Can you provide some recipes for baked stuffed scallops?

Scallops are an exquisite seafood delicacy, admired for their tender, succulent texture and mildly sweet flavor. When baked and stuffed, these ocean gems transform into an irresistible dish that combines luxury with simplicity. Whether you're hosting a special dinner or simply indulging in a gourmet meal at home, baked stuffed scallops can be a showstopper on the dining table. This blog will dive into a few versatile and delicious recipes for baked stuffed scallops, offering a range of flavors and techniques to suit your taste and preferences.

Why Baked Stuffed Scallops?

Scallops are known for their quick cooking time and ability to absorb different flavors without losing their natural sweetness. Stuffing scallops adds depth and texture, enhancing their flavor profile while ensuring a moist and tender bite. Baking is a gentle cooking method that allows the scallops to retain moisture while the stuffing becomes crisp and flavorful. The combination of crunchy stuffing with juicy scallops is what makes this dish so appealing.

Let’s explore three fantastic recipes to inspire you: Classic Baked Stuffed Scallops, Mediterranean-Style Stuffed Scallops, and a Keto-Friendly Version for those seeking a healthier alternative.

1. Classic Baked Stuffed Scallops

This classic recipe is a crowd-pleaser, with buttery breadcrumbs, garlic, and herbs creating a fragrant and savory stuffing.

Ingredients:

12 large sea scallops

1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)

4 tablespoons butter, melted

3 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup parsley, finely chopped

1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

1/2 teaspoon paprika

1 lemon, juiced and zested

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish and arrange the scallops in a single layer.

Prepare the Stuffing: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, melted butter, garlic, parsley, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, lemon zest, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well until the mixture is evenly moistened.

Stuff the Scallops: Spoon the breadcrumb mixture over each scallop, pressing down slightly to ensure it sticks to the top. Make sure the scallops are well-coated but not overwhelmed by the stuffing.

Bake: Bake the scallops in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes or until the scallops are opaque and the stuffing is golden brown.

Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon. Serve hot with a side of rice or a crisp green salad.

This classic recipe delivers perfectly cooked scallops with a flavorful, crispy stuffing that’s rich and satisfying. It’s an ideal choice for a special dinner or as an elegant appetizer for a larger meal.

2. Mediterranean-Style Baked Stuffed Scallops

For those looking to add a twist to the traditional recipe, a Mediterranean version offers a bright, zesty flavor with ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese. This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy bold flavors that pair wonderfully with seafood.

Ingredients:

12 sea scallops

1 cup breadcrumbs

2 tablespoons sun-dried tomatoes, chopped

1/4 cup Kalamata olives, chopped

2 tablespoons feta cheese, crumbled

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 tablespoon capers

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Fresh basil or oregano for garnish

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.

Prepare the Mediterranean Stuffing: In a bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, feta cheese, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, capers, and red pepper flakes. The stuffing should be well-mixed and slightly crumbly.

Stuff the Scallops: Arrange the scallops in the prepared baking dish. Spoon the Mediterranean stuffing over each scallop, ensuring an even distribution of ingredients like the olives and feta cheese.

Bake: Bake the scallops for 15-18 minutes, or until the scallops are just opaque and the stuffing is crispy and golden.

Serve: Garnish with fresh basil or oregano, and serve the scallops alongside couscous or a light tomato salad for a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal.

This variation brings out the sweetness of the scallops while adding the tang of sun-dried tomatoes and the briny flavor of olives and capers. The feta cheese adds a creamy richness, balancing the bold flavors beautifully.

3. Keto-Friendly Baked Stuffed Scallops

For those on a low-carb or keto diet, this recipe offers a delicious way to enjoy stuffed scallops without the use of breadcrumbs or high-carb ingredients. Instead, a blend of almond flour, Parmesan, and herbs makes for a crunchy, satisfying topping.

Ingredients:

12 sea scallops

1/2 cup almond flour

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

3 tablespoons butter, melted

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon onion powder

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a greased baking dish.

Prepare the Keto Stuffing: In a small bowl, combine the almond flour, Parmesan, butter, garlic, parsley, lemon juice, black pepper, and onion powder. The mixture should resemble coarse crumbs.

Stuff the Scallops: Place the scallops in the baking dish. Divide the almond flour mixture evenly over each scallop, pressing down lightly to help it adhere.

Bake: Bake the scallops for 15-18 minutes, until the scallops are cooked through and the keto-friendly stuffing is golden brown and crispy.

Serve: These scallops pair wonderfully with a simple green vegetable, such as sautéed spinach or steamed asparagus, for a complete keto-friendly meal.

This version allows you to enjoy the indulgence of stuffed scallops without the carbs, while still offering a crunchy, flavorful topping. The almond flour provides a rich, nutty flavor that complements the Parmesan and garlic beautifully.

Tips for Perfect Baked Stuffed Scallops

Choosing Scallops: Always use fresh, high-quality sea scallops for the best results. Look for scallops that are plump and have a slightly sweet smell.

Avoid Overcooking: Scallops cook quickly, and overcooking can result in a rubbery texture. Bake until they are just opaque in the center to ensure tenderness.

Customizing the Stuffing: Feel free to experiment with the stuffing by adding ingredients like crabmeat, bacon, or different herbs and spices to suit your taste.

Side Dishes: Serve your baked stuffed scallops with light, refreshing sides such as a citrus salad, steamed vegetables, or a buttery risotto.

Conclusion

Baked stuffed scallops offer a luxurious yet simple way to enjoy this delicious seafood. Whether you prefer a classic breadcrumb stuffing, a bold Mediterranean twist, or a keto-friendly version, these recipes are sure to impress. With a quick cooking time and endless possibilities for flavor combinations, baked stuffed scallops can elevate any meal into a memorable occasion. Enjoy experimenting with these recipes and discovering your favorite way to serve this delectable dish!