Imagine sinking your fork into a perfectly golden, crispy scallop that's simultaneously tender and bursting with flavor - that's exactly what our Butter Crunch Baked Scallops promise! This mouthwatering recipe transforms ordinary sea scallops into a gourmet masterpiece that will make you feel like a professional chef, without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you're planning a romantic dinner or wanting to impress your guests, these butter-drenched, Parmesan-crusted scallops are about to become your new culinary obsession.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound sea scallops
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Ensure the oven rack is positioned in the middle of the oven for even cooking.
- Pat the sea scallops dry with paper towels. This is crucial to ensure they brown nicely and don't release excess moisture during baking.
- In a shallow mixing bowl, combine breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to distribute the ingredients evenly.
- Melt the butter in a separate small bowl. Dip each scallop first into the melted butter, ensuring it's completely coated.
- After buttering, roll each scallop in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to help the coating adhere completely to the surface of the scallop.
- Arrange the coated scallops in a single layer on a lightly greased baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching each other for even cooking.
- Drizzle any remaining melted butter over the scallops to enhance browning and add extra richness.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the scallops are opaque and the breadcrumb coating is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the scallops to finish cooking and settle.
- Garnish with additional fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately while hot and crispy.
Tips
- Always buy fresh, dry-packed scallops for the best texture and flavor. Avoid "wet" scallops that have been treated with preservatives.
- Pat scallops completely dry before cooking - moisture is the enemy of a crispy, golden crust!
- Use a light touch when coating scallops to prevent a heavy breading that masks their delicate flavor.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet. Give each scallop space to ensure even browning and crispiness.
- Watch the cooking time carefully - scallops can quickly become rubbery if overcooked. They're done when just opaque and slightly firm to the touch.
- For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika to your breadcrumb mixture.
- Serve immediately after cooking to enjoy the maximum crunch and temperature.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 290kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 65mg
