These easy-baked scallops have a crispy, golden-brown Parmesan coating, while the scallops are buttery and tender. Sea scallops taste heavenly when baked in the oven, and it's a simple main course or appetizer that can be made in less than 30 minutes!
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Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C). If desired, you may coat the bottom of your baking dish with the optional 2 tablespoon butter at this time.
Pat 16-20 sea scallops dry with paper towels and remove any tough side muscle, if any, by pulling it off with your fingers.
In a medium mixing bowl, combine ¼ teaspoon each, salt & pepper, ¼ teaspoon paprika, ⅛ teaspoon chipotle chili powder(if using), ½ cup Panko breadcrumbs, ⅓ cup Parmesan cheese, 2 tablespoon parsley, 2 tablespoon olive oil, 4 tablespoon butter, and the optional lemon zest if desired. Stir until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Place the sea scallops in a single layer in your baking dish and top them with the breadcrumb mixture. Sprinkle the reserved bit of Parmesan over the top.
Bake the breadcrumb topped scallops in the oven for 15-18 minutes, or until golden-brown.
Notes
For tips on choosing the best scallops, check out our informational post all about scallops.
The side-muscle is much tougher than the meat of the scallop, and is typically crescent shaped.
The scallops are done when the crust is golden-brown and the scallops are opaque throughout. Overcooking scallops can make them rubbery.