Easy Bacon Wrapped Scallops Recipe You’ll Love

Oh, the sweet allure of bacon—crispy, salty, and utterly irresistible. (Remember that viral bacon craze a few years back?

Still going strong for me! ) Now, imagine wrapping that around tender, juicy scallops.

It’s like a culinary hug that promises to delight your taste buds while making you feel fancy without the fuss.

Steps

Preheat your oven to 425°F. Use a paper towel to pat the scallops dry and remove any side muscles if necessary.
Take half a slice of bacon and wrap it around each scallop, securing it in place with a toothpick. If you prefer extra crispy bacon, consider partially baking the slices for 3-5 minutes before wrapping.

Lightly drizzle olive oil over the scallops and season them with freshly ground black pepper and kosher salt for added flavor.
Place the scallops on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they are arranged in a single layer to allow even cooking.
Bake the scallops in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, adjusting based on the size of the scallops and the thickness of the bacon. Serve them hot for the best taste.

Why should I use ‘dry’ sea scallops for this recipe?
‘Dry’ sea scallops are recommended because they haven’t been treated with sodium tripolyphosphate, which can make them heavier and affect their texture. Using untreated scallops ensures a better flavor and consistency.
How can I ensure the bacon is crispy without overcooking the scallops?
If you prefer crispier bacon, you can partially cook the bacon for 3-5 minutes before wrapping it around the scallops. This helps achieve the desired crispiness without overcooking the scallops.
What should I do if my scallops are larger or the bacon is thicker than usual?
For larger scallops or thicker bacon, you might need to bake them for up to 15 minutes instead of the standard 12 minutes to ensure they are cooked properly.
Can I prepare bacon wrapped scallops using a grill instead of an oven?
Yes, during grilling season, you can make Grilled Bacon Wrapped Scallops as an alternative to baking them in the oven.
What are some suitable side dishes to serve with bacon wrapped scallops?
Bacon wrapped scallops pair well with Greek Salad, Spinach Salad, or Crab Salad for a seafood combo. For a more indulgent meal, consider serving them with Pasta Aglio e Olio or Cheesy Potatoes. They also make an excellent appetizer.

Choose ‘Dry’ Scallops: Opt for ‘dry’ sea scallops, which haven’t been treated with sodium tripolyphosphate. This ensures they cook better and taste fresher.
Pre-Cook Bacon for Crispiness: If you prefer your bacon extra crispy, partially cook it for 3-5 minutes before wrapping it around the scallops. This reduces cooking time for the scallops and achieves a crispier texture for the bacon.
Avoid Overcooking: Bake the bacon-wrapped scallops at 425°F for 12 to 15 minutes depending on the size of the scallops and thickness of the bacon. Overcooking can make the scallops tough.
Use a Lined Baking Sheet: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents the scallops from sticking and makes cleanup easier.