baked bacon wrapped scallops recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best baked bacon wrapped scallops recipe

I have been making baked bacon wrapped scallops for years now, and they are always a hit with my family. The combination of salty, crispy bacon with sweet, tender scallops is just perfect. My kids love them, and they are fancy enough for a dinner party but simple enough for a weeknight meal.

I love that this recipe is baked, not fried, so it is a bit healthier while still being indulgent. Scallops are a great source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are good for your heart. When you wrap them in bacon, you get a wonderful flavor contrast without needing a lot of extra oil or butter.

Baking them in the oven makes the bacon crispy while the scallops stay juicy and tender. It is a foolproof method that always works well. I first tried this recipe when I was looking for something special to make for a family gathering.

Everyone raved about it, and now it is a go-to for holidays and birthdays. The best part is that it looks impressive on the plate but takes very little active time in the kitchen. You just wrap, bake, and serve.

If you have never cooked scallops before, this is a great recipe to start with. The bacon protects the scallops from overcooking, so they stay soft and buttery. Plus, the bacon fat renders out and bastes the scallops as they cook, adding so much flavor.

I promise your family will ask for these again and again.

Baked Bacon Wrapped Scallops

4.7 from 1612 votes

Juicy sea scallops wrapped in crispy bacon and baked to perfection. This easy appetizer or main dish is full of flavor and always a crowd pleaser.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time20 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time35 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Scallops

1 pound large sea scallops, patted dry
8 slices thin cut bacon, cut in half crosswise
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Salt to taste (optional, bacon is salty)
Fresh parsley for garnish

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
2Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
3Pat the scallops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps them brown better.
4In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic powder, and black pepper.
5Gently toss the scallops in this mixture until they are evenly coated.
6If you use salt, add it sparingly because the bacon is already salty.
7Wrap each scallop with a half slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick.
8Place the wrapped scallops seam side down on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one so they cook evenly.
9Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until the bacon is crispy and the scallops are opaque and firm to the touch.
10For extra crispiness, you can switch the oven to broil for the last 1 to 2 minutes, but watch closely so they do not burn.
11Remove the toothpicks before serving.
12Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
13Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

🔧Equipment

Baking sheet
Parchment paper or aluminum foil
Toothpicks
Small bowl

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 6g❤️Cholesterol: 70mg🧂Sodium: 900mg🌾Total Carbs: 5g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 0g🥩Protein: 40g

📝Notes

Tips: Use large sea scallops for best results, as they hold up better during baking. If your bacon is thick cut, par cook it for 3 to 4 minutes in the microwave before wrapping to ensure it gets crispy. You can also add a sprinkle of brown sugar or cayenne pepper for a sweet or spicy twist.

Watch Video Of How Baked Bacon Wrapped Scallops Works

To store leftover baked bacon wrapped scallops, let them cool completely and place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to two days, but the bacon may lose some crispness.

For reheating, I recommend using an oven or air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 5 minutes to restore the crunch. Avoid the microwave as it will make the bacon chewy.

These scallops are perfect for serving as an appetizer at parties or as a main course with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. They also work great for family gatherings because they look elegant but are so simple to prepare.

I always make extra because they disappear fast. This recipe is a keeper for any occasion where you want something delicious and impressive without spending hours in the kitchen.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Bacon Wrapped Scallops

1. Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen scallops. Thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight, then pat them very dry before wrapping. Excess moisture will make the bacon soggy, so drying them well is key.

2. How do I keep the bacon from getting soggy?

Use thin cut bacon and pat the scallops dry before wrapping. Baking at a high temperature of 400 degrees Fahrenheit helps the bacon crisp up. You can also place the wrapped scallops on a wire rack set over the baking sheet so the bacon cooks evenly on all sides.

3. Can I make these ahead of time?

You can assemble the scallops up to a few hours ahead and keep them in the refrigerator. Bake them just before serving for the best texture. Leftover baked scallops can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days, but they are best enjoyed fresh.

4. What dipping sauce goes well with these?

A simple dipping sauce like lemon butter, garlic aioli, or sweet chili sauce pairs nicely. You can also serve them with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before eating to brighten the flavors.

5. Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?

Yes, turkey bacon works, but it will be less crispy and may need a slightly longer cook time. Keep an eye on it and bake until it reaches your desired crispness. The flavor will be milder than pork bacon.

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