Indulge in the luxurious flavors of Lobster Shrimp Scallop Bake, an oven-baked seafood dish that combines the succulent taste of lobster, juicy shrimp, and tender scallops.
This easy yet elegant recipe is perfect for special occasions, holidays, or when you simply want to treat yourself to a restaurant-quality meal at home. Baked in a rich garlic butter sauce with herbs and a crispy topping, this dish is as beautiful as it is delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Lobster Shrimp Scallop Bake
- Luxurious Yet Simple: Enjoy the rich, gourmet flavors of lobster, shrimp, and scallops without complicated cooking techniques.
- Perfect for Entertaining: This dish looks and tastes impressive, making it perfect for dinner parties or holiday gatherings.
- Quick and Easy: Despite its upscale appeal, this bake comes together quickly, allowing you more time to relax and enjoy your meal.
Key Ingredients
For the Seafood
- 1 lb Lobster Tails: Cut into bite-sized pieces, these add a sweet, delicate flavor to the dish.
- 1 lb Large Shrimp: Peeled, deveined, and tails removed for easy eating.
- 1 lb Scallops: Fresh or frozen, cleaned, and patted dry.
Butter Sauce
- 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter: Rich and creamy, perfect for coating the seafood in flavor.
- 4 Cloves Garlic: Minced; brings bold, aromatic notes to the bake.
- Juice of 1 Lemon: Adds brightness and a touch of acidity to balance the richness.
- 1/4 cup White Wine (Optional): Enhances the flavor with a subtle depth and helps to create a delicate sauce.
- 1 tsp Paprika: Adds a mild smokiness and vibrant color.
- 1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): For a hint of heat.
- 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley: Chopped; adds a fresh, herbaceous touch.
- Salt and Pepper to Taste: Essential for seasoning the seafood to perfection.
Topping
- 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs: Provides a crispy texture on top.
- 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty, salty finish.
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil: Helps the topping become golden and crunchy.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Baking Dish
- Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a large baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
- Arrange the Seafood: Place the lobster, shrimp, and scallops evenly in the baking dish, spreading them out to ensure even cooking.
2. Make the Butter Sauce
- Melt the Butter: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Add Garlic and Seasonings: Stir in the minced garlic, lemon juice, white wine (if using), paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour Over Seafood: Drizzle the butter sauce evenly over the seafood, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
3. Prepare the Topping
- Combine Breadcrumbs and Cheese: In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, and olive oil until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.
- Sprinkle Over the Seafood: Evenly distribute the breadcrumb mixture over the seafood, ensuring it covers the dish for a crunchy topping.
4. Bake and Serve
- Bake in the Oven: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the seafood is opaque and the topping is golden brown.
- Broil for Extra Crispiness (Optional): For an extra-crispy topping, broil the dish for 2-3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
Tips for the Perfect Lobster Shrimp Scallop Bake
- Use Fresh Seafood When Possible: Fresh lobster, shrimp, and scallops provide the best flavor and texture, but frozen seafood works well if properly thawed and dried.
- Adjust the Sauce: If you prefer a creamier bake, add 1/4 cup of heavy cream to the butter sauce for a richer texture.
- Broil for Color: Keep an eye on the dish if you choose to broil at the end, as it can quickly go from golden to burnt.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 |
| Protein | 42g |
| Fat | 29g |
| Carbohydrates | 12g |
| Sodium | 620mg |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Vitamin A | 18% DV |
| Vitamin C | 35% DV |
| Calcium | 15% DV |
| Iron | 14% DV |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the point of baking, cover it with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake it when ready to serve.
2. What other seafood can I add?
Feel free to add crab meat, clams, or mussels to enhance the variety of seafood in the dish. Just ensure everything is evenly distributed.
3. Can I use gluten-free breadcrumbs?
Absolutely! Swap the panko breadcrumbs with a gluten-free version to make this dish gluten-free without sacrificing texture.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to maintain the seafood’s texture.
5. Can I use other herbs?
Yes, thyme, dill, or chives would be excellent additions to the dish for different flavor profiles.
Variations to Try
- Garlic Herb Seafood Bake: Add fresh herbs like dill and chives to the butter sauce for a fragrant, herbaceous touch.
- Cajun-Spiced Bake: Replace paprika with Cajun seasoning for a spicier, Southern-inspired version.
- Creamy Parmesan Bake: Add 1/4 cup of heavy cream and extra Parmesan to the sauce for a richer, creamier bake.
Pairing Suggestions
- Side Dish: Serve with roasted asparagus or a mixed green salad for a light, complementary side.
- Starch: Enjoy with a side of garlic mashed potatoes, or serve over pasta for a heartier meal.
- Wine: Pair with a crisp Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc to complement the buttery seafood.
Final Thoughts
Lobster Shrimp Scallop Bake is a luxurious, yet approachable dish that combines the best of seafood with rich, buttery flavors. Perfect for special occasions or whenever you want to indulge, this easy oven-baked recipe is sure to impress. Whether served on its own, over pasta, or with your favorite sides, this dish offers a gourmet experience that’s both satisfying and simple to make.
Treat yourself and your loved ones to this unforgettable seafood bake, and enjoy a meal that’s as delicious as it is elegant!