Name: Savory Garlic Butter Scallops
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 12 large Scallops (cleaned and patted dry); 3 tbsp Unsalted Butter (melted); 3 cloves Garlic (minced); 1 tbsp Fresh Lemon Juice; 1/2 tsp Paprika; Salt (to taste); Pepper (to taste); 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley (chopped); Lemon Wedges (for serving)

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Creamy, juicy, and bursting with garlic-butter goodness, Savory Garlic Butter Scallops are the kind of dish that feels fancy but comes together in a flash. Imagine seared golden edges, a silky garlic butter drizzle, and bright lemon finishing each bite — comfort food with a restaurant touch right at home. Fun fact: scallops were once considered a luxury item only served on special occasions, but today they’re affordable and quick enough for weeknight dinners. If you love easy seafood recipes, you’ll find this one even simpler than some pasta mains I’ve written about before, like Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine.

This recipe is special because it pairs simple technique with big flavor: minimal ingredients, minimal fuss, maximum satisfaction. It’s quick to prepare, family-friendly, and impressive enough for guests. Whether you’re feeding picky kids or hosting a date night, these scallops deliver. Ready your skillet and lemon wedges — you’re about to fall in love with dinner all over again.

What is Savory Garlic Butter Scallops?

Savory Garlic Butter Scallops — what a name, right? It practically tells you what to expect: scallops that are savory, bathed in garlic butter, and utterly irresistible. Where did the name come from? Maybe a clever cook described the aroma and the name just stuck. Who can resist something that sounds like both a hug and a high-five for your taste buds? After all, they say “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” Maybe that’s why these scallops get such glowing reviews at home. Give them a try and see if they become your go-to weeknight showstopper.

Why You’ll Love This

Bold garlic butter flavor: The main highlight is the rich, garlicky butter that soaks into each scallop, marrying sweet seafood with bright lemon and a hint of paprika.
Wallet-friendly and quick: Making scallops at home saves money compared to dining out, and the whole meal comes together in under 30 minutes — perfect for busy weeknights.
Simple, fresh toppings: A sprinkle of fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon transform the dish into something elegant and fresh without extra fuss.

Compared to heartier dishes like the Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine, these scallops are lighter and quicker but just as satisfying. Try them when you want a fast, elegant entrée. Now go make them — your taste buds will thank you.

How to Make

Quick Overview

This recipe is easy, delicious, and satisfying because it uses a handful of fresh ingredients and simple steps. You’ll get tender scallops with a lightly golden finish and a rich, garlicky butter sauce. Prep time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is 12–15 minutes, for a total of roughly 22–25 minutes.

Ingredients

12 large scallops, cleaned and patted dry
3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1/2 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon wedges for serving

Directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Arrange the scallops on a baking dish in a single layer, giving them a little space so they cook evenly.
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined. Use the exact measurements to keep flavors balanced.
Spoon the garlic butter mixture over each scallop, ensuring they are evenly coated — try to get a little butter over the top of each one.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, until the scallops are opaque and slightly golden around the edges. Do not overcook; scallops turn rubbery if left too long.
Remove from the oven and immediately garnish with fresh parsley.
Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the scallops.

Savory Garlic Butter Scallops

What to Serve With

Light, fluffy rice or lemon-herb couscous to soak up the garlic butter sauce.
A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness.
Roasted asparagus or sautéed green beans for a simple vegetable side.
Garlic mashed potatoes for a heartier meal that still complements the scallops.
A crisp, chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chardonnay to match the lemony garlic flavors.

Top Tips for Perfecting

Pat scallops completely dry: Moisture prevents browning. Use paper towels and press gently.
Don’t overcrowd the baking dish: Give scallops space for even heat circulation and better texture.
Watch the bake time closely: 12–15 minutes should be enough — check at 12 minutes to avoid overcooking.
Substitute if needed: Swap paprika for smoked paprika for a subtle smoky note, or use a mix of butter and olive oil for a lighter sauce.
Flavor boost: Add a splash of dry white wine or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for extra depth.
Avoid frozen scallops that are heavily soaked in water; opt for dry-packed scallops if possible.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Refrigeration: Store leftover scallops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the butter sauce separated if possible.
Freezing: Scallops are best eaten fresh; freezing cooked scallops can change texture. If you must freeze, place in an airtight container for up to 1 month, though quality may decline.
Reheating: Gently reheat in a low oven (275°F / 135°C) for 8–10 minutes or warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of butter. Avoid microwaving at high power, which can make scallops rubbery.

FAQs

What kind of scallops should I buy?
Choose dry-packed sea scallops if you can; they brown better and have a firmer texture. Avoid scallops that look excessively wet or have a strong fishy odor.

Can I sear scallops instead of baking them?
Yes. Sear scallops in a hot skillet with oil for 1.5–2 minutes per side until golden, then spoon garlic butter over them. Searing gives a quicker, crisp exterior.

How do I know when scallops are done?
They should be opaque all the way through and slightly springy to the touch. Overcooked scallops feel tough and rubbery.

Can I prepare the garlic butter ahead of time?
Absolutely. Mix the garlic butter up to a day ahead and keep it refrigerated. Warm it slightly before spooning over the scallops to ensure it coats evenly.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes. The mild, buttery flavor is generally a hit with kids. Omit extra lemon or spices if your children prefer very simple flavors.

Conclusion

Savory Garlic Butter Scallops are a quick, elegant dish that’s easy enough for weeknights and beautiful enough for guests. With simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and rich garlic-butter flavor, this recipe proves that impressive dinner doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. Try it alongside a light salad or creamy side and watch how fast it disappears. For more ideas on preparing scallops and variations on garlic-butter preparations, check out Seared Scallops with Garlic Butter – Dinner at the Zoo and Garlic Butter Scallops Recipe – Scallops with Garlic Butter | Hank Shaw for extra inspiration and technique tips.