, your baked scallops deserve thoughtful accompaniments. Light, fresh side dishes work best to complement without overwhelming the scallops’ subtle flavors. Ideal accompaniments include:
A bed of angel hair pasta tossed with olive oil and herbs makes an elegant foundation for your scallops. In fact, the pasta can soak up the delicious butter sauce, creating a complete and satisfying meal.
Certainly, a fresh green salad with a light citrus vinaigrette offers a perfect contrast in texture and temperature. Meanwhile, roasted asparagus or sautéed green beans provide color and nutritional balance to your plate.
For a more substantial meal, consider serving your baked scallops alongside risotto or quinoa. These grains can absorb the flavorful sauce while adding their own subtle taste to the dish.
Timing is essential when serving scallops. They’re best enjoyed immediately after coming out of the oven, while the breadcrumb topping remains crispy and the interior is perfectly tender.
Pro tip: Have your side dishes ready before the scallops finish baking.
For casual entertaining, you might consider serving these oven baked scallops as an appetizer. In this case, plan on 2-3 scallops per person and arrange them on small plates with a simple garnish. This approach works particularly well for dinner parties where you want to impress without overwhelming your guests.
Remember that temperature contrast can enhance the dining experience. Serving your roasted scallops with a chilled glass of wine and room-temperature sides creates an interesting interplay of temperatures that keeps each bite interesting.
For family-style serving, place your baking dish directly on the table (on a protective trivet, of course), allowing guests to serve themselves. This casual approach creates a warm, inviting atmosphere while ensuring the scallops stay at their optimal temperature.
You may like: Sous Vide Scallops Recipe
Health Benefits of Baked Scallops
Essentially, baked scallops offer numerous health benefits while being a delicious addition to your diet. Unlike fried seafood options, oven baked scallops retain most of their natural nutrients since this cooking method requires minimal added fats.
Your body can benefit from these nutrient-rich shellfish in several ways. Primarily, scallops are an excellent source of high-quality protein, making them ideal for muscle maintenance and growth. A single serving of baked scallops provides these essential nutrients:
- Lean protein for muscle building
- Vitamin B12 for nerve function
- Omega-3 fatty acids for heart health
- Magnesium for energy production
- Potassium for blood pressure regulation
- Zinc for immune system support
- Selenium for thyroid function
Notably, when you prepare scallops in the oven using our baked scallops recipe, you’re choosing a heart-healthy cooking method. The gentle heat of baking preserves the delicate omega-3 fatty acids that support cardiovascular health. Furthermore, this cooking technique requires minimal added fats compared to pan-frying or deep-frying methods.
Speaking of weight management, baked scallops make an excellent choice for your healthy eating plan. Consider this comparison of protein sources:
| Food (3 oz serving) | Calories | Protein | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|
| Baked Scallops | 90 | 17g | 1g |
| Chicken Breast | 140 | 26g | 3g |
| Salmon | 177 | 19g | 11g |
Unquestionably, the low-calorie, high-protein nature of scallops makes them an excellent choice for those watching their caloric intake. The protein content helps you feel satisfied longer, potentially reducing overall calorie consumption throughout the day.
Regarding digestibility, oven baked scallops are among the most easily digestible seafood options. Their tender texture, especially when properly baked, makes them suitable for people who might find other proteins challenging to digest.
Inasmuch as mineral content is concerned, scallops provide an impressive array of essential minerals. These nutrients play vital roles in various bodily functions, from maintaining strong bones to supporting proper nerve function. The minerals in scallops are particularly well-absorbed by your body due to their natural form.
Forthwith, it’s worth mentioning that the baking method we’ve outlined in our recipe helps preserve these nutritional benefits. By avoiding excessive heat or oil, you’re ensuring that these delicate nutrients remain intact. The gentle heat of oven baking at 400°F creates the perfect environment for maintaining both flavor and nutritional value.
Above all, incorporating baked scallops into your meal rotation can contribute to a varied and nutritious diet. Their combination of high-quality protein, essential minerals, and heart-healthy fats makes them an excellent choice for anyone looking to improve their dietary habits while enjoying delicious meals.
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional profile of your baked scallops helps you make informed decisions about incorporating this seafood into your meal planning. Let’s break down the nutritional content of a typical serving of this delightful dish.
A standard serving (4 ounces) of these oven baked scallops provides the following nutritional values:
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 140 | – |
| Protein | 27g | 54% |
| Total Fat | 2g | 3% |
| Saturated Fat | 0.5g | 2.5% |
| Cholesterol | 55mg | 18% |
| Sodium | 580mg | 24% |
| Total Carbohydrates | 5g | 2% |
| Dietary Fiber | 0g | 0% |
Primarily, the nutritional composition varies based on your preparation method. Nevertheless, when following this baked scallops recipe, you’re choosing a cooking technique that maintains the natural nutritional profile while adding minimal extra calories from the breadcrumb topping.
Considering the micronutrient content, your serving of baked scallops delivers these essential vitamins and minerals:
- Vitamin B12: 20% DV
- Iron: 15% DV
- Magnesium: 12% DV
- Phosphorus: 25% DV
- Zinc: 18% DV
- Selenium: 35% DV
Subsequently, it’s worth noting that the breadcrumb topping adds approximately 30-40 calories per serving, depending on the amount used. Although this increases the total calorie count slightly, it contributes to a more satisfying texture and flavor profile.
Regarding portion control, a typical serving size ranges from 4-6 large scallops (about 4 ounces). This portion provides enough protein to meet roughly 54% of your daily requirements, making it an excellent choice for maintaining muscle mass and supporting overall health.
The caloric distribution in your baked scallops serving follows this pattern:
- Protein: 77% of total calories
- Fats: 13% of total calories
- Carbohydrates: 10% of total calories
Henceforth, when planning your meal, remember that this nutritional profile makes baked scallops an excellent choice for various dietary approaches, including:
- High-protein diets
- Low-carb eating plans
- Mediterranean-style diets
- Pescatarian meal plans
The sodium content deserves special attention, as it can vary based on your seasoning choices. To maintain lower sodium levels, you might consider reducing added salt and relying more on herbs and lemon juice for flavoring.
Essentially, the nutritional value of your baked scallops can be affected by serving accompaniments. For instance, serving them over a bed of whole grain pasta or alongside roasted vegetables can create a more nutritionally complete meal while keeping the overall calorie count reasonable.
For those tracking macronutrients, it’s noteworthy that scallops provide one of the highest protein-to-calorie ratios among seafood options. This makes them particularly valuable for anyone focusing on lean protein sources while managing their caloric intake.
The cholesterol content, while present, falls within acceptable dietary guidelines when consumed as part of a balanced diet. Moreover, the omega-3 fatty acids present in scallops help offset concerns about cholesterol by supporting healthy lipid profiles.
References:
– Eat This Much
– Healthline
Conclusion
Baked scallops stand out as a remarkable dish that combines elegant dining with practical preparation. Through proper technique and the right equipment, you’ll create restaurant-quality scallops right in your kitchen. These golden-crusted delicacies offer impressive nutritional benefits while remaining simple enough for weeknight dinners.
Whether served as an elegant main course with wine or as part of a healthy meal plan, these baked scallops deliver consistent results. The combination of crispy topping and tender interior makes each bite memorable, while the lean protein content supports your health goals.
Remember that success lies in the details – selecting quality scallops, maintaining proper temperature, and timing your bake perfectly. After mastering these fundamentals, you’ll find this recipe becomes a trusted addition to your cooking repertoire, ready to impress family and guests alike.
