Scallops are a type of shellfish with a rich flavor and springy texture.  They are a guilty pleasure in our household because they taste absolutely amazing when drenched in butter 😊 We recently acquired some “baking shells” and though it would be a fun way to bake scallops.  The shells are oven-safe up to 500 degrees F and create a vessel for the scallops, butter, and other ingredients you want to use.  It’s like the scallops are sitting in their own pool of buttery goodness!  If you have never tried scallops before, this is the route I recommend trying for your first time!

The recipe I want to share with you today is for Baked Scallops on the Shell.

Start by preheating the oven to 450 degrees F.  Place the scallop shells on a baking sheet.

Make sure the scallops are completely thawed, if purchased frozen, and then pat dry.  If you do buy frozen scallops, I recommend letting them thaw and then placing them in a strainer to help let any residual liquid drain for a few minutes, them pat them dry.

Add the scallops and breadcrumbs to a large bowl.  Toss to evenly coat.  Use your hands or tongs to help coat the sides of the scallops.

Place 2 scallops in each shell.  Add any remaining breadcrumbs on top.  I purchased large scallops so only 2 would fit in each of my shells.  If you buy smaller scallops you can add as many scallops as possible, that will fit in a single even layer.

Add ½ Tbsp of butter on top of each scallop filled shell.

Add 1 tsp olive oil, ½ tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp black pepper on top of each scallop filled shell.

Squeeze lime juice on top of each scallop filled shell.  This is to taste, and you can always squeeze additional juice on top after baking, if you want more zest!

Bake for 25 minutes or until the inside has turned opaque.  This is for LARGE scallops.  If the scallops are smaller, reduce the baking time by 5-10 minutes, then check for completion.  If you’ve never made scallops before, it can be hard to tell if they are cooked when you don’t know what you are looking for.  Rule of thumb…. scallops are cooked when they are just barely opaque all the way through.  The texture will be soft.  If they are firm or tough, they are overcooked.

Carefully remove the shells to a serving platter and serve warm with a side of steamed vegetables or pasta.  Add additional lime juice or even some fresh chopped chives as a garnish and enjoy!

These are SO good!  They are soft, tender and simply melt in your mouth.  I think they are quite filling too, but you can usually find room for just one more 😊

The recipe can be found here.

The shells are super easy to clean as well.  I hand wash mine and do not recommend putting them in the dishwasher.  Simply soak in some warm soapy water for a few minutes to help any of the food that’s baked on loosen up, then wipe clean with a dish rag, rinse, and dry.  They are a fun way to cook your food and make for an even better presentation.

Happy Cooking!

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