Bacon Wrapped Scallops: A Mouthwatering Appetizer

Bacon-wrapped scallops combine tender scallops with crispy bacon for a flavorful appetizer. Easy to make, this impressive dish is perfect for any occasion

Bacon-Wrapped Scallops: The Ultimate Party Appetizer

Bacon-wrapped scallops are a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s as delicious as it is easy to make. The combination of tender, sweet scallops wrapped in crispy, smoky bacon creates a mouthwatering bite that’s perfect for any gathering.

This simple yet impressive dish comes together quickly, making it an ideal choice for both experienced cooks and kitchen novices. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or celebrating the holidays, these savory morsels are guaranteed to leave a lasting impression on your guests.

Quick and Easy to Prepare

One of the best things about bacon-wrapped scallops is their simplicity. In just a few steps—wrapping the scallops in partially cooked bacon, seasoning them with a flavorful butter mixture, and baking—you can create a dish that feels gourmet.

With minimal prep and cleanup, you’ll have more time to spend with your guests while still serving something that looks and tastes spectacular.

A Show-Stopping Party Favorite

These bite-sized delights are a guaranteed hit at any event. Their combination of crispy, golden bacon and perfectly cooked scallops strikes the ideal balance of textures and flavors.

The sophisticated presentation of bacon-wrapped scallops makes them the star of any appetizer spread, impressing guests without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Irresistibly Mouthwatering

Each bite of bacon-wrapped scallops delivers a delicious contrast of smoky, salty bacon and delicate, sweet scallop.

The hint of garlic, paprika, and butter elevates their flavor profile, creating an appetizer that’s as indulgent as it is satisfying. It’s no wonder guests keep coming back for more!

Create Special Memories

Making bacon-wrapped scallops is as enjoyable as eating them. Whether you’re preparing them solo or cooking alongside friends and family, the process is quick, fun, and interactive.

Wrapping the scallops in bacon is a simple task that everyone can get involved in, turning the preparation into a memory-making experience.

A Fun and Rewarding Cooking Project

With their ease of preparation and guaranteed wow factor, bacon-wrapped scallops are perfect for any occasion. They’re a joy to cook and even more enjoyable to share, ensuring your gatherings are filled with great food and happy memories.

Serve them as an appetizer or pair them with other dishes for a meal that will truly impress!

What Makes Bacon Wrapped Scallops Special

Bacon wrapped scallops are a true culinary masterpiece. They mix amazing flavors in one bite. This dish turns simple ingredients into a gourmet delight that will wow your guests and excite your taste buds.

Perfect Balance of Flavors

The magic of bacon wrapped scallops is in their amazing flavor mix. Sweet, tender sea scallops are the base, complemented by the rich, smoky bacon. This mix offers a delicious contrast that makes every bite unforgettable.

Elegant Yet Easy to Prepare

These scallops look fancy but are quick to make. They're perfect for home cooks of any skill level. You can whip up a dish that looks like it came from a restaurant in under 30 minutes.

Versatile Serving Suggestions

Bacon wrapped scallops are great for any occasion. They're perfect for a dinner party or as an appetizer for a crowd. You can serve them as a starter, main course, or with salads and pasta for a complete meal that will impress.

Pro tip: Serve 2-3 larger scallops per person as a main dish, or 1-3 as an appetizer.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 (approximately 12 bacon-wrapped scallops)

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Bacon Wrapped Scallops

Starting with the right ingredients is key to making delicious bacon wrapped sea scallops. You'll need top-notch items to create a dish that will wow your guests.

Here's what you'll need for your recipe:

Ingredients

• Scallops: 12 large sea scallops (approximately 1–1.5 pounds)
• Bacon: 6 slices (cut in half to wrap each scallop)
• Butter: 2 tablespoons, melted
• Garlic: 1 clove, minced
• Paprika: 1 teaspoon
• Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon (freshly squeezed, if possible)
• Salt: ½ teaspoon
• Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon
• Optional Garnish: Fresh parsley or chives, chopped

To add more flavor, consider these seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 3 tablespoon brown sugar
• Optional herbs like thyme or rosemary
• Fresh cracked pepper

Choose dry-packed sea scallops that are pink and fresh. Applewood smoked bacon adds a great depth to your dish. It's all about picking ingredients that work well together for a balanced taste.

Pro tip: Use toothpicks to hold the bacon in place while you prepare the scallops. These small steps can make a big difference in how your dish looks and tastes.

How to Choose and Prepare Fresh Scallops

Choosing the right scallops is key to a tasty seafood dish. Fresh scallops can make your meal go from good to great. Learning how to prepare scallops can help you make meals that taste like they're from a restaurant.

Selecting Quality Sea Scallops

When you're shopping for scallops, look for these important signs:

• Go for dry scallops that look translucent and slightly shiny
• Scallops should smell fresh, not too fishy
• Medium-sized scallops (20/30 count) are the most tender
• They should feel firm and plump, not too wet

Proper Cleaning Techniques

Scallop preparation is all about gentle care to keep their flavor:

1. Rinse them under cold water gently
2. Pat them dry with paper towels
3. Remove the small side muscle if it's there
4. Keep them cold until you're ready to cook

Dry vs. Wet Scallops Explained

It's important to know the difference between dry and wet scallops. Dry scallops are natural and haven't been treated with chemicals. They're perfect for searing because they caramelize well and taste more like real seafood.

Pro tip: Always pick dry scallops for dishes like bacon-wrapped appetizers. They give a golden-brown outside and a rich, natural taste.

The Best Type of Bacon for Wrapping Scallops

Choosing the right bacon is key for bacon-wrapped scallops. The right bacon can make this dish unforgettable. Applewood smoked bacon is the top pick for a great taste.

For the best results, use thin-cut bacon, about 8 inches long. Thick bacon can overpower the scallops' taste. Pre-cooked bacon is also a good choice, helping you avoid undercooked meat.

• Recommended bacon type: Thin-cut Applewood smoked bacon
• Ideal bacon thickness: Approximately 1/16 inch
• Best preparation method: Partially pre-cook for 5 minutes

Start by partially cooking the bacon before wrapping the scallops. This method ensures the bacon gets crispy without overcooking the scallops. Pre-cooked bacon saves time and gives consistent results, making your dish easy to prepare.

With the right bacon, you'll get a dish with a smoky, crispy outside and tender scallops inside. Your guests will love it, and their taste buds will thank you.

Detailed Step-by-Step Instructions: Bacon-Wrapped Scallops

Preparation

1. Preheat the Oven
   • Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). If using a broiler, set it to high for later steps.
   • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easier cleanup. Place a wire rack on top (optional but helps crisp the bacon).
2. Prepare the Bacon
   • Cut 6 slices of bacon in half, making 12 shorter pieces.
   • Partially cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat for about 3–4 minutes. It should be pliable but not crispy. This ensures it will finish cooking in the oven without overcooking the scallops.
   • Transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease.
3. Prepare the Scallops
   • Pat 12 large sea scallops dry with paper towels. Removing moisture helps them sear better.
   • Check for the tough side muscle (the "foot") on each scallop. If present, peel it off gently—it’s chewy and inedible.

Seasoning the Scallops

4. In a small bowl, mix together:
   • 2 tablespoons melted butter
   • 1 clove garlic, minced
   • 1 teaspoon paprika
   • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
   • ½ teaspoon salt
   • ½ teaspoon black pepper
   • Brush this mixture generously over each scallop to coat them.

Wrapping the Scallops

5. Wrap each scallop with a half-slice of bacon:
   • Place the scallop on one end of the bacon strip and roll it up tightly.
   • Secure with a toothpick to hold the bacon in place.

Cooking the Scallops

6. Arrange the wrapped scallops on the prepared baking sheet or rack.
   • Leave some space between them for even cooking.
7. Bake in the preheated oven:
   • Cook for 10–12 minutes, turning them halfway through to ensure even browning.
8. Broil for crispiness (optional):
   • If the bacon isn't crispy enough, switch to the broiler setting and broil for an additional 2–3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Serving the Scallops

9. Remove from the oven and let the scallops cool for 1–2 minutes.
   • Carefully remove the toothpicks before serving.
10. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives, if desired.
    • Serve warm with lemon wedges on the side for added brightness.

Assembly Tips and Tricks

For the best scallop wrapping, leave space between each wrapped scallop on the baking sheet. This helps bacon get crispy and seafood cook evenly. Bake for 8-11 minutes until bacon is crisp and scallops are golden.

Pro tip: Use one bacon strip per scallop for the perfect ratio. Your guests will love these perfectly prepared bacon wrapped scallops!

Cooking Times and Temperature Guidelines

Getting the baking time and oven settings right is key to making delicious bacon-wrapped scallops. You need to control the temperature and timing carefully. The best oven temperature for these tasty appetizers is 425°F. This ensures the bacon gets crispy and the scallops stay tender.

When cooking your bacon-wrapped scallops, keep these tips in mind:

• Total cooking time: 12-15 minutes
• Ideal internal scallop temperature: 125°F-130°F
• Recommended oven temperature: 425°F

Different ovens might need slight adjustments. Electric ovens might take 14-20 minutes, while gas ovens could need 12-18 minutes. Always rotate your baking tray halfway through cooking for even browning. The scallops are done when they turn opaque and the bacon crisps up.

Pro tip: Use wooden toothpicks soaked in water for 30 minutes to keep the bacon in place. This helps prevent it from unraveling and keeps your dish looking great.

Remember, the size of your scallops and the thickness of the bacon can affect cooking times. A meat thermometer is your best tool for getting the scallops just right every time.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Bacon wrapped scallops are best when paired with the right side dishes and wines. A few smart choices can make your appetizer presentation stand out. This turns a simple dish into a showstopper.

Complementary Side Dishes

Here are some tasty side dishes to go with your bacon wrapped scallops:

• Roasted asparagus with garlic butter
• Creamy mashed potatoes
• Golden rice pilaf
• Steamed green beans
• Fresh kale apple salad with honey dressing

Wine Pairing Recommendations

Choosing the right wine can really bring out the flavors of your scallops. Here are some wines that pair well with the scallops and bacon:

1. Crisp Sauvignon Blanc
2. Unoaked Chardonnay
3. Sparkling Brut
4. Pinot Grigio

Presentation Tips

Here's how to make your appetizer look impressive:

• Arrange scallops on a white ceramic platter
• Use decorative toothpicks for easy serving
• Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives
• Serve 3-4 scallops per person as an appetizer

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Proper food safety is key when handling leftovers, especially bacon-wrapped scallops. Store them in an airtight container and refrigerate quickly. Keep them at or below 40°F to stop bacterial growth. These tasty appetizers can last 3-4 days in the fridge.

Choosing the right reheating method is important. Oven reheating is the favorite for 70% of home cooks. It keeps the bacon crispy. Preheat your oven to 350°F and warm the scallops for 10-12 minutes. Make sure they reach 165°F for safety.

For a quicker option, try stovetop reheating. About 60% of people prefer this method. Heat the scallops for 3 minutes on each side over medium heat. Let them sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before reheating to keep them tender.

Try to avoid microwave reheating to prevent a rubbery texture. If you must use a microwave, use 50% power and heat in short intervals. Follow these tips to enjoy your bacon-wrapped scallops just as much the second time.

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