Scallops With Mushrooms In Shells
Succulent scallops paired with savory mushroom filling in shells, perfect for elegant appetizers or special occasions with rich buttery and herbal flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 450°F.
- Melt 1/4 cup of butter in a small skillet and add the sliced mushrooms.
- Cook, stirring often, until mushrooms are wilted and release their liquid.
- Add finely chopped shallots and garlic to the skillet and cook briefly.
- Spoon the mushroom mixture into a mixing bowl and let cool briefly.
- Add 2 tablespoons of remaining butter, scallops, bread crumbs, parsley, salt, and pepper. Blend well.
- Use the mixture to fill 6 seafood shells and arrange them on a baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven until heated through and golden on top, about 10-12 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of the scallops, consider adding a splash of white wine to the mushroom mixture while cooking. If you don't have fresh shallots, you can substitute with finely chopped onions. For a gluten-free option, replace the bread crumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or cornmeal. Always use fresh scallops for the best taste and texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these scallops in shells alongside a light salad, such as a simple green salad or the Special Shrimp Pasta Salad for a refreshing contrast. A glass of chilled white wine pairs beautifully with this dish, enhancing the seafood flavors. You could also include some crusty bread to soak up any remaining butter sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the scallops in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 8-10 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the scallops rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Scallops With Mushrooms In Shells contains roughly 699 calories, with 18g protein, 97g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (45% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (40% of the Daily Value), and protein (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1020mg per serving (44% 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?
Yes, you can use frozen scallops, but make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking. Frozen scallops may release more water, so pat them dry to achieve a nice sear and prevent excess moisture in the dish.
What type of mushrooms work best in this recipe?
While the recipe calls for standard mushrooms, you can experiment with other varieties such as cremini or shiitake for a deeper flavor. Just ensure they're thinly sliced to cook evenly and blend well with the other ingredients.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, fill the shells and bake as directed. This makes it a great option for entertaining or special occasions.
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).