Scallops are a true delight – sweet, tender, and surprisingly easy to prepare. While many associate scallops with a quick pan-sear, baking them in the oven offers a fantastic, hands-off alternative that results in perfectly cooked seafood every time. It’s a healthier option, too, as it requires less oil. If you’re wondering how long to cook scallops in oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s dive into the simple steps to achieve culinary perfection.
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Your Guide to Oven-Baked Scallops at 350°F
The sweet spot for baking scallops in a preheated oven at 350°F is typically 10 to 15 minutes. This timeframe ensures they cook through without becoming rubbery, leaving them tender and juicy with that signature sweet flavor. The exact duration can vary slightly depending on the size and thickness of your scallops, as well as whether they are bay or sea scallops.
For best results, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), which you can check with a reliable meat thermometer. At this temperature, scallops will be opaque throughout and firm to the touch.
Step-by-Step: Baking Scallops in the Oven
- Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). A properly preheated oven is crucial for even cooking.
- Prepare Your Scallops:
- Thaw (if frozen): If using frozen scallops, ensure they are fully thawed before cooking. The best way to do this is overnight in the refrigerator or by placing them in a bowl of cold water for about 30 minutes.
- Pat Dry: This step is critical! Moisture is the enemy of good texture. Gently pat the scallops dry with paper towels. Removing excess water helps them cook properly and not steam.
- Season Generously: Lightly coat the scallops with a small amount of olive oil or melted butter. Then, season simply with salt and freshly ground black pepper. You can also add a pinch of garlic powder, paprika, or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra flavor.
- Arrange on a Baking Sheet: Place the seasoned scallops in a single layer on a lightly greased baking sheet or a baking dish. Make sure they aren’t overcrowded; leave a little space between each scallop to allow for even cooking. Overcrowding can lead to steaming, which prevents them from getting that lovely slightly caramelized exterior.
- Bake: Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven. Bake for 10-15 minutes.
- Check for Doneness: Around the 10-minute mark, check a scallop. It should be opaque throughout, firm to the touch, and have an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). If they still look translucent in the center, give them another minute or two.
- Serve Immediately: Scallops are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. A squeeze of lemon juice, a sprinkle of fresh parsley, or a drizzle of a light sauce can elevate their natural sweetness.
Choosing the Right Scallops
The type of scallops you choose can impact your cooking time and final result:
- Sea Scallops: These are larger, often 1 to 1 ½ inches in diameter, and have a rich, sweet flavor. They are the most common choice for baking and will generally take the full 10-15 minutes.
- Bay Scallops: Smaller, usually ½ inch in diameter, bay scallops are sweeter and more delicate. They cook much faster, so if you’re using them, keep a closer eye and reduce your baking time to about 8-10 minutes at 350°F to prevent overcooking.
- “Dry” vs. “Wet” Scallops: Always opt for “dry” scallops if possible. “Wet” scallops are treated with a sodium tripolyphosphate solution, which makes them retain more water. This water leeches out during cooking, making it harder to get a good texture and often resulting in a rubbery consistency. Dry scallops have a natural, pure flavor and sear or bake beautifully.
Why Bake Scallops in the Oven?
While pan-searing gets a lot of attention, baking scallops in the oven offers several compelling advantages:
- Healthier Option: Baking uses minimal oil, making it a lighter alternative to pan-frying.
- Hands-Off Cooking: Once in the oven, you’re free to prepare side dishes or simply relax, eliminating the need for constant supervision.
- Consistent Results: The oven’s even heat distribution helps cook scallops uniformly, reducing the risk of unevenly cooked pieces.
- Great for Batches: Perfect for feeding a crowd, as you can cook many scallops at once without crowding a pan.
Expert Tips for Perfect Oven-Baked Scallops
- Don’t Overcook! This is the golden rule for scallops. Overcooked scallops become tough and rubbery, losing their delicate flavor. Always err on the side of slightly undercooking, as they will continue to cook for a minute or two after being removed from the oven.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: For absolute precision, a thermometer is your best friend. 145°F is the magic number.
- Single Layer is Key: Ensure scallops are not touching each other on the baking sheet to allow hot air to circulate and cook them evenly.
- Bring to Room Temperature: Letting scallops sit out for 10-15 minutes before baking can help them cook more evenly.
- Enhance Flavor: Consider adding a slice of lemon, a pat of butter, or a sprig of thyme to the baking sheet for added aroma and taste.
Serving Suggestions
Oven-baked scallops are versatile and pair well with a variety of dishes:
- Light & Fresh: Serve with a simple green salad, quinoa, or roasted asparagus.
- Creamy Pairings: Alongside creamy risotto, pasta with a light cream sauce, or mashed potatoes.
- Vegetable Sides: Roasted broccoli, sautéed spinach, or a medley of roasted root vegetables.
- Sauces: A squeeze of fresh lemon, a drizzle of browned butter sauce, a light garlic herb sauce, or even a sweet chili sauce.
Storing and Reheating Scallops
Cooked scallops are best eaten fresh. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheating can be tricky as they can easily become rubbery. Gently warm them in a pan over low heat with a touch of butter or in the oven at a low temperature (around 250°F) for just a few minutes until warmed through, being careful not to overcook.
Frequently Asked Questions About Baking Scallops
Can you cook frozen scallops in the oven?
While you can, it’s highly recommended to thaw them first. Cooking from frozen will release too much water, prevent proper browning, and likely result in a rubbery texture. Thaw them completely in the refrigerator or under cold running water before patting dry and baking.
How do you know when scallops are done?
Scallops are done when they turn opaque throughout and feel firm but still tender when gently pressed. For precise results, use an instant-read thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What temperature should I cook scallops at in the oven?
A temperature of 350°F (175°C) is ideal for oven-baking scallops, providing even heat that cooks them through without drying them out. Higher temperatures might cook the exterior too quickly, leaving the inside undercooked, while lower temperatures can take too long and dry them out.
What should I serve with oven-baked scallops?
Light and fresh sides work wonderfully, such as a lemon-herb risotto, steamed green beans, asparagus, a simple garden salad, or angel hair pasta with a light garlic butter sauce. The key is to choose sides that complement, not overpower, the delicate flavor of the scallops.
Conclusion
Baking scallops in the oven at 350°F is an incredibly simple and rewarding way to enjoy this luxurious seafood. With just 10-15 minutes of cooking time, minimal fuss, and a few easy tips, you can create a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen. So go ahead, grab some fresh scallops, and get ready to impress yourself and your guests!