Gratinated scallops are a luxurious yet easy-to-make dish featuring tender scallops baked with a rich, golden crust of cheese, breadcrumbs, and aromatic herbs. This classic seafood recipe is perfect for special occasions or an elegant appetizer that impresses guests with its rich flavors and delicate texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Elegant and flavorful – The combination of tender scallops, crispy topping, and creamy sauce creates a sophisticated dish.
- Simple preparation – Despite its gourmet appeal, this dish is straightforward to prepare with common ingredients.
- Versatile – Can be served as an appetizer or a light main course with a side salad.
- Customizable – The topping can be adjusted to suit different tastes, from mild and buttery to garlicky and cheesy.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Fresh scallops
- Butter
- Garlic, minced
- Shallots, finely chopped
- White wine
- Heavy cream
- Parmesan cheese, grated
- Breadcrumbs
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon juice
- Salt and pepper
Directions
- Prepare the scallops – If using whole scallops, remove the muscle on the side and pat them dry with a paper towel.
- Sauté aromatics – In a pan, melt butter over medium heat and sauté garlic and shallots until fragrant.
- Deglaze with wine – Pour in the white wine and let it reduce slightly.
- Add cream – Stir in the heavy cream and cook until slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
- Assemble the dish – Place scallops in individual baking shells or a baking dish. Spoon the cream mixture over the scallops.
- Prepare the topping – Mix breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, and chopped parsley in a bowl.
- Top and bake – Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the scallops. Drizzle with melted butter and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 10 minutes or until golden brown.
- Serve – Garnish with a squeeze of lemon juice and additional parsley before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Garlic butter version – Skip the cream and white wine, and use a garlic butter mixture for a lighter, more aromatic flavor.
- Spicy twist – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne to the topping for a bit of heat.
- Cheese options – Swap Parmesan with Gruyère or Pecorino for a different flavor profile.
- Herb-infused – Try adding thyme or tarragon for an extra depth of flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Freezing – Not recommended, as scallops can become rubbery when reheated from frozen.
- Reheating – Warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving to maintain texture.
FAQs
How do I know when the scallops are done?
Scallops should be opaque and slightly firm to the touch. Overcooking can make them rubbery.
Can I use frozen scallops?
Yes, but ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
What is the best wine to use?
A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the dish well.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can assemble the dish a few hours in advance and refrigerate it. Bake just before serving.
What can I serve with gratinated scallops?
They pair well with a light salad, roasted vegetables, or a crusty baguette.
Can I use a different type of seafood?
Yes, shrimp or lobster can be used instead of scallops for a variation on the dish.
Should I remove the scallops from their shells before cooking?
If using fresh scallops in shells, you can cook them directly in the shells for an elegant presentation.
How can I make this dish healthier?
Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the cheese and butter for a lighter version.
Can I use panko instead of regular breadcrumbs?
Yes, panko breadcrumbs will create a crunchier topping.
Why did my scallops turn out watery?
Excess moisture from thawed scallops or overcooking can cause wateriness. Always pat them dry before cooking.
Conclusion
Gratinated scallops are a simple yet indulgent dish that brings out the best in seafood. With a creamy, cheesy topping and a golden, crispy crust, this dish is perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a refined meal at home. Whether served as an appetizer or a light main course, these scallops will surely be a favorite.
Print
Gratinated scallops are a decadent seafood delight, baked with a rich, cheesy crust and aromatic herbs. Perfect for a gourmet appetizer or an elegant main course.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Total Time: 25 mins
- Yield: 2–3 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Ingredients
- 6 fresh scallops
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat and sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Add scallops and sear for 1-2 minutes per side. Remove from heat.
- In a baking dish, place the scallops, drizzle with cream, and sprinkle with cheeses, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden brown.
- Drizzle with lemon juice and serve hot.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, broil for 2 minutes after baking.
- Serve with crusty bread or over pasta.