Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Scallops
A quick and easy appetizer featuring tender sea scallops wrapped in crispy bacon, perfect for entertaining or a delicious snack.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Total Time: 17-20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings (1 scallop each) 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 large sea scallops, patted dry
- 12 slices thin-cut bacon
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Fresh lemon, for squeezing
- Toothpicks, for securing bacon
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F or air fryer to 400°F.
- Pat scallops dry with paper towels.
- In a bowl, toss scallops with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika if using.
- Wrap each scallop with one slice of bacon and secure with a toothpick.
- Arrange scallops on a wire rack over a foil-lined baking sheet or in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Brush or spray bacon with olive oil to help crisp the exterior.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or air fry for 8-10 minutes, turning once halfway through if needed, until bacon is golden and scallops are opaque with a slight spring.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over scallops before serving. Serve hot with toothpicks.
Notes
Use dry-packed scallops and pat completely dry to ensure crispiness. Thin-cut bacon crisps best; pre-cook thick bacon slices slightly if needed. Watch cooking time closely to avoid rubbery scallops or burnt bacon. Can substitute turkey bacon or pancetta. Store leftovers in airtight container refrigerated up to 2 days; reheat gently in oven.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bacon-wrapped scal
- Calories: 80
- Sodium: 300
- Fat: 6
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Protein: 6
Keywords: bacon wrapped scallops, crispy scallops, easy appetizer, quick seafood recipe, party food, finger food