Scallops are a delicious seafood treat that can be surprisingly easy to cook, especially when using your oven. If you’ve ever wondered how to cook scallops in the oven to get that perfect tender inside and slightly crispy outside, you’re in the right place! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to bake scallops like a pro, with simple steps and tasty tips.
Why Bake Scallops?
Baking scallops in the oven is a fantastic way to enjoy their natural sweetness without the fuss of pan-searing or grilling. It’s hands-off, quick, and you can easily add flavorful toppings like garlic butter, herbs, or breadcrumbs for a crunchy finish. Plus, baking ensures even cooking and helps prevent overcooking, which can make scallops rubbery.
What You’ll Need
Before you start, gather these ingredients:
– Fresh sea scallops (about 4 to 6 ounces per person)
– Olive oil or melted butter
– Garlic (minced)
– Lemon juice or lemon wedges
– Salt and pepper
– Optional: Shallots, nutmeg, parsley, Parmesan cheese, Panko breadcrumbs, red pepper flakes
Preparing Your Scallops
- Dry the scallops: Pat them thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for getting a nice caramelized crust.
- Remove the side muscle: If your scallops have a small side muscle (a little tough flap), peel it off.
- Season well: Sprinkle salt, pepper, and any other spices you like (garlic powder, lemon zest, or a pinch of nutmeg works well).
How to Cook Scallops in the Oven: Step-by-Step
Option 1: Classic Baked Scallops with Garlic Butter and Breadcrumbs
– Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
– In a bowl, toss scallops with melted butter, minced garlic, and finely chopped shallots. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.
– Transfer the scallops to a casserole dish or baking pan.
– In a separate bowl, mix Panko breadcrumbs with olive oil and Parmesan cheese (optional), then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the scallops.
– Bake for 11 to 15 minutes until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and the scallops are opaque and tender.
– Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over.
Option 2: Simple Roasted Scallops
– Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
– Place seasoned scallops on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced apart.
– Drizzle with olive oil or brush with melted butter and a squeeze of lemon juice.
– Bake for 8 to 12 minutes until scallops turn opaque and firm to the touch but still tender inside.
– Serve immediately with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
Tips for Perfect Oven-Baked Scallops
– Don’t overcook: Scallops cook quickly. Overcooking makes them tough and rubbery. Aim for a translucent center with a slight golden crust.
– Use fresh scallops: Fresh or properly thawed scallops give the best texture and flavor.
– Pat dry: Moisture is the enemy of browning, so dry your scallops well before seasoning.
– Add flavor: Garlic, lemon, butter, and herbs complement scallops beautifully. Breadcrumbs add a lovely crunch.
– Check doneness: Scallops are done when they are opaque and slightly firm to the touch.
Variations to Try
– Bacon-wrapped scallops: Wrap scallops in bacon before baking for a smoky twist.
– Tuscan butter scallops: Add sun-dried tomatoes and fresh herbs to the butter sauce.
– Miso-glazed scallops: Brush scallops with a miso and honey glaze before baking for an Asian-inspired flavor.
Baking scallops is a straightforward and rewarding way to enjoy this elegant seafood. With a few simple ingredients and the right technique, you can create a restaurant-quality dish right in your oven.
Enjoy your perfectly baked scallops with a fresh salad, crusty bread, or your favorite side dish for a delightful meal!
Perfectly baked scallops are tender, flavorful, and quick to make-ideal for any occasion.