Scallops Gratin
Indulge in a luxurious Scallops Gratin that’s creamy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor. This quick and easy casserole features tender scallops baked under a golden breadcrumb and Gruyère cheese crust, delivering a restaurant-quality seafood dish perfect for any occasion. Enjoy a rich, elegant presentation and customizable variations to suit your taste and dietary needs.
- Author: Maria
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- Fresh scallops (dry-packed), 1 lb
- Heavy cream, 1 cup
- Gruyère cheese, grated, 1 cup, divided
- Butter, 3 tbsp
- Garlic, minced, 2 cloves
- Shallots, finely chopped, 2 small
- Breadcrumbs, ½ cup
- Lemon juice, 1 tbsp
- Fresh parsley, chopped, 2 tbsp
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Prepare the Scallops: Pat the scallops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Sauté scallops in melted butter over medium-high heat for 1-2 minutes per side until they develop a light golden crust. Remove from pan and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pan, add additional butter and sauté finely chopped shallots and minced garlic until soft and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Avoid browning the garlic.
- Make the Cream Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let the sauce thicken slightly, then stir in half of the grated Gruyère cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and a splash of fresh lemon juice to brighten the richness.
- Assemble the Gratin: Place the sautéed scallops evenly in a baking dish. Pour the creamy sauce over them to coat well. Sprinkle the remaining Gruyère cheese over the surface, then top with a generous layer of breadcrumbs for crunch.
- Bake Until Golden: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the gratin for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and the breadcrumbs are golden brown. Let rest a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Dry scallops are key to avoiding a watery gratin.
- Do not overcook scallops to prevent toughness; they cook quickly.
- Use freshly grated Gruyère for best melting and flavor.
- Allow the gratin to rest briefly after baking for clean servings.
- For extra crunch, toast breadcrumbs lightly before topping.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 recipe
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 16 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
Keywords: scallops, gratin, seafood casserole, creamy scallops, cheesy scallops, baked scallops, easy seafood recipes, elegant appetizers