These Bacon-Wrapped Scallops are the perfect combination of savory and sweet, making them an irresistible appetizer or party snack. The crispy, salty bacon pairs beautifully with the tender scallops, while the touch of maple syrup adds a subtle sweetness that elevates the dish. Quick to prepare and guaranteed to impress, these scallops are the ultimate treat for any occasion!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 12 large scallops
- 6 strips of bacon, cut in half
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Toothpicks (for securing bacon)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Wrap each scallop with half a slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick.
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the scallops on both sides for 2-3 minutes until the bacon starts to crisp.
- Transfer the seared scallops to a baking sheet. Drizzle each with a small amount of maple syrup and season with salt and pepper.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the scallops are cooked through and the bacon is crispy.
- Remove from the oven, remove toothpicks, and serve immediately.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes
Kcal: 200 kcal per serving
Servings: 4
Bacon-Wrapped Scallops
These Bacon-Wrapped Scallops are the perfect combination of savory, sweet, and indulgent flavors. A crowd-pleasing dish that’s simple to prepare, yet feels like a gourmet treat! Fresh scallops are wrapped in crispy, smoky bacon and roasted in the oven until perfectly tender. A drizzle of maple syrup adds a subtle sweetness that complements the rich, savory bacon, creating an irresistible contrast of flavors. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, a holiday gathering, or simply want a delicious, upscale appetizer, these bacon-wrapped scallops will steal the show.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Easy: With only a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can have this elegant dish ready in under 30 minutes.
- Perfect for Entertaining: These scallops make an excellent starter for dinner parties or festive meals.
- A Flavor Explosion: The balance between the salty, crispy bacon and the delicate, slightly sweet scallops is absolutely divine. The maple syrup adds just the right touch of sweetness to round out the flavors.
- Customizable: Feel free to experiment by adding herbs like rosemary or thyme for an extra aromatic boost, or a squeeze of lemon juice for a zesty twist.
Tips for Success:
- Fresh Scallops: Make sure you’re using fresh, high-quality scallops for the best flavor. Frozen scallops can work too, but be sure to thaw them properly and pat them dry before wrapping in bacon.
- Bacon Crispiness: If you prefer your bacon extra crispy, you can cook it slightly longer in the skillet before wrapping it around the scallops. Just be sure not to overcook the scallops during the baking process.
- Maple Syrup: While maple syrup gives a unique, sweet twist to this dish, feel free to substitute with honey or a balsamic glaze for a different flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions:
These bacon-wrapped scallops are wonderful on their own as a main dish or appetizer, but you can pair them with a variety of sides to make a complete meal. Consider serving them alongside a fresh green salad, garlic butter roasted vegetables, or a creamy risotto for an extra special touch.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Fresh Scallops: The star of the dish! Fresh scallops are delicate in flavor and tender in texture, making them the ideal pairing with crispy bacon.
- Bacon: Bacon adds a smoky, savory flavor and crispy texture that complements the softness of the scallops. Use thick-cut bacon for extra crunch and richness.
- Maple Syrup: A touch of maple syrup elevates the dish with a hint of sweetness that balances out the savory bacon and delicate scallops. The maple glaze also adds a beautiful shine to the finished dish.
- Olive Oil: For searing the scallops before baking, olive oil provides a smooth base that helps prevent sticking and adds a light richness.
- Salt & Pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the scallops and bacon.
How to Make Bacon-Wrapped Scallops:
- Preparation: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the scallops dry to ensure they sear properly in the skillet. This is a crucial step to avoid soggy scallops!
- Wrap the Scallops: Cut your bacon strips in half (so you have 12 half-strips) and wrap each scallop tightly with one half-strip. Use a toothpick to secure the bacon around each scallop, ensuring it stays in place during cooking.
- Sear the Scallops: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the scallops and sear for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the bacon begins to crisp up. This step locks in the flavor and gives the bacon a head start in getting crispy.
- Bake: Transfer the seared scallops to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Drizzle each scallop with a small amount of maple syrup and season with salt and pepper. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the scallops are fully cooked (opaque and tender) and the bacon is crispy.
- Serve: Once out of the oven, remove the toothpicks and serve immediately. These scallops are perfect as an appetizer, main course, or even as a luxurious addition to a salad.
Tips for Perfect Bacon-Wrapped Scallops:
- Use Fresh Scallops: Always try to use fresh scallops for this dish. Fresh scallops have a delicate, sweet flavor that frozen scallops can sometimes lack.
- Dry the Scallops: Pat your scallops dry with paper towels before wrapping them in bacon. This step helps to achieve a nice sear and prevents the scallops from becoming waterlogged during cooking.
- Bacon Crispiness: If you prefer extra crispy bacon, you can pre-cook the bacon slightly before wrapping it around the scallops. This ensures that the bacon crisps up perfectly in the oven.
- Maple Syrup Substitution: While maple syrup provides a lovely sweetness, you can also try honey or a balsamic glaze for a different twist.
Why You Should Make Bacon-Wrapped Scallops:
- Perfect for Entertaining: These scallops are a sophisticated and impressive appetizer that’s sure to wow your guests. They’re perfect for dinner parties, holiday gatherings, or special celebrations.
- Simple Yet Elegant: With minimal ingredients and preparation, you can create a dish that feels fancy without a lot of effort.
- Flavor-Packed: The contrast between the smoky bacon and tender, slightly sweet scallops is a flavor combination that never disappoints.
- Versatile: Pair these scallops with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or even over a bed of pasta for a complete meal.
Pairing Suggestions:
- Wine: These Bacon-Wrapped Scallops pair wonderfully with a light, crisp white wine such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. If you prefer red, a Pinot Noir with its light tannins can also complement the smoky bacon.
- Side Dishes: For a well-rounded meal, serve with roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts, a light citrusy salad, or mashed potatoes for comfort.
Conclusion
Bacon-Wrapped Scallops are the perfect balance of sweet and savory, making them an easy yet elegant appetizer for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, this dish is quick to prepare and sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a family meal, these scallops will add a touch of gourmet flair to your table. Pair them with a light salad or a crisp white wine for a complete experience. Enjoy these flavorful bites as they quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection!