Baked Scallops Recipe

Scallops: These are the star of the dish, offering a sweet and delicate flavor. Fresh or thawed scallops work best.

Butter: Melted butter adds richness and helps bind the breadcrumb topping.

Breadcrumbs: Provides a crunchy texture to contrast the tender scallops.

Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the dish with aromatic depth.

Parmesan cheese: Grated parmesan adds a savory, umami flavor to the topping.

Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the dish with a hint of acidity.

Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients.

Black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a touch of heat and complexity.

Parsley: Chopped parsley provides a fresh, herbaceous garnish.

When preparing scallops, ensure they are thoroughly dried with a paper towel before placing them in the baking dish. This helps the breadcrumb mixture adhere better and results in a crispier topping. Additionally, using freshly grated parmesan cheese instead of pre-grated can enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.

• scallops - Substitute with shrimp: Shrimp has a similar texture and mild flavor, making it a good alternative for scallops in baked dishes.

• melted butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil provides a similar richness and helps to keep the dish moist while adding a slightly different flavor profile.

• breadcrumbs - Substitute with panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs offer a lighter, crispier texture compared to regular breadcrumbs.

• minced garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used if fresh garlic is not available, though it will have a slightly different intensity and flavor.

• grated parmesan cheese - Substitute with grated pecorino romano: Pecorino Romano has a similar salty and nutty flavor, making it a good alternative to Parmesan.

• freshly squeezed lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice provides a similar acidity and brightness to the dish.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a similar level of saltiness along with a bit of umami flavor.

• freshly ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper offers a similar heat and flavor but with a slightly different aroma.

• chopped parsley - Substitute with chopped cilantro: Cilantro provides a fresh, herbaceous flavor similar to parsley but with a slightly different taste.

• Allow the baked scallops to cool to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the dish soggy.
• Transfer the scallops to an airtight container. If you have multiple layers, separate them with parchment paper to maintain the integrity of the breadcrumb topping.
• Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For optimal freshness, consume within this period.
• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the scallops in an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
• For freezing, place the cooled baked scallops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Ensure they are not touching each other to avoid clumping.
• Freeze the scallops for 1-2 hours or until they are solid. This step, known as flash freezing, helps maintain their shape and texture.
• Once frozen, transfer the scallops to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of storage time.
• Frozen baked scallops can be stored for up to 3 months. For best results, consume within this timeframe.
• To reheat from frozen, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the scallops in an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil. Heat for 20-25 minutes or until thoroughly warmed.
• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley after reheating to refresh the dish and add a burst of color and flavor.

• Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C). Place the leftover baked scallops in an oven-safe dish. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are warmed through.

• If you prefer using a microwave, place the scallops on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals until they are warm. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can make the scallops rubbery.

• For a stovetop method, melt a small amount of butter in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add the scallops and cover the skillet with a lid. Heat for about 5 minutes, turning them halfway through to ensure even warming.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 300°F (150°C). Place the scallops in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Heat for 3-5 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.

• To retain the crispy topping, you can use a broiler. Preheat the broiler on low. Place the scallops on a baking sheet and broil for 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning. This method is best for maintaining the breadcrumb and parmesan cheese crust.

• Oven: To bake the scallops at the required temperature of 400°F (200°C).

• Mixing bowl: To combine the melted butter, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, grated parmesan cheese, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.

• Baking dish: To place the scallops in a single layer for baking.

• Spoon: To evenly distribute the breadcrumb mixture over the scallops.

• Knife: To mince the garlic and chop the parsley.

• Cutting board: To provide a surface for mincing garlic and chopping parsley.

• Measuring cups: To measure out the butter, breadcrumbs, and grated parmesan cheese.

• Measuring spoons: To measure the lemon juice and any seasonings.

• Oven mitts: To safely handle the hot baking dish when removing it from the oven.

Prepare ingredients ahead: Measure and chop all ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.

Use pre-minced garlic: Save time by using store-bought minced garlic instead of mincing fresh cloves.

Melt butter in microwave: Quickly melt butter in the microwave instead of on the stove.

Preheat oven early: Start preheating your oven before you begin prepping to ensure it’s ready when you are.

Use a food processor: Speed up the process by using a food processor to mix the breadcrumb topping.