Tender baked scallops nestled in their shells, bathed in a vibrant green garlic herb butter, lightly broiled to perfection and served with lemon wedges for a zesty finish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This elegant dish combines simplicity and sophistication, making it perfect for both dinner parties and special home meals. The scallops are enhanced with aromatic herbs and zesty lemon, creating a fresh and flavorful bite every time. Using the scallop shells as natural serving vessels adds a beautiful presentation, making this recipe as impressive as it is delicious. It’s a gourmet experience that doesn’t require professional skills—just quality ingredients and a few simple steps.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

6 fresh scallops, cleaned and in shell
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
2 cloves garlic, finely minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Lemon wedges, to serve

directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and set a rack to the top position for broiling.
In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with garlic, parsley, basil, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Place each scallop back into its cleaned shell and spoon a generous amount of the herb butter mixture on top.
Arrange the scallops on a baking tray, ensuring they remain level to prevent butter spillage.
Bake for 8–10 minutes or until the scallops are opaque and the butter is sizzling.
Switch the oven to broil, and broil for 1–2 minutes until the tops just start to brown slightly.
Remove from the oven and let rest for 1 minute. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 2 as a main course or 3–4 as an appetizer.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes

Variations

Herb options: Substitute thyme or dill for parsley and basil for a different aromatic profile.
Spicy twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the herb butter for a subtle heat.
Cheesy finish: Sprinkle with grated Parmesan before broiling for a savory crust.
Grill instead of bake: Grill the scallops in their shells over medium-high heat until just cooked through for a smoky flavor.
Wine infusion: Add a splash of white wine to the butter mixture before spooning over the scallops.

storage/reheating

Store any leftover scallops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5–7 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it may result in a rubbery texture. These are best enjoyed fresh for optimal flavor and texture.

FAQs

What type of scallops should I use for this recipe?

Use fresh sea scallops with their shells, ideally purchased from a reputable seafood market. Ask your fishmonger to clean them if needed.

Can I use frozen scallops?

Yes, but ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before preparing. Frozen scallops without shells can be placed in oven-safe ramekins for a similar presentation.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

You can prepare the herb butter and clean the scallops ahead. Assemble the scallops with butter just before baking to maintain freshness.

What can I use instead of scallop shells?

Oven-safe ceramic or porcelain ramekins make a great substitute if shells aren’t available.

How do I know when scallops are cooked?

Scallops are done when they turn opaque and firm up slightly. Avoid overcooking, as they can become tough.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, but use them sparingly—about one-third the amount of fresh herbs, as dried herbs are more concentrated.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Light salads, crusty bread, or a chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complement the scallops beautifully.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, it is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure any accompaniments, like bread, are also gluten-free if needed.

Can I add breadcrumbs for texture?

Yes, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs mixed with a bit of melted butter over the scallops before broiling for a crisp topping.

What should I do with leftover herb butter?

Use it on grilled vegetables, steaks, or spread it on warm bread for a quick and flavorful treat.

Conclusion

Garlic Herb Butter Scallops in Shell is a luxurious yet simple seafood dish that brings gourmet dining to your home kitchen. With its rich, buttery flavor and refreshing herbal notes, it’s perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a special dinner with minimal fuss. Whether served as an appetizer or main course, it’s sure to be a memorable favorite.