Baked Bay Scallops
Delicious baked bay scallops with mushrooms, garlic, and fresh herbs, offering a rich, buttery flavor. Perfect for seafood lovers and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a pan and add sliced mushrooms.
- Cook, stirring, until mushrooms are wilted.
- Add chopped green onions and garlic; cook until transparent.
- Transfer the mixture to a bowl; add 2 tablespoons of butter, chopped parsley, bread crumbs, salt, and pepper.
- Spoon the mixture into a baking dish.
- Drizzle the remaining butter on top.
- Bake in a 450°F oven for 10 minutes.
- Broil for 1 minute to brown the top.
- Do not overcook.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a mix of wild mushrooms instead of just button mushrooms. If you're short on fresh parsley, dried parsley can be a good substitute, though fresh will provide a brighter taste. To enhance the dish, a sprinkle of paprika or cayenne pepper can add a bit of heat. If you want a different crunch, try using crushed crackers instead of bread crumbs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these baked bay scallops as a delightful appetizer or main dish alongside a fresh green salad for a light meal. They pair beautifully with a crisp white wine and can also be complemented by garlic bread. For a complete seafood experience, consider serving them with a side of Barbara'S Oyster Casserole for a delicious contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover baked bay scallops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the scallops rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Bay Scallops contains roughly 571 calories, with 14g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (53% of the Daily Value), iron (34% of the Daily Value), and protein (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1000mg per serving (43% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen bay scallops for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen bay scallops, but make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps prevent the dish from becoming watery. This will ensure your baked scallops are juicy and flavorful.
What can I serve with baked bay scallops?
Baked bay scallops go well with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with a light pasta dish, steamed vegetables, or a simple arugula salad. You could also pair them with crusty bread to soak up any delicious juices from the dish. A light, crisp white wine would also complement the flavors nicely.
How can I tell when the scallops are done cooking?
Scallops are done when they are opaque and firm to the touch. Since they cook quickly, keep an eye on them; overcooking can cause them to become rubbery. The baking and broiling times in this recipe should yield perfectly cooked scallops, but it's always good to check for doneness.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).