Description
This Broiled Scallops recipe offers a quick and delicious way to enjoy tender sea scallops topped with a flavorful garlic butter sauce and Parmesan cheese. Perfectly broiled to golden perfection, these scallops are enhanced with fresh parsley and a splash of lemon juice for a light and savory seafood dish ideal for an elegant dinner or a simple weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Scallops and Seasoning
- 1 lb sea scallops, patted dry
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp paprika
Garlic Butter Sauce
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Toppings and Garnish
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the Broiler: Set your oven’s broiler to high and position the oven rack about 6 inches from the heat source to ensure the scallops cook evenly and develop a nice golden top.
- Prepare Garlic Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, combine melted unsalted butter, minced garlic, freshly squeezed lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and paprika, stirring well to create a flavorful sauce.
- Arrange Scallops: Lay the sea scallops in a single layer in a broiler-safe dish, making sure they are evenly spaced to allow for even cooking.
- Brush with Sauce: Generously brush the scallops with the prepared garlic butter mixture, coating each scallop to boost flavor and moisture during broiling.
- Add Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the scallops to create a savory crust as they cook.
- Broil Scallops: Place the dish under the broiler and cook for 6-8 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and the scallops are opaque in the center, indicating they are perfectly cooked.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the scallops, and serve immediately with lemon wedges to add a bright citrus finish.
Notes
- Pat the scallops dry to ensure they broil properly and develop a nice crust.
- Keep a close watch while broiling as scallops cook quickly and can overcook easily.
- Use a broiler-safe dish to avoid damage or fire hazards in the oven.
- For a spicier twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the garlic butter mixture.
- Serve immediately after broiling for the best texture and flavor.
