Easy Garlic Butter Parmesan Baked Scallops

Name: Easy Garlic Butter Parmesan Baked Scallops
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb large scallops, patted dry; 4 tbsp butter, melted; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tbsp lemon juice; Salt to taste; Black pepper to taste; Lemon wedges for serving

By Jason GriffithPublished March 12, 2026Updated May 24, 2026Appetizer

539383670_122269339946235274_1868847638134515637_n

Tender baked scallops topped with garlic butter, Parmesan, and crispy breadcrumbs, finished with fresh lemon and parsley.

Jump to Recipe

Prep10 minutes

Cook12 minutes

Total22

Serves4 servings

Printable Recipe Card

Easy Garlic Butter Parmesan Baked Scallops

Tender baked scallops topped with garlic butter, Parmesan, and crispy breadcrumbs, finished with fresh lemon and parsley.

No ratings yet

Prep Time
10 minutes

Cook Time
12 minutes

Total Time
22

Yield
4 servings

Course
Appetizer

Cuisine
Not listed

Servings
4 servings

Calories
275 calories

Ingredients

1 lb large scallops, patted dry
4 tbsp butter, melted
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tbsp lemon juice
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.
Arrange the scallops in a single layer in a baking dish and pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over them.
In another bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley.
Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the scallops.
Bake for 10-12 minutes until the scallops are opaque and the topping is golden brown.
Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.

Nutrition

Calories275 calories

Protein23 g

Carbohydrates9 g

Fat16 g

SodiumNot listed

SugarNot listed

FiberNot listed

If you're looking for an elegant seafood dish that’s surprisingly easy to make, Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are the perfect choice. Tender scallops are baked in a rich garlic butter sauce, topped with Parmesan cheese and crispy breadcrumbs, and finished with fresh lemon and parsley for a bright, flavorful finish.

This dish delivers restaurant-quality flavor in just about 20 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or romantic date-night meals at home. The buttery garlic sauce enhances the natural sweetness of the scallops, while the golden breadcrumb topping adds a satisfying crunch.

Best of all, this recipe requires minimal prep and simple ingredients, allowing the delicate flavor of the scallops to truly shine.

Why I Love This Recipe

There are several reasons this scallop recipe is always a hit.

First, it’s incredibly quick to prepare. From start to finish, you can have this dish on the table in under half an hour.

Second, the garlic butter and Parmesan topping creates an irresistible combination of savory flavors and crispy texture.

And finally, it’s versatile enough for both casual dinners and elegant entertaining. Serve it with pasta, salad, or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Tips for Success

Pat scallops dry
Removing excess moisture helps them cook evenly.

Avoid overcrowding the pan
Give scallops space so they bake properly.

Don’t overcook
Scallops cook quickly; overcooking can make them rubbery.

Use fresh garlic and lemon
Fresh ingredients elevate the flavor of the dish.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

These garlic butter scallops pair beautifully with a variety of side dishes.

A creamy pasta like Fettuccine Alfredo – The Creamy Pasta That Became a Comfort Food Favorite creates an indulgent seafood dinner.

For a lighter option, serve with Easy Homemade Caesar Salad with Chicken.

If you're planning a casual lunch or dinner spread, The Ultimate Turkey Club Wrap for Easy Lunches adds a satisfying variety of flavors.

Refreshing sides like Easy Classic Pasta Salad for Any Gathering also pair well with seafood dishes.

And for a comforting addition to the table, How to Make Perfect Grilled Cheese with Homemade Tomato Soup is always a crowd-pleaser.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Approximate values:

Calories: 275
Fat: 16 g
Carbohydrates: 9 g
Protein: 23 g

Values may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Storage and Leftover Tips

Refrigerator:
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Reheating:
Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F until warmed through.

Avoid microwaving
Microwaving can make scallops rubbery.

Best enjoyed fresh
This dish tastes best immediately after baking.

More Recipes You’ll Love

If you enjoyed these baked scallops, try these delicious recipes as well:

Final Thoughts

These Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are a simple yet elegant seafood dish that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. With tender scallops, savory garlic butter, and a crispy Parmesan topping, this recipe brings restaurant-quality results right to your kitchen.

Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish proves that gourmet meals don’t have to be complicated.

If you try this recipe, share your results and let us know how it turned out. And don’t forget to follow Jason Griffith at Chef Maniac for more easy, flavorful recipes you can make at home.

Why You?ll Love This Recipe

This Easy Garlic Butter Parmesan Baked Scallops is built for home cooks who want a reliable Appetizer without turning dinner or dessert into a project. The ingredient list stays approachable, the method is clear, and the finished dish gives you the kind of comfort-food payoff that makes a recipe worth saving.

Because the recipe card below keeps the exact measurements and steps organized, this article focuses on the practical details that help the recipe come out better: timing, texture, ingredient choices, storage, serving ideas, and simple ways to adjust the flavor for your table.

Tips for the Best Results

Use the listed times as a guide, but remember that cookware, appliance strength, ingredient size, and starting temperature can all affect the final result. This recipe lists 10 minutes of prep time, 12 minutes of cook time, and about 22 total time, which makes it easier to plan around dinner, parties, or weekend cooking.

Season thoughtfully. Many comfort-food recipes use flavorful packaged ingredients, cheese, sauces, or seasoning blends, and those can vary in salt level. Taste when it is safe to do so, then adjust at the end. A small amount of acid, fresh herbs, black pepper, or a creamy topping can make the finished dish feel more balanced.

Easy Variations

You can adapt this recipe based on what your family likes. Keep the main method the same, then change the seasoning, topping, vegetable, or serving style. If you want more heat, add a spicy element. If you want something milder, reduce strong seasonings and finish with a creamy or fresh topping.

For a heartier version, serve it with a simple side such as rice, potatoes, salad, bread, or roasted vegetables. For a lighter version, pair it with crisp greens or fresh fruit, depending on whether the recipe is savory or sweet.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator once the food has cooled. Most cooked dishes keep well for three to four days, while many desserts keep best when covered tightly so they do not dry out.

Reheat gently when possible. A microwave is convenient for individual portions, but an oven, skillet, or air fryer can help bring back texture when the recipe has a crisp, baked, or toasted element.

What to Serve With It

This recipe makes 4 servings, so it can work as a main dish, side, dessert, or shareable recipe depending on the category. For savory recipes, pair it with something fresh or simple so the meal does not feel too heavy. A salad, roasted vegetable, bread, rice, or potatoes can round out the plate.

For sweeter recipes, serve smaller portions with coffee, milk, whipped cream, fresh fruit, or a simple scoop of vanilla ice cream. The goal is to support the main flavor rather than cover it up.

Food Safety and Doneness

Use visual cues and safe cooking temperatures when judging doneness. For meat, poultry, seafood, and egg-based recipes, an instant-read thermometer is the most reliable tool. You can review official guidance on the USDA safe minimum internal temperature chart.

For baked goods and desserts, look for the texture cues in the recipe card: set centers, golden edges, clean tester marks, or proper chilling time. Letting a recipe rest before serving often improves texture and makes slicing or plating easier.

Food Safety Source

For safe cooking temperatures and food handling basics, see the USDA safe minimum internal temperature chart.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Easy Garlic Butter Parmesan Baked Scallops ahead of time?

You can usually prepare some parts ahead of time, but follow the storage and reheating notes in the recipe for the best texture and food safety.

How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Use the storage instructions on this page when available, and reheat gently until hot.

Can I change the ingredients?

Yes. Most home-style recipes can be adjusted for taste, but keep the core cooking method and safe internal temperatures in mind when changing proteins or cook times.