Bacon wrapped scallops are a show-stopping appetizer or entree that combines the salty crispiness of bacon with the tender, sweet flavor of sea scallops. If you’ve ever wondered how to cook bacon wrapped scallops perfectly, this guide will walk you through the process step-by-step with easy tips and tricks to impress your guests or treat yourself to a gourmet meal at home.
What You’ll Need
– 16-18 large sea scallops (not bay scallops)
– 8-10 slices of bacon (regular thickness, not thick-cut)
– ½ teaspoon kosher salt (adjust if using different salt types)
– ¼ teaspoon black pepper
– ½ teaspoon garlic powder
– 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional for brushing)
– Toothpicks or small skewers to secure bacon
– Optional: hot pepper jelly, maple syrup, soy sauce, or garlic butter for extra flavor
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
First, pat your scallops dry with paper towels. This step is crucial because dry scallops sear better and won’t steam in the pan or oven. Season them lightly with salt, pepper, and garlic powder for a simple but flavorful base.
Next, prepare your bacon. Since bacon takes longer to cook than scallops, you want to par-cook it so it’s pliable but not crispy. You can do this by microwaving bacon slices between paper towels for about 2 minutes or baking them in the oven at 400°F for 7-10 minutes until they are halfway cooked. This prevents the bacon from overcooking while the scallops finish cooking.
Step 2: Wrap and Secure
Wrap each scallop with a half or whole slice of the par-cooked bacon. Use a toothpick or skewer to secure the bacon around the scallop so it doesn’t unravel during cooking. If your scallops are smaller, you can group two together before wrapping.
Step 3: Cooking Methods
Broiling (Quick and Easy)
– Preheat your broiler and position the oven rack about 6 inches from the heat source.
– Place the bacon-wrapped scallops on a foil-lined baking sheet or wire rack.
– Brush the scallops with melted butter or a glaze made from maple syrup and soy sauce for extra flavor.
– Broil for about 4-6 minutes per side, flipping halfway through. The scallops are done when they turn opaque and the bacon is crispy.
Pan-Searing (Golden Crust)
– Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
– Sear the bacon-wrapped scallops for 1-2 minutes on each side until the bacon crisps and scallops develop a golden crust.
– Remove from heat and optionally drizzle with a garlic butter sauce made by melting butter with garlic, honey, and lime juice.
Baking (Hands-Off)
– Preheat oven to 425°F.
– Place wrapped scallops on a wire rack over a baking sheet.
– Brush with a soy sauce and maple syrup mixture.
– Bake for 12-15 minutes, basting every 5 minutes until bacon is crisp and scallops are cooked through.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Bacon Wrapped Scallops
– Do not overcook scallops: They cook quickly and become rubbery if left too long. Watch for the scallops to turn from translucent to opaque.
– Use sea scallops, not bay scallops: Sea scallops are larger and better suited for wrapping and cooking evenly.
– Pre-cook bacon just enough: Bacon should be pliable but not crispy before wrapping.
– Secure with toothpicks: This ensures the bacon stays wrapped during cooking.
– Add flavor with glazes or sauces: Maple syrup, soy sauce, hot pepper jelly, or garlic butter sauce add a delicious sweet and savory touch.
– Serve immediately: Bacon wrapped scallops are best enjoyed hot and fresh for maximum crispiness and tenderness.
Serving Suggestions
Bacon wrapped scallops make an elegant appetizer for parties or a main dish paired with creamy risotto, garlic mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. For a special touch, serve with a dipping sauce such as a tangy apple cider reduction or a spicy hot pepper jelly.
Bacon wrapped scallops are surprisingly easy to make yet impressively delicious. With a few simple steps and attention to timing, you can create a perfect balance of crispy bacon and tender scallops that will wow any crowd. Enjoy your cooking adventure!