If you adore seafood that is bursting with flavor and simplicity, then this Grilled Scallops with Homemade Garlic Butter Recipe will become your new obsession. Juicy scallops, grilled to perfection and topped with a luxurious, aromatic garlic butter made from scratch, create an irresistible combination that’s as elegant as it is easy to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just craving an impressive weeknight dinner, this dish delivers melt-in-your-mouth tenderness with a vibrant, buttery kick that’s simply unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the delicate sweetness of fresh scallops to the buttery richness of homemade garlic butter, each component is thoughtfully chosen for simplicity and amazing taste.
- 12 scallops in shell: Fresh scallops provide the tender, succulent centerpiece of this dish.
- 1/2 tbsp olive oil: Used to coat and help grill the scallops without drying them out.
- 4 tbsp garlic butter: The star topping that adds incredible richness and garlic aroma.
- 1 lemon (sliced): Adds zesty brightness and a subtle tang to brighten the flavors.
- Kosher sea salt: For seasoning perfectly to enhance natural tastes.
- 2 bulbs garlic: Roasted to create the foundation of the garlic butter.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Used for roasting garlic gently and infusing flavor.
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter: Creamy base for the garlic butter that melts beautifully over the scallops.
- 1 tbsp parsley (finely chopped): Adds a fresh, herbal note and vibrant green color.
- 2 tbsp chives (finely chopped): Provides mild oniony flavor to complement the garlic butter.
- 1 tsp chili flakes (optional): For a subtle heat that balances the richness perfectly.
- Black pepper: Freshly cracked for a light spicy kick.
How to Make Grilled Scallops with Homemade Garlic Butter Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Butter
Start by roasting the garlic slowly to bring out its natural sweetness. Peel the cloves after soaking in boiling water—this easy method loosens their skin perfectly. Then submerge the peeled garlic in olive oil and bake gently until golden brown; this step ensures a rich, mellow flavor that defines the homemade garlic butter.
Step 2: Blend the Garlic Butter
Combine the roasted garlic with unsalted butter, fresh parsley, chives, optional chili flakes, salt, and pepper—either in a food processor for smooth perfection or mashed together by hand for a rustic texture. This butter will melt over your grilled scallops, infusing them with vibrant garlic goodness.
Step 3: Prepare the Grill and Scallops
Preheat your grill to a high temperature around 200°C / 390°F and make sure the lid stays closed to keep the heat steady. Gently remove the scallops from their shells, pat dry for a nice sear, season lightly with kosher salt, then nestle them back into their shells, drizzling olive oil over each one.
Step 4: Grill the Scallops
Place the scallops with lemon slices on the grill and cook for 2 minutes on one side. Flip carefully to reveal a beautifully golden crust, then spoon a generous tablespoon of your homemade garlic butter on each scallop. Close the lid and grill another 2 minutes for buttery, flavorful perfection.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Remove scallops and lemon from the grill and squeeze the grilled lemon over the top. The final citrus burst lifts the dish, balancing richness with fresh zing. Serve immediately to enjoy the garlic butter melting over the warm scallops in every bite.
How to Serve Grilled Scallops with Homemade Garlic Butter Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like a sprinkle of finely chopped parsley or a light dusting of chili flakes add color and a subtle flavor boost without overshadowing the scallops. A few lemon wedges on the side bring brightness and let guests add extra citrus as they like.
Side Dishes
These grilled scallops pair beautifully with a crisp green salad, creamy risotto, or a buttery garlic mashed potato. The lighter your sides, the more the rich, buttery scallops stand out, making your meal well balanced and utterly satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For an impressive presentation, serve the scallops right in their shells atop a bed of sea salt or coarse rock salt. This adds a rustic, elegant touch that’s sure to wow your guests and highlight the freshness of the seafood beautifully.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover grilled scallops with homemade garlic butter recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 2 days, but it’s best to enjoy their tender texture and buttery flavor fresh if possible.
Freezing
While scallops generally freeze better before cooking, you can freeze cooked scallops if necessary. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. Use within 1 month for best quality, although texture changes may occur upon thawing.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a low oven or on a stovetop skillet over medium-low heat to avoid overcooking. Add a little extra garlic butter to keep them moist and flavorful. Avoid microwaving as it can toughen the scallops quickly.
FAQs
Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before grilling to get the best sear and texture for your grilled scallops with homemade garlic butter recipe.
What type of grill works best for scallops?
A gas or charcoal grill both work fine. The key is to have a hot grill surface for quick cooking that locks in moisture and creates a beautiful sear on the scallops.
Is the chili flakes ingredient mandatory?
No, the chili flakes are optional. They add a gentle heat that complements the garlic butter well, but you can easily omit them to keep the flavors milder.
Can I make the garlic butter ahead of time?
Yes, the garlic butter can be made a day or two in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge and bring it to room temperature before grilling the scallops for easier spreading and melting.
How do I know when scallops are perfectly cooked?
Scallops cook quickly and are done as soon as they develop a golden crust on each side and become opaque throughout, typically about 4 minutes total on a hot grill.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the mix of smoky grilled scallops with that rich, fragrant homemade garlic butter that makes this recipe an instant favorite. It’s a dish that feels fancy but comes together so effortlessly, perfect for sharing with loved ones or treating yourself to a fabulous meal at home. Give this Grilled Scallops with Homemade Garlic Butter Recipe a try—you’ll be amazed at how simple ingredients create something so unforgettable!
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Grilled Scallops with Homemade Garlic Butter Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
This grilled scallops recipe features fresh scallops cooked in their shells topped with a rich and aromatic garlic butter infused with herbs and optional chili flakes. The scallops are quickly grilled to a golden brown perfection and served with freshly grilled lemon slices, making it a perfect elegant appetizer or main course with vibrant, smoky, and buttery flavors.
Ingredients
Scallops
- 12 scallops in shell
- 1/2 tbsp olive oil
- Kosher sea salt
- 1 lemon, sliced
Garlic Butter
- 2 bulbs garlic
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp parsley, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp chives, finely chopped
- 1 tsp chili flakes (optional)
- Kosher sea salt
- Black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare Garlic for Roasting: Peel the garlic cloves by separating them from the bulbs and placing them into a heatproof bowl. Submerge the cloves in boiling hot water for 5 minutes to loosen their skins, then drain and peel off the skin easily.
- Roast Garlic: Place peeled garlic cloves in an ovenproof dish and fully submerge them in 1 tbsp olive oil, ensuring the garlic is completely covered to prevent burning. Bake in a preheated oven at 120°C (250°F) for 1 to 2 hours or until the garlic turns golden brown.
- Prepare Garlic Butter: Separate the roasted garlic cloves from the oil, reserving the oil for future use. In a food processor, blend the roasted garlic, 6 tbsp unsalted butter, chopped parsley, chopped chives, chili flakes (if using), and a pinch of kosher salt and black pepper until smooth. Alternatively, mash together using a fork in a bowl.
- Preheat Grill: Preheat your BBQ grill to high heat, aiming for about 200°C (390°F). Keep the grill lid closed while heating to maintain consistent temperature.
- Prepare Scallops: Gently remove scallops from their shells, pat dry thoroughly with paper towels, and season each with a pinch of kosher sea salt. Return the scallops to their shells and drizzle 1/2 tbsp olive oil evenly over them.
- Grill Scallops and Lemon: Place scallops in their shells along with lemon slices directly onto the hot grill. Close the lid and grill for 2 minutes until the scallops start to brown.
- Flip and Add Garlic Butter: Using a spatula, carefully flip the scallops to brown the other side. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the prepared garlic butter onto each scallop. Close the lid and grill for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the butter to melt and infuse flavor.
- Serve: Remove scallops and lemon slices from the grill. Squeeze the warm grilled lemon over the scallops for a fresh citrus finish. Serve immediately to enjoy the scallops at their best.
Notes
- The reserved garlic-infused olive oil can be stored at room temperature in a sealed glass container for up to 4 weeks and used for dressings or cooking.
- Ensure the garlic is fully submerged in olive oil during roasting to prevent burning and achieve a smooth roasted flavor.
- If you don’t have a BBQ grill, a stovetop grill pan heated to high can be used as an alternative.
- Chili flakes are optional but add a nice subtle heat that complements the garlic butter.
- Patting the scallops dry is crucial to achieve a good sear and prevent steaming on the grill.
- Keep the grill lid closed as much as possible to maintain the high temperature required for quick searing.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Seafood
