Introduction
Looking for a dish that’s quick, classy, and full of flavor? These garlic butter scallops in shell are just what you need. They look elegant, taste amazing, and take only minutes to prepare.
This recipe is perfect for dinner parties, romantic nights, or any special occasion. Your guests will love the rich garlic butter flavor and beautiful shell presentation. Plus, it’s simple enough to make even if you’re short on time.
You only need a few ingredients, but the result feels like something from a fancy restaurant. The scallops bake right in their shells, soaking up all that buttery, garlicky goodness. A squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of parsley take it to the next level.
In this post, you’ll learn how to make this easy seafood appetizer step by step. Whether you’re new to scallops or a seafood lover, this recipe will impress. Let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Scallops in Shell Recipe
Quick and easy to prepare
No need to spend a long time cooking. These garlic butter scallops in shell cook in just a few minutes. The steps are simple, and cleanup is fast.
Elegant presentation for guests
Scallops served in their shells always look impressive. This dish adds a fancy touch to your table without much effort. It’s perfect for celebrations or romantic dinners.
Rich, buttery, and garlicky flavor
Each scallop is coated in warm garlic butter. The flavor is deep, rich, and full of taste. A squeeze of lemon brings everything together.
Perfect as an appetizer or light main
Serve it before the main course or as a light meal with a side salad. These scallops fit into any menu and always please the crowd.
Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor
You only need a handful of fresh ingredients. But the taste is bold and satisfying. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need (and Substitutions)
Fresh scallops in shell (or frozen alternatives)
Use fresh scallops in shell for the best flavor and presentation. If fresh isn’t available, frozen scallops in shell work too. Be sure to defrost them completely before you start cooking.
Unsalted butter and fresh garlic
Butter adds richness. Garlic gives bold flavor. Choose unsalted butter to adjust the seasoning to your taste. Always go for fresh garlic for the best taste.
Lemon juice, parsley, and optional chili flakes
Lemon juice adds brightness. Fresh parsley makes the dish look and taste fresh. Sprinkle in some chili flakes if you enjoy a bit of spice.
Salt, pepper, and breadcrumbs (optional crunch)
Season with salt and pepper to taste. For extra texture, sprinkle a few breadcrumbs on top before baking. They become nicely browned and crunchy as they bake.
Seafood broth (optional for flavor boost)
Seafood broth can boost flavor. Add it to the garlic butter for extra depth. It’s optional but worth trying.
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Bake
Clean and prep scallops in their shells
Start by rinsing the scallops in shell under cold water. Remove any grit or sand. Pat them dry with a paper towel. Set them on a baking tray.
Make the garlic butter sauce (tips for flavor balance)
Melt unsalted butter in a small pan. Add finely chopped fresh garlic and cook for one minute. Stir in lemon juice, a pinch of salt, and black pepper. Add a pinch of chili flakes if you like a bit of heat. Taste and adjust the seasoning.
Spoon mixture over scallops evenly
Spoon the hot garlic butter over each scallop. Make sure every scallop is covered well. Add a little extra for stronger flavor.
Bake or broil for golden tops
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the scallops for 8–10 minutes. You can broil them for the last 1–2 minutes to get a golden top. Watch closely to avoid overcooking.
Garnish and serve hot with crusty bread
Sprinkle chopped parsley over the scallops. Serve them right away while hot. Add lemon wedges on the side. Don’t forget a slice of crusty bread to soak up the garlic butter sauce.
Serving Tips & Perfect Pairings
How to plate scallops in shell beautifully
Place the garlic butter scallops in shell on a flat serving dish. Arrange them in a circle or neat rows. Wipe the shells clean before serving for a polished look.
What to serve with them: salads, bread, a drink of your choice
Pair these scallops with a fresh green salad or roasted veggies. Serve them with warm crusty bread to soak up the butter sauce. A glass of chilled drink of your choice, goes perfectly.
Ideal portion sizes for dinner parties
Plan for 2–3 scallops per guest if served as an appetizer. For a light main course, serve 4–5 scallops with sides. Adjust based on the size of the shells.
Garnish ideas: lemon wedges, microgreens
Add lemon wedges to the plate for extra zing. Sprinkle microgreens or chopped parsley on top for a fresh finish. These simple touches make a big difference.
Creating a full seafood platter or tasting board
For a seafood feast, add shrimp, oysters, or smoked salmon to your platter. Include sauces like aioli or cocktail sauce. This makes a fun and flavorful seafood tasting board for parties.
Garlic Butter Scallops in Shell Recipe
Garlic Butter Scallops in Shell Recipe
Ingredients
- 12 scallops in shell 3 per person
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- Optional: pinch of chili flakes
- Optional: 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs for crunch
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Clean scallops and pat dry. Leave them in their half shells.
- Melt butter in a pan over low heat. Add garlic and cook 1 minute.
- Add lemon juice, salt, pepper, and chili flakes (if using). Stir and turn off heat.
- Place scallops on a baking tray. Spoon butter mixture evenly over each one.
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top if using.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes until scallops are opaque and slightly golden.
- Garnish with parsley. Serve hot with lemon wedges and crusty bread.
Common Questions About Scallops in Shell
1. Can I use frozen scallops in shell?
Yes, you can. Just thaw them fully in the fridge before cooking. Pat them dry to remove excess moisture.
2. How do I clean scallops in their shells?
Rinse the shells under cold water. Use a small knife to remove any grit or loose parts. Always pat dry before baking.
3. How long do scallops take to cook?
Scallops in shell bake in 8–10 minutes at 400°F (200°C). Broil them for 1–2 minutes for a golden top.
4. Can I grill scallops in the shell?
Yes! Place them on the grill over medium heat for about 5–6 minutes. Close the lid for even cooking.
5. Can I reuse scallop shells?
Yes, clean them well and boil them to sanitize. Use them again for serving or decoration.
Conclusion
These garlic butter scallops in shell are simple, tasty, and look amazing. The rich garlic butter, tender scallops, and elegant shells make this recipe a true showstopper.
It’s quick to prepare and perfect for dinner parties or special nights. You don’t need to be a chef to impress your guests with this dish.
Try it at your next gathering. Your friends and family will love it!
Have you made this recipe? Leave a comment below or share your version with us.
Don’t forget to pin it, share it, or save it for later. This is one of those recipes you’ll want to come back to again and again.
With just a few ingredients, you get a dish that feels fancy, tastes amazing, and works for many occasions. It’s seafood made easy—and elegant.
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