A delightful seafood dish featuring tender scallops baked in a rich garlic butter sauce, perfect for any occasion.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Preheating ensures even cooking and the perfect texture for your scallops.
Rinse the scallops under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel.
Dry scallops sear better and prevent excess moisture in the dish.
Place the scallops in a buttered casserole dish in a single layer.
A single layer ensures even cooking for all scallops.
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat and stir in the minced garlic until fragrant.
Low heat prevents the garlic from burning, preserving its flavor.
Pour the garlic butter over the scallops evenly.
Ensure all scallops are coated for maximum flavor.
Sprinkle the scallops with panko bread crumbs, salt, and pepper.
Panko adds a delightful crunch to the dish.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the scallops are opaque and cooked through.
Check for doneness by ensuring the scallops are firm and opaque.
Serve the scallops hot with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
Lemon juice enhances the natural sweetness of the scallops.