Baked Scallop Casserole
This baked scallop casserole features tender, fresh scallops topped with a crunchy Ritz cracker crumb mixture. Flavored with lemon juice, salt, and pepper, it offers a rich, buttery taste that pairs well with light sides. Perfect for seafood lovers seeking a quick, elegant dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place rinsed scallops in a greased casserole dish.
- Pour milk over scallops and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
- Bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes.
- Add Ritz cracker crumbs to melted butter and mix well.
- When scallops are finished baking, remove from oven and spread crumb mixture evenly over scallops.
- Place under broiler just until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use fresh scallops rather than frozen for a more delicate flavor and texture. If you need a substitute for Ritz cracker crumbs, crushed saltine crackers or panko bread crumbs work well. To enhance the flavor, consider adding minced garlic or chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. This dish can also be made in advance and baked just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Baked Scallop Casserole pairs beautifully with a light salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. Consider serving it alongside a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc. For a complete seafood feast, browse more seafood recipes that include dishes like Vidalia Onion Seafood Casserole or Crawfish Stew to complement this rich casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, cover the casserole with foil to prevent it from drying out, and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. Avoid reheating in the microwave as it can make the scallops rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Scallop Casserole contains roughly 577 calories, with 2g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 61g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (104% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 506mg per serving (22% 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 scallops for this recipe?
While fresh scallops are recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen scallops if necessary. Ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before using to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
What can I serve with Baked Scallop Casserole?
This casserole goes well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed asparagus. A light white wine will also enhance the dining experience and complement the seafood flavors.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make Baked Scallop Casserole gluten-free, substitute Ritz cracker crumbs with gluten-free cracker crumbs or crushed gluten-free cornflakes. Always check labels to ensure that all other ingredients, like butter and milk, are gluten-free as well.
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).