If you’ve been searching for a seafood dish that’s both elegant and unbelievably simple, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Broiled Scallops with Garlic, Parmesan, and Fresh Parsley Recipe. Imagine tender sea scallops kissed by a golden broiler, infused with the aromatic warmth of garlic, the nutty richness of Parmesan, and the fresh brightness of parsley. It’s one of those dishes that feels fancy but comes together in a flash, perfect for impressing friends or indulging yourself on any night of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role, balancing flavors and textures to deliver a culinary experience that’s as vibrant as it is comforting. From the buttery garlic infusion to the sharp Parmesan finish, everything is simple yet essential.
- Sea scallops (1 lb): The star of the dish, ensuring succulent, tender bites every time.
- Unsalted butter (3 tbsp, melted): Adds richness while carrying the garlic flavor beautifully.
- Garlic cloves (2, minced): Brings a fragrant punch that elevates the scallops’ natural sweetness.
- Lemon juice (1 tbsp): Provides a lively zest that brightens every bite.
- Salt (1/2 tsp): Enhances all the other flavors without overpowering them.
- Black pepper (1/4 tsp): Adds subtle heat and depth.
- Paprika (1/4 tsp): Imparts a gentle smoky undertone and beautiful color.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup): Melts into a golden crust with a nutty, savory character.
- Fresh parsley (2 tbsp, chopped): Adds a fresh herbal kick that perfectly balances the richness.
- Lemon wedges: For serving, letting you add extra bright tang on the plate.
How to Make Broiled Scallops with Garlic, Parmesan, and Fresh Parsley Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Broiler
Start by preheating your broiler and positioning the oven rack about 6 inches from the heat source. This placement is key to achieving that irresistible golden crust on your scallops without drying them out.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Mixture
In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and paprika. This flavorful mixture will soak the scallops through with garlicky goodness and a touch of spice.
Step 3: Prepare the Scallops
Arrange your scallops in a single layer in a broiler-safe dish. Patting them dry beforehand ensures they’re primed to absorb the garlic butter rather than steam, which is essential for a rich finish.
Step 4: Brush and Coat
Generously brush the garlic butter mixture over each scallop, making sure no scallop is left behind. This step infuses every bite with the layers of flavor we love in this dish.
Step 5: Add the Parmesan Topping
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan evenly over the scallops. As they broil, this cheese transforms into a crispy, golden topping that balances perfectly with the tender seafood underneath.
Step 6: Broil to Perfection
Broil the scallops for 6 to 8 minutes, until their tops are beautifully golden and the centers turn opaque. Keep a close eye here to avoid overcooking, since scallops can become rubbery if left under intense heat too long.
Step 7: Finish with Fresh Parsley
Once out of the oven, sprinkle the scallops with freshly chopped parsley. This final touch adds a burst of color and fresh herbaceousness that brightens the entire dish. Serve immediately with lemon wedges for that citrus punch.
How to Serve Broiled Scallops with Garlic, Parmesan, and Fresh Parsley Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh lemon wedges are your best friend here, squeezing a little over the scallops heightens their flavor with lively acidity. For an extra touch, try a light drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for mild heat.
Side Dishes
These broiled scallops pair wonderfully with simple accompaniments like a crisp green salad, roasted asparagus, or fluffy risotto. The dish is versatile enough to complement lighter sides or heartier starches depending on your mood.
Creative Ways to Present
For entertaining, serve the scallops on a bed of garlic mashed potatoes or atop toasted crostini for an elegant appetizer. You could also nestle them into small bowls with a lemon butter sauce drizzled around for a restaurant-style presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’re best enjoyed within 1 to 2 days to retain the scallops’ tenderness and fresh flavors.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for cooked scallops in this recipe since it can compromise the texture, making them rubbery upon thawing. It’s best to enjoy this Broiled Scallops with Garlic, Parmesan, and Fresh Parsley Recipe fresh for optimal taste and texture.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the scallops in a low oven (around 275°F) for 5 to 7 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can overcook them quickly and toughen the scallops.
FAQs
Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?
Yes, frozen scallops can be used, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat them very dry before cooking. This helps prevent excess moisture that could interfere with that perfect broiled crust.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
While Parmesan adds that signature nutty crust, you can experiment with Pecorino Romano or even a mild cheddar for a different but tasty twist.
Is broiling the best cooking method for scallops?
Broiling is fantastic for this recipe because it cooks the scallops quickly at a high temperature, creating a caramelized top while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
Can I prepare the garlic butter mixture ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can mix the garlic butter a few hours in advance and keep it refrigerated. Bring it back to room temperature before brushing it on the scallops for even application.
How do I know when scallops are perfectly cooked?
Scallops are done when their centers become opaque and they develop a slight golden crust on top. This usually takes about 6 to 8 minutes under the broiler. Overcooking makes them tough, so keep a close watch!
Final Thoughts
This Broiled Scallops with Garlic, Parmesan, and Fresh Parsley Recipe is a true celebration of bold, simple flavors coming together to create something truly special. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I enjoy sharing it — it’s just the sort of recipe that sparks joy and makes any meal feel like an occasion. Give it a try, invite some friends, or savor it solo for a perfect, cozy night in!
Print
Broiled Scallops with Garlic, Parmesan, and Fresh Parsley Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Broiling
- Cuisine: American
Description
A simple and delicious recipe for broiled scallops coated with a flavorful garlic butter mixture, topped with Parmesan cheese, and finished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges. Perfect for a quick, elegant seafood meal.
Ingredients
Seafood
- 1 lb sea scallops, patted dry
Butter Sauce
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp paprika
Toppings and Garnish
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Broiler: Preheat the broiler and position the oven rack about 6 inches from the heat source to ensure proper cooking intensity for the scallops.
- Prepare Garlic Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix well to infuse the flavors.
- Arrange Scallops: Place the scallops in a single layer in a broiler-safe dish to facilitate even cooking and browning.
- Brush Mixture: Generously brush the garlic butter mixture over the scallops, ensuring each scallop is well coated.
- Add Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the scallops to create a savory crust when broiled.
- Broil Scallops: Broil the scallops for 6-8 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the scallops are opaque in the center, indicating they are cooked through.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor, and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
Notes
- Ensure scallops are thoroughly patted dry to promote better browning under the broiler.
- Watch the scallops closely while broiling to avoid overcooking, which can make them tough.
- Use fresh lemon wedges for squeezing over scallops before eating to enhance the flavor.
- For additional flavor, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter mixture for mild heat.
