Bacon-Wrapped Scallops 🥓🦪🔥 Smoky, Juicy, and Irresistibly Elegant
Bacon-wrapped scallops are the perfect blend of smoky, savory, and sweet. The crisp bacon complements the tender scallops, creating a luxurious appetizer that’s easy to prepare yet feels indulgent and restaurant-worthy.
Ingredients (Serves 4–6 as an appetizer)
- 1 lb large sea scallops (about 12–16)
- 8 slices of bacon, cut in half
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp maple syrup or honey (optional, for glaze)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Toothpicks, for securing
Step 1: Prep the bacon
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment. Partially cook bacon slices for 5–6 minutes, until just beginning to render but still pliable. Drain on paper towels.
Step 2: Prep the scallops
Pat scallops dry with paper towels (removing moisture ensures even cooking). Season lightly with salt and black pepper.
Step 3: Wrap the scallops
Wrap each scallop with a piece of bacon and secure with a toothpick.
Step 4: Cook the scallops
Place wrapped scallops on prepared baking sheet. Brush lightly with olive oil and, if using, a touch of maple syrup or honey for caramelization. Bake 12–15 minutes, turning once, until bacon is crisp and scallops are opaque and tender.
Step 5: Serve
Arrange on a platter and serve hot, optionally with lemon wedges or a dipping sauce like garlic aioli.
Flavor Variations
- Brush with teriyaki glaze instead of maple for an Asian-inspired twist
- Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika before baking for extra depth
- Pair with a blue cheese or creamy horseradish dip for contrast
- Use prosciutto instead of bacon for a more delicate wrap
Pro Tips
- Partially cook the bacon first — this ensures scallops don’t overcook while bacon crisps
- Use large scallops for the best ratio of bacon-to-scallop
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; leave space for even cooking
- For extra crispy bacon, broil the last 1–2 minutes
Final Thoughts
Bacon-Wrapped Scallops are smoky, juicy, and irresistibly elegant — the kind of appetizer that vanishes quickly at gatherings. A perfect balance of surf and turf in one bite.
Wrap it. Bake it. Bite into smoky bliss. 🥓🦪🔥
🦐 More Coastal Seafood Recipes
From cozy casseroles to zesty grilled fish and elegant seafood pastas, this collection of Seafood Recipes covers every ocean-inspired craving — whether you’re planning a dinner party or a quick weeknight win.
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- 🐟 Salmon Recipes – Baking & grilling to bowls, pastas, and more — healthy, flavorful, and easy to make/
- 🦞 Seafood Casseroles – Bubbly, Buttery & Oven-Ready. Comfort food meets coastal flavor.
- 🥣 Flavorful Seafood Soups – Rich chowders, bisques, and broth-based favorites.
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- 🍚 Risotto Recipes with Seafood – Creamy, silky rice dishes meet the richness of the sea.
- 🌊 Seafood Stews – Mediterranean, Latin to classic American, hearty stews with satisfying depth in your bowl.
- 🍝🧀 Seafood Lasagna – Lasagna meets the sea in these rich and satisfying delicious twist classic bakes.