Baked Sea Scallops
Baked Sea Scallops are a delightful seafood dish that combines the sweetness of scallops with a savory breadcrumb topping. Enhanced by garlic, oregano, and a hint of spice, this dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner, appealing to seafood lovers and families alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°.
- Crush crackers to fine crumbs.
- In a 2 qt bowl, mix together crumbs, parsley flakes, oregano, garlic powder, and red pepper; stir in butter.
- Add scallops and cheese, and mix well.
- Turn into individual baking dishes that have been sprayed with non-stick coating or well buttered.
- Sprinkle with paprika.
- Bake for 15 minutes.
- Serve with brown rice.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding fresh lemon juice or zest to the scallop mixture. If you don't have cheddar cheese, mozzarella or a creamy cheese like Brie makes a great substitute. For a spicier kick, increase the red pepper or add a dash of hot sauce. Use gluten-free crackers if you require a gluten-free option.
Serving Suggestions
These baked sea scallops make an elegant appetizer or main dish. Serve them alongside brown rice for a satisfying meal, or pair with a fresh green salad for a lighter option. For an impressive spread, include them as part of a seafood recipes buffet featuring dishes like Shrimp Barbecue or Crab And Shrimp Spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, place the scallops in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to prevent rubbery texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Sea Scallops contains roughly 288 calories, with 5g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (473% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (84% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. It also contributes 10g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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?
Yes, you can use frozen scallops, but ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before mixing with other ingredients. This helps prevent excess moisture during baking, which can affect texture.
What can I substitute for butter in this recipe?
For a dairy-free option, substitute with a plant-based butter or olive oil. Both will still provide the necessary fat to bind the ingredients while adding a unique flavor.
How do I know when the scallops are cooked?
Baked scallops are done when they are opaque and firm to the touch. Keep an eye on them as overcooking can make them tough. The baking time of about 15 minutes should suffice for small scallops.
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).