Bacon Wrapped Scallops are the culinary equivalent of your favorite childhood blanket—familiar, comforting, and guaranteed to bring a smile. The crispy, salty bacon envelops tender, juicy scallops like a warm hug, creating an irresistible combination that dances on your taste buds. Imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen as they sizzle away in the oven, beckoning everyone to gather around.
These little bites of joy aren’t just perfect for special occasions; they’re also fantastic for a cozy night in or impressing unexpected guests. I remember the first time I made them for my friends. The look on their faces when they took that first bite was priceless—a mix of surprise and pure happiness. Trust me, once you try Bacon Wrapped Scallops, you’ll want to share this dish with everyone you know.
Why You'll Love This Bacon Wrapped Scallops
- This incredible Bacon Wrapped Scallops transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly
I still chuckle at how my friends kept trying to sneak extra scallops off the platter when they thought no one was watching. It was a delightful evening filled with laughter and many “just one more” requests!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Large Sea Scallops: Look for plump scallops; fresh is best! Avoid frozen ones if possible for optimal texture.
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Bacon: Use thick-cut bacon for a better balance of flavor and crispiness; it wraps around those scallops perfectly.
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Olive Oil: A splash helps with browning; choose a good quality olive oil for better taste.
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Black Pepper: Freshly cracked pepper adds a lovely kick; don’t skimp on this essential seasoning.
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Lemon Wedges: Serve alongside for drizzling; the acidity brightens up the rich flavors beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Bacon Wrapped Scallops
Prepare Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) while you prepare the scallops and bacon. The heat will help achieve that perfect crispy finish.
Wrap Those Scallops: Take each scallop and wrap it tightly with half a slice of bacon. Secure it with a toothpick if needed. This ensures that all that delicious flavor stays sealed inside.
Season Generously: Drizzle wrapped scallops with olive oil and sprinkle generously with black pepper. This step infuses flavor and promotes browning during cooking.
Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the wrapped scallops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup later. Make sure they have space between them so they can brown evenly.
Bake to Perfection: Pop them in the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes until the bacon turns crispy and golden brown while keeping an eye out not to overcook those delicate scallops.
Garnish & Serve: Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving with lemon wedges on the side. These little gems will be hot – but oh-so-worth it!
Now that you know how to whip up these tasty morsels at home, go ahead and impress your friends or treat yourself!
You Must Know About Bacon Wrapped Scallops
- This showstopping Bacon Wrapped Scallops delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the scallops in a hot skillet first to develop a golden crust. While they sear, cook the bacon until it’s just slightly crispy but still flexible. This ensures the bacon wraps around the scallops easily without breaking. After wrapping, finish cooking in the oven to ensure everything is perfectly cooked and flavored.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with spices! A sprinkle of garlic powder or a dash of lemon zest can elevate your Bacon Wrapped Scallops. You can also try different types of bacon—smoky, spicy, or even turkey bacon for a lighter option. Adding a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze right before serving adds a sweet finish.
Storing & Reheating
To store leftover Bacon Wrapped Scallops, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to two days. For reheating, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm them for about 10 minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving them, as that can make the bacon chewy instead of crispy.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Bacon Wrapped Scallops
- This professional-quality Bacon Wrapped Scallops relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth
- Tip let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly
Cooking these delicious treats reminds me of my first dinner party where I bravely attempted them; my friends were all impressed, and one even declared me “the scallop whisperer.”
FAQ
Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen scallops! Just be sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Drain any excess moisture; otherwise, they may not sear properly.
What kind of bacon should I use?
Thick-cut bacon works best as it holds up well during cooking and provides a satisfying crunch when wrapped around the tender scallops. Regular bacon will work too but may become overly crispy.
How do I know when my scallops are done?
Perfectly cooked scallops should be opaque and firm to touch but not rubbery. Typically they take about 8-10 minutes in total—four minutes per side if searing!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh from the oven, you can prep everything ahead of time by wrapping the scallops in bacon and storing them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook them.
Conclusion for Bacon Wrapped Scallops
Bacon Wrapped Scallops are not only easy to prepare but also deliver an impressive burst of flavors that will wow your guests or family at any gathering. By following simple tips for cooking and personalizing your dish with spices or glazes, you’ll create a delightful appetizer or main course that’s sure to be a hit every time! So roll up those sleeves and get ready to serve some deliciousness!
Bacon Wrapped Scallops
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Bacon Wrapped Scallops are the perfect blend of savory and sweet, elevating your gatherings with their irresistible flavor. Each tender scallop is enveloped in crispy, thick-cut bacon, creating a delightful bite that will impress your guests. With easy preparation and quick cooking time, this dish is ideal for special occasions or a cozy night in. Drizzle with lemon juice for a burst of freshness that perfectly complements the richness of the bacon.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large sea scallops (about 16 scallops)
- 8 slices thick-cut bacon
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Wrap each scallop tightly with half a slice of bacon; secure with a toothpick if necessary.
- Drizzle wrapped scallops with olive oil and sprinkle with black pepper.
- Arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring space between them.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until bacon is crispy and scallops are cooked through.
- Serve warm with lemon wedges.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 scallops (120g)
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
