Bacon wrapped scallops are one of those irresistible appetizers that combine the sweet, delicate flavor of scallops with the smoky, crispy goodness of bacon. Whether you’re planning a dinner party or just want to treat yourself, knowing how to cook bacon wrapped scallops perfectly will elevate your cooking game. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know-from selecting scallops to cooking tips-to make these mouthwatering bites every time.
Why Bacon Wrapped Scallops Are a Crowd-Pleaser
The magic of bacon wrapped scallops lies in the contrast of textures and flavors. The tender, juicy scallops melt in your mouth while the bacon adds a savory crunch. This surf-and-turf combo is quick to prepare, impressive to serve, and loved by all ages. Plus, with just a few simple ingredients, you can create a gourmet appetizer that looks and tastes like it took hours to make.
Ingredients You’ll Need
– Large sea scallops (preferably dry scallops for best texture)
– Bacon strips (thin or regular cut)
– Salt and pepper
– Olive oil or a high smoke point oil (like avocado oil)
– Optional: fresh parsley for garnish, lemon juice, garlic powder, or a simple garlic butter sauce
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Bacon Wrapped Scallops
1. Choose and Prepare Your Scallops
For the best results, buy dry scallops if possible. Dry scallops haven’t been soaked in phosphates, which means they have a natural sweetness and better texture. Large scallops are easier to wrap and cook evenly. If you buy frozen scallops, thaw them fully in the refrigerator before cooking.
Before wrapping, pat each scallop dry with a paper towel. This step is crucial because removing excess moisture helps the bacon crisp up instead of becoming soggy. It also locks in the scallop’s natural juices, keeping it tender and juicy.
2. Partially Cook the Bacon
To avoid overcooking the scallops while waiting for the bacon to crisp, partially cook the bacon first. You can do this by:
– Cooking bacon strips in a skillet over medium heat for about 8-10 minutes until they are pliable but not crispy.
– Or baking bacon on a rack in the oven at 400°F for about 10 minutes.
Once partially cooked, drain the bacon on paper towels and let it cool. Then cut each strip in half lengthwise to wrap around individual scallops.
3. Wrap the Scallops
Wrap each scallop snugly with a half strip of bacon and secure it with a toothpick or a small skewer. Avoid stretching the bacon too much, as it can unravel during cooking. Season the wrapped scallops lightly with salt and pepper or your favorite seasoning blend.
4. Cooking Methods: Pan-Searing vs. Broiling vs. Baking
Pan-Searing
Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of oil. Place the bacon-wrapped scallops in the skillet without crowding the pan. Sear each side for 3-4 minutes until the bacon is crispy and the scallops are opaque and firm. Press gently on the scallops to ensure even browning. Brush with garlic butter in the last minute for extra flavor.
Broiling
Place the scallops on an oven-safe rack set over a baking sheet to allow air circulation and prevent grease pooling. Broil on high about 6 inches from the heat source, turning halfway through, until the bacon crisps and scallops are cooked through (about 8-10 minutes total). Broiling is faster and gives a nice crispy finish.
Baking
Alternatively, bake the scallops at 400°F for 15-20 minutes on a rack over a baking sheet. This method is hands-off and still yields tender scallops with crispy bacon.
Tips for Perfect Bacon Wrapped Scallops
– Don’t overcrowd the pan or baking sheet. This causes steaming rather than searing or crisping.
– Use oven-safe toothpicks or skewers. Soak wooden ones in water for 20 minutes to prevent burning.
– Dry scallops thoroughly to ensure the bacon crisps nicely.
– Cook scallops to an internal temperature of about 120-130°F for perfect doneness.
– Add a finishing touch like a sprinkle of fresh parsley, a drizzle of lemon butter sauce, or lemon wedges for brightness.
Serving Suggestions
Bacon wrapped scallops make an elegant appetizer on their own, served with toothpicks for easy grabbing. For a main course, pair them with:
– Grilled asparagus or steamed green beans
– Creamy mashed potatoes or polenta
– A fresh arugula salad
For drinks, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, or Albariño complements the smoky and sweet flavors beautifully.
Bacon wrapped scallops are surprisingly easy to make but deliver a wow factor with every bite. Follow these steps to enjoy a perfectly balanced dish that’s crispy, tender, and bursting with flavor. Happy cooking!