Baked Scallops with Ritz Crackers

When it comes to seafood dishes that impress without requiring a culinary degree, Baked Scallops with Ritz Crackers reign supreme. This dish is a perfect blend of tender scallops topped with a buttery, crunchy cracker mixture that elevates the natural sweetness of the seafood. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving something special, this recipe is sure to delight your taste buds and leave your guests clamoring for more. Let’s dive into how to prepare these delectable scallops, one of the easiest yet most luxurious dishes you can serve.

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

Baked scallops are a wonderful centerpiece for any gathering. Their delicate flavor paired with the crunchy topping makes them irresistible. The Ritz cracker crust adds a nostalgic element that everyone loves, while the fresh thyme brings a touch of elegance. Plus, scallops cook quickly, so you can spend more time enjoying the company of your guests rather than stuck in the kitchen. This dish is not only visually stunning but also a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

What’s in the Bowl

To whip up your own plate of Baked Scallops with Ritz Crackers, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 pounds of sea scallops
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, minced
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 20 Ritz crackers, hand crushed
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• Juice of 1 lemon

Each ingredient plays a key role in creating a dish that feels both elevated and comforting. The scallops are the star, while the buttermilk adds creaminess, and the lemon juice brightens the entire dish.

Equipment & Tools

Before you get started, make sure you have the following tools on hand:

• Large baking dish – for cooking the scallops.
• Mixing bowl – to combine your topping ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons – for precise measurements.
• Sharp knife – to mince the thyme and lemon.
• Oven – preheated to ensure even cooking.

Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process and help you achieve the best results.

The Method for Baked Scallops with Ritz Crackers

Now that you have everything ready, let’s get into the step-by-step process to create these delicious Baked Scallops with Ritz Crackers.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your scallops cook evenly and develop a lovely golden crust.

Step 2: Prepare the Scallops

Pat the sea scallops dry with paper towels. This step is crucial as it helps them sear beautifully in the oven. Season both sides with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Create the Buttermilk Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the buttermilk with minced fresh thyme and lemon juice. Stir well to blend the flavors. This mixture will not only marinate the scallops but also add moisture and richness to the dish.

Step 4: Arrange the Scallops

Place the seasoned scallops in a large baking dish. Pour the buttermilk mixture over the scallops, ensuring they are well coated. Let them marinate for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 5: Prepare the Ritz Cracker Topping

While the scallops are marinating, take your crushed Ritz crackers and mix them with the melted butter in a separate bowl. Make sure the crackers are well coated in butter for a crispy topping.

Step 6: Top the Scallops

After the scallops have marinated, sprinkle the buttery Ritz cracker mixture evenly over the top. Make sure to cover all the scallops for that perfect crunch.

Step 7: Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the scallops are opaque and the topping is golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

Step 8: Serve

Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve immediately, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh thyme or lemon zest for an extra touch.

Holiday & Seasonal Touches

This dish is versatile and can be tailored for different occasions. Consider these seasonal touches:

• For a festive holiday theme, incorporate crushed cranberries into the topping.
• In the summer, add diced tomatoes and basil for a fresh Mediterranean twist.
• For a cozy autumn vibe, mix in some pumpkin spice with the buttermilk.
• Serve alongside seasonal vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal.

These variations can help you keep the dish exciting and relevant throughout the year.

Testing Timeline

To get the best results with your Baked Scallops with Ritz Crackers, consider this timeline:

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Marinating Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 40-45 minutes

This timeline allows you to have everything ready in a reasonable amount of time, making it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

If you have leftovers or want to prepare the dish in advance, consider these tips:

• Unbaked scallops can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before cooking.
• For longer storage, freeze the marinated scallops in an airtight container. They can be kept for up to 3 months.
• To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes, checking for doneness.

This flexibility makes it easy to enjoy Baked Scallops with Ritz Crackers any time you crave them.

Quick Questions

Can I use frozen scallops?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before proceeding with the recipe. Frozen scallops can be just as delicious when cooked properly.

What can I substitute for buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can easily make a substitute by mixing 1/2 cup of milk with 1/2 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the scallops up to the baking step, cover them, and refrigerate for a few hours before baking. This is perfect for dinner parties!

What sides pair well with scallops?

Scallops pair beautifully with light sides such as a simple arugula salad, roasted asparagus, or garlic butter noodles. Choose sides that won’t overpower the delicate flavor of the scallops.

Quick Weeknight Wins

If you’re looking for more quick and easy dinner ideas, consider these options:

• Easy Chicken Tacos – Perfect for a busy weeknight.
• Vegetable Stir-Fry – A healthy, colorful option.
• Spaghetti Aglio e Olio – Simple yet satisfying.
• Quick Fish Tacos – A fresh twist on a classic dish.

Each of these recipes offers simplicity and flavor, making them great companions to your scallops.

Save & Share

If you enjoyed this recipe for Baked Scallops with Ritz Crackers, don’t forget to save and share it with your friends and family. Cooking is always better when it’s shared! You can print this recipe or share it on your favorite social media platforms to spread the love for easy yet impressive seafood dishes.

There you have it! With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a stunning dish that is sure to impress at any gathering. The combination of tender scallops with a buttery cracker topping creates a delightful experience for the palate. Whether enjoyed as an appetizer or a main course, Baked Scallops with Ritz Crackers are a dish that you’ll find yourself making again and again. So grab your ingredients, fire up the oven, and get ready to indulge in this seafood delight!