1. Prepare the Scallops

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Pat the scallops dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving a tender texture and ensuring the scallops don’t release excess moisture while baking.
• Lightly season the scallops with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

2. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

• In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, and half of the parsley.
• Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

3. Arrange the Scallops

• Lightly grease a baking dish or ovenproof skillet with olive oil. Arrange the scallops in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap. Overcrowding can prevent even cooking.

4. Add the Topping

• Drizzle the garlic butter sauce evenly over the scallops.
• Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs over the scallops for a golden, crispy finish. Dust with paprika for added color and flavor.

5. Bake the Scallops

• Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the scallops are opaque and cooked through.
• If desired, switch the oven to broil for the last 1-2 minutes to achieve a lightly browned, crispy topping. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.

6. Garnish and Serve

• Remove the scallops from the oven and garnish with the remaining parsley and lemon zest.
• Serve immediately with your choice of sides.