Bacon wrapped scallops are simply the ultimate appetizer! There’s something magical about the combination of tender, juicy scallops wrapped snugly in crispy, smoky bacon. I remember the first time I served these at a gathering; everyone couldn’t get enough! They disappeared faster than I could put them on the table. Seriously, the way the rich flavor of the bacon complements the delicate sweetness of the scallops is pure perfection. Whether you’re hosting a fancy dinner or a casual get-together, these little bites of heaven are always a crowd-pleaser. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll want to make bacon wrapped scallops a staple at every occasion. Let’s dive into how to make these delicious treats that are sure to impress!
Ingredients List
- 12 large scallops
- 6 slices of bacon, cut in half
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Prepare Bacon Wrapped Scallops
- First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is key for getting that bacon nice and crispy!
- While the oven heats up, take your scallops and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is super important because it helps the bacon stick better and ensures they roast nicely without extra moisture.
- Now, grab those bacon slices and wrap a half slice around each scallop, securing it with a toothpick. Make sure the bacon overlaps just a bit to keep everything together while cooking.
- Next, lay your bacon-wrapped scallops on a baking sheet. I like to line mine with parchment paper for easy cleanup, but it’s not mandatory.
- Drizzle the scallops with olive oil and sprinkle them with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This is where the magic happens, so don’t be shy with the seasoning!
- Pop them in the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the bacon looks beautifully crispy. Keep an eye on them, as oven times can vary!
And there you have it! Serve them hot and watch them disappear in seconds. Just remember, if you’re using larger scallops, you might need to adjust the cooking time a bit!
Nutritional Information
These bacon wrapped scallops are not just a treat for your taste buds; they’re also relatively light, making them a great appetizer option! Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional values per serving (which is 2 scallops):
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the size of the scallops and the type of bacon you use. But overall, you can enjoy these delicious bites without too much guilt!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to make, perfect for last-minute gatherings!
- Flavorful combination of crispy bacon and tender scallops that will elevate your appetizer game.
- Always a hit at parties and gatherings; these little bites disappear fast!
- Paleo-friendly option, so you can indulge without the guilt!
- Low in carbohydrates, making them a smart choice for any diet.
Tips for Success
Want to make sure your bacon wrapped scallops turn out absolutely perfect? Here are some of my favorite pro tips that I’ve learned along the way:
- Use fresh scallops: Trust me, fresh scallops make all the difference! They taste sweeter and have a much better texture than frozen ones. If you can, visit your local seafood market for the best quality.
- Adjust cooking time: If your scallops are larger or smaller than average, don’t be afraid to tweak the cooking time a bit. Just keep an eye on them and look for that crispy bacon finish, which is the real star here!
- Experiment with spices: Want to elevate the flavor? Go ahead and experiment! You can add a pinch of paprika, cayenne for a kick, or even some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic touch. The world is your oyster—or should I say, scallop!
- Mind the toothpicks: Make sure to soak your toothpicks in water for about 10 minutes before using them. This prevents them from burning in the oven and keeps everything secure!
- Serve immediately: These little gems are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while the bacon is crispy and the scallops are tender. So, gather your friends and dig in right away!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to switch things up a bit, here are some fun variations for your bacon wrapped scallops that’ll add a personal twist to this classic dish:
- Glaze or Sauce: Why not add a sweet or tangy glaze? A honey garlic glaze or a spicy sriracha sauce drizzled over the top just before serving can elevate these scallops to a whole new level. Just brush it on in the last few minutes of baking for that perfect caramelized finish!
- Different Types of Bacon: Feeling a little healthier? Try using turkey bacon instead of regular bacon! It will still give you that crispy texture, but with a lighter touch. You could even experiment with flavored bacon—think maple or peppered bacon for an extra punch!
- Herbs and Spices: Don’t hesitate to incorporate some fresh herbs or spices into the bacon wrap! Adding a sprinkle of fresh rosemary, thyme, or even a dash of smoked paprika can really enhance the flavor profile. Just tuck a small sprig of herb under the bacon as you wrap it around the scallop!
- Cheese Stuffing: For an indulgent twist, consider stuffing the scallops with a bit of cream cheese or goat cheese before wrapping them in bacon. This will create a creamy center that pairs beautifully with the crispy outer layer!
- Veggie Add-ins: You can also get creative by wrapping the scallops with a slice of bell pepper or jalapeño before the bacon. This adds a nice crunch and a pop of flavor that can really surprise your guests!
So, go ahead and have fun with these variations! Each twist will give you a new way to enjoy bacon wrapped scallops, keeping your gatherings exciting and delicious.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving your bacon wrapped scallops, the possibilities are endless! I love pairing them with a fresh salad that adds a crisp, refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the scallops. A simple mixed greens salad with a zesty vinaigrette works wonders!
And let’s not forget about dipping sauces! A creamy aioli or a tangy cocktail sauce can really take your appetizer to the next level. You can even whip up a quick homemade sauce with mayo, a squeeze of lemon, and a hint of garlic—so delicious!
If you want to add a little more substance to your spread, grilled vegetables are a fantastic choice. Think zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus—just toss them on the grill for a few minutes until they’re tender and slightly charred. They not only taste amazing but also add beautiful colors to your table!
Whatever you choose to serve alongside, just know that your bacon wrapped scallops will shine as the star of the show. Enjoy your delightful feast!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare, trust me!), storing them properly is essential to keep that delicious flavor intact. First, allow your bacon wrapped scallops to cool down to room temperature. Then, place them in an airtight container. I like to layer them with a piece of parchment paper between the layers to prevent sticking—just a little trick I learned along the way!
These scallops can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them! Just make sure to wrap each scallop tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last in the freezer for about a month, but I bet they won’t last that long!
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating them is key to maintaining that perfect texture. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the scallops on a baking sheet. Cover them loosely with foil to prevent the bacon from overcooking while ensuring the scallops heat through. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until they’re warmed up and the bacon is crispy again. You can also use an air fryer for a quicker option—just a few minutes at 350°F should do the trick!
And voilà! You’re all set to enjoy your bacon wrapped scallops again without sacrificing that delectable flavor and texture!
FAQ Section
Can I make bacon wrapped scallops ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep the scallops by wrapping them in bacon and securing them with toothpicks. Just cover them and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before you plan to bake them. When you’re ready, simply pop them in the oven as directed!
What’s the best way to choose scallops?
When selecting scallops, look for ones that are firm and slightly translucent with a sweet, ocean-like aroma. Fresh scallops should have a clean, briny smell—avoid any that smell overly fishy or have a dull appearance. If possible, choose dry scallops, which haven’t been treated with preservatives and will have a much better flavor!
Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen scallops! Just be sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking. Pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove any excess moisture, which helps the bacon adhere better and prevents steaming during baking.
How do I know when the scallops are done?
You’ll know your bacon wrapped scallops are done when the bacon is crispy and the scallops are opaque and firm to the touch. If you’re using a meat thermometer, the internal temperature should reach about 145°F (63°C). Keep an eye on them towards the end of cooking to avoid overcooking!
Can I use other types of seafood?
Definitely! While scallops are a classic choice, you can also try this recipe with shrimp or even chunks of fish wrapped in bacon. Just adjust the cooking times as needed based on the seafood you choose.
Bacon Wrapped Scallops: 6 Irresistible Bites of Joy
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Paleo
Description
Bacon wrapped scallops are a delicious appetizer featuring tender scallops wrapped in crispy bacon.
Ingredients
- 12 large scallops
- 6 slices of bacon, cut in half
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat scallops dry with paper towels.
- Wrap each scallop with a half slice of bacon.
- Secure bacon with toothpicks.
- Place scallops on a baking sheet.
- Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until bacon is crispy.
Notes
- Serve with a dipping sauce of your choice.
- Adjust cooking time based on the size of the scallops.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 scallops
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: bacon wrapped scallops, appetizer, seafood
