There’s something irresistibly enticing about the combination of bacon and seafood that evokes a wave of nostalgia for holiday gatherings and special occasions. Picture this: the savory scent of bacon wafting through the air as tender scallops sizzle to perfection in your oven. That’s exactly what you’ll experience when you whip up these Bacon Wrapped Scallops—a dish that effortlessly merges elegance with comforting flavors.
Just imagine serving these delightful bites at your next gathering, leaving your guests in awe while you relish in the simplicity of preparing them. In just 15 minutes, you can transform ordinary sea scallops into a show-stopping appetizer that’s packed with flavor. Perfect for impressing both seasoned chefs and home cooks alike, this recipe will bring joy and excitement back to your dining table, showcasing that delicious home-cooked meals don’t have to be complicated. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure!
Why are Bacon Wrapped Scallops a Must-Try?
Irresistible Flavor: The rich, smoky flavor of bacon envelops tender scallops, creating an unforgettable taste experience.
Quick and Easy: Finished in just 15 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether hosting a party or enjoying family dinner, these bites are sure to impress every palate.
Versatile Serving: Enjoy them as an appetizer, pair with a salad, or serve over pasta for a delightful meal.
Simplicity Meets Elegance: Minimal ingredients and easy prep make this a go-to recipe for both novice and experienced cooks alike.
Elevate your next meal with these Bacon Wrapped Scallops and discover a new favorite!
Bacon Wrapped Scallops Ingredients
Elevate your appetizer game with these essential ingredients!
For the Scallops
• 16 sea scallops – Choose dry-packed scallops for the best texture and flavor.
• 4 slices bacon – Use thick-cut bacon for a satisfying crunch.
For Assembly
• 16 toothpicks – These keep everything together, ensuring a perfect bite every time.
For Flavoring
• Olive oil – Drizzle to enhance richness and promote even cooking; extra-virgin olive oil adds a nice touch.
• Freshly ground black pepper – Season to taste for a hint of warmth and complexity.
• Kosher salt – Helps to amplify the flavors of the scallops and bacon, remember to season wisely!
Prepare these ingredients, and you’re on your way to creating mouthwatering Bacon Wrapped Scallops!
How to Make Bacon Wrapped Scallops
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Preheat your oven to 425°F. This step is crucial for achieving crispy bacon and perfectly cooked scallops.
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Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze!
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Pat scallops dry using a paper towel. Removing excess moisture helps them sear nicely and ensures a firm texture.
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Wrap each scallop in a half slice of bacon and secure it with a toothpick. Repeat until all the scallops are wrapped—this crispy layer is where the magic happens!
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Drizzle olive oil over each wrapped scallop and season with freshly ground black pepper and kosher salt. This enhances the flavors beautifully, giving each bite a savory twist.
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Arrange the scallops in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet with enough space between each to allow the bacon to crisp up.
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Bake them for 12 to 15 minutes until the scallops are tender and opaque, and the bacon is cooked through. Serve them hot for the best experience!
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Bacon Wrapped Scallops
• Choose Quality Scallops: Fresh, dry-packed sea scallops ensure the best flavor and texture. Avoid wet scallops, as they can release excess moisture during cooking.
• Bacon Selection Matters: Opt for thick-cut bacon for these Bacon Wrapped Scallops. Thin bacon can shrink too much, ruining the balance of flavors and textures.
• Use Proper Oven Temperature: Preheating your oven to 425°F is key for achieving that perfect crispiness on the bacon while keeping the scallops tender.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Arrange the scallops with space between each one. This allows for even cooking and ensures that bacon crisps up nicely.
• Check Doneness Carefully: Keep an eye on cooking time; scallops are done when opaque and tender, while bacon should be crisp but not burnt for the best bite.
How to Store and Freeze Bacon Wrapped Scallops
Fridge: Store any leftover Bacon Wrapped Scallops in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh while maintaining their delicious flavor.
Freezer: If freezing, wrap scallops tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer bag. They can stay frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through. This helps preserve the texture and taste!
Thawing: For frozen scallops, transfer them to the fridge overnight to safely thaw before reheating. This ensures even warming without compromising quality.
What to Serve with Bacon Wrapped Scallops?
Indulge your senses and create a memorable dining experience with perfectly paired accompaniments that elevate each savory bite.
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Creamy Garlic Risotto: The rich, creamy texture mirrors the tenderness of scallops, while garlic adds a robust flavor that enhances the dish.
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Zesty Lemon Asparagus: Bright, lemony asparagus adds a refreshing contrast, cutting through the richness of the bacon for a delightful balance.
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Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette brings freshness and acidity, which complements the savory scallops beautifully.
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Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: These sweet yet savory fries offer a crispy texture that contrasts with the tenderness of the scallops, making each bite exciting.
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Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay pairs wonderfully, as its buttery notes complement the bacon while the acidity enhances the scallops.
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Savory Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous infused with fresh herbs acts as a delightful base, soaking up flavors and providing lightness to the meal.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crisped up with balsamic glaze, these sprouts add a touch of sweetness and earthy flavor that marries well with the richness of the dish.
Make your meal unforgettable with these delectable pairings that will have everyone raving about the magic of Bacon Wrapped Scallops!
Bacon Wrapped Scallops Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize these delightful bites to suit your taste!
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Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the bacon for a fragrant twist.
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Sweet & Spicy: Glaze the scallops with a mixture of honey and sriracha before wrapping them in bacon for a delightful contrast.
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Cheesy Delight: Place a small cube of cream cheese inside each scallop before wrapping it in bacon for a creamy burst.
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Smoky Flavor: Use applewood or hickory smoked bacon for an added layer of smoky richness that will enhance the overall taste.
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Citrus Zing: Sprinkle lemon zest over the scallops before baking for a fresh, zesty flavor that balances the richness of the bacon.
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Gluten-Free Option: Swap traditional bacon with turkey bacon or prosciutto to fit gluten-free dietary needs without sacrificing taste.
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Herbed Cream Cheese: Mix cream cheese with garlic and fresh herbs, then pipe a small amount into each scallop before wrapping them.
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Fiery Kick: Add a slice of jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper to the scallops before wrapping them in bacon for a spicy finish.
With these variations, you’ll have the perfect Bacon Wrapped Scallops to delight every palate!
Make Ahead Options
These Bacon Wrapped Scallops are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prep the scallops up to 24 hours in advance by wrapping each scallop in bacon and securing it with a toothpick. Arrange them on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper before covering tightly with plastic wrap or foil. This way, the flavors meld beautifully overnight. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake them straight from the fridge for 12 to 15 minutes until they’re golden and cooked through. This method not only saves you time but also ensures they are just as delicious and impressive when it’s time to entertain!
Bacon Wrapped Scallops Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best scallops for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting scallops, aim for dry-packed sea scallops, as they provide the best texture and flavor. Look for scallops that are firm and moist with a fresh, slightly sweet scent. Avoid those that are overly wet or have a fishy odor, as this can indicate lower quality.
How should I store leftover Bacon Wrapped Scallops?
To keep your leftovers fresh, store any uneaten Bacon Wrapped Scallops in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay delicious for up to 3 days. Just make sure to let them cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup!
Can I freeze Bacon Wrapped Scallops?
Yes! If you’d like to freeze them, wrap each scallop tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored this way for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover scallops?
To preserve that crispy texture, preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the scallops on a baking sheet and heat them for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. This method helps to make them taste deliciously fresh, just like when you first cooked them!
Are there any dietary concerns I should be aware of?
Absolutely! If you’re serving these Bacon Wrapped Scallops to guests, make sure to ask about any allergies. Shellfish is a common allergen, and the bacon used may contain gluten or other allergens depending on the brand. If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, consider using turkey bacon or a plant-based alternative for a different twist.
Bacon Wrapped Scallops: The Perfect Bite-Sized Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F. This step is crucial for achieving crispy bacon and perfectly cooked scallops.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze!
- Pat scallops dry using a paper towel. Removing excess moisture helps them sear nicely.
- Wrap each scallop in a half slice of bacon and secure it with a toothpick. Repeat until all the scallops are wrapped.
- Drizzle olive oil over each wrapped scallop and season with freshly ground black pepper and kosher salt.
- Arrange the scallops in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet with space between each.
- Bake them for 12 to 15 minutes until the scallops are tender and opaque, and the bacon is cooked through.