Seafood

Bacon-Wrapped Scallops

Name: Bacon-Wrapped Scallops
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 large scallops; 6 slices of thick-cut bacon; 2 cloves of garlic, minced; 1 lemon, juiced; 1/4 cup of white wine; 1/4 cup of chicken broth; 2 tbsp of olive oil; 1 tsp of dried thyme; 1 tsp of salt; 1/2 tsp of black pepper; 2 tbsp of chopped fresh parsley

By Hannah Voss · June 18, 2026 · Seafood

Prep20 min

Cook15 min

Total35 min

Serves4

I still remember the first time I made bacon-wrapped scallops for my family. The combination of tender scallops, crispy bacon, and a hint of lemon was a hit. Since then, it's become a staple in our household, especially on special occasions. The best part? It's incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.

As a home cook, I've always been fascinated by the art of low-carb keto cooking. It's not just about restricting certain food groups, but about exploring new flavors and techniques that bring out the best in each ingredient. In this recipe, we'll dive into the world of bacon-wrapped scallops, where the sweetness of the scallops pairs perfectly with the smokiness of the bacon.

Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to impress their guests or simply enjoy a delicious meal. The key to success lies in the quality of the ingredients and the technique, which we'll explore in detail below.

So, what makes this recipe special? For starters, it's a masterclass in balance and restraint. By using just a few high-quality ingredients, we can create a dish that's both elegant and flavorful. The scallops provide a nice texture, while the bacon adds a smoky, savory element that complements the seafood perfectly.

In this article, we'll take a closer look at the technique behind bacon-wrapped scallops, including the importance of proper seasoning, the role of fat in cooking, and the art of presenting a dish that's both visually appealing and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.
The combination of scallops, bacon, and lemon is a match made in heaven.
It's perfect for a low-carb keto dinner or a special occasion.
The dish is elegant and flavorful, making it perfect for impressing guests.
It's a great way to explore new flavors and techniques in the kitchen.
The recipe is versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides and drinks.

Why This Recipe Works

The secret to making great bacon-wrapped scallops lies in the cooking technique. By searing the scallops in a hot skillet with some oil, we can create a nice crust on the outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy. The bacon, on the other hand, adds a smoky flavor that complements the scallops perfectly.

Another important aspect of this recipe is the use of lemon and garlic. These ingredients add a brightness and depth to the dish that elevates it from a simple seafood recipe to a sophisticated meal. The lemon juice helps to cut through the richness of the bacon, while the garlic adds a pungency that enhances the overall flavor.

Finally, the key to making this recipe work is to not overcook the scallops. By cooking them for just a few minutes on each side, we can ensure that they remain tender and juicy. The bacon, on the other hand, should be crispy and golden brown, which adds a nice texture to the dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this recipe, you'll need a few high-quality ingredients, including fresh scallops, thick-cut bacon, and some aromatics like garlic and lemon. The key is to use the best ingredients you can find, as this will elevate the dish and make it truly special.

When shopping for scallops, look for ones that are fresh and have a nice smell. You can also ask your fishmonger for advice on the best type of scallops to use for this recipe. For the bacon, choose a thick-cut variety that's smoked or cured, as this will add a nice depth to the dish.

12 large scallopsLook for fresh scallops that have a nice smell and a firm texture. You can also use frozen scallops, but make sure to thaw them first.
6 slices of thick-cut baconChoose a smoked or cured bacon for the best flavor. You can also use regular bacon, but it won't have the same depth of flavor.
2 cloves of garlic, mincedUse fresh garlic for the best flavor. You can also use garlic powder or garlic salt, but fresh garlic is preferred.
1 lemon, juicedUse a fresh lemon and juice it just before using. You can also use bottled lemon juice, but fresh is always better.
1/4 cup of white wineUse a dry white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. You can also use chicken broth or omit this ingredient altogether.
1/4 cup of chicken brothUse a low-sodium chicken broth to avoid adding too much salt to the dish. You can also use vegetable broth or omit this ingredient altogether.
2 tbsp of olive oilUse a high-quality olive oil for the best flavor. You can also use avocado oil or grapeseed oil, but olive oil is preferred.
1 tsp of dried thymeUse fresh thyme if you have it, but dried thyme will work just as well. You can also omit this ingredient if you don't have it.
1 tsp of saltUse a flaky sea salt or kosher salt for the best flavor. You can also use regular salt, but it won't have the same texture.
1/2 tsp of black pepperUse freshly ground black pepper for the best flavor. You can also use pre-ground pepper, but it won't have the same flavor.
2 tbsp of chopped fresh parsleyUse fresh parsley for the best flavor. You can also use dried parsley, but fresh is preferred.

Equipment You’ll Need

Large heavy skillet or wokSharp chef's knifeCutting boardMeasuring cups and spoonsWooden spoon or spatulaOven-safe baking dish

How to Make Bacon-Wrapped Scallops

1
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2
Rinse the scallops under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel. Season with salt and pepper.
3
Cut the bacon into smaller pieces, about 1-2 inches long. You'll need 2-3 pieces of bacon per scallop.
4
In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until it's crispy and golden brown. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
5
In the same skillet, add the olive oil and cook the garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
6
Add the white wine and chicken broth to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Bring the liquid to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes until it's reduced by half.
7
Wrap each scallop with 2-3 pieces of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if needed. Place the bacon-wrapped scallops on a baking dish lined with parchment paper.
8
Drizzle the lemon juice over the scallops and sprinkle with thyme and parsley.
9
Bake the scallops in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes until they're cooked through and the bacon is crispy.
10
Remove the toothpicks and serve the scallops hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
11
Let the scallops rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Expert Tips

Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
Don't overcook the scallops, as they can become tough and rubbery.
Let the scallops rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Use a variety of seasonings and herbs to add depth to the dish.
Don't be afraid to experiment and try new ingredients or techniques.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the scallops are cooked to a safe internal temperature.
Let the bacon cool completely before wrapping it around the scallops to prevent it from becoming soggy.
Use a sharp knife to cut the bacon and scallops, as this will help prevent them from tearing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the scallops, which can make them tough and rubbery.
Not using high-quality ingredients, which can affect the flavor of the dish.
Not letting the scallops rest before serving, which can cause them to become dry and tough.
Not using enough bacon, which can make the dish bland and unappetizing.
Not cooking the bacon until it's crispy, which can make it soggy and unappetizing.
Not seasoning the scallops enough, which can make them bland and unappetizing.

Variations and Substitutions

Using different types of bacon, such as smoked or cured bacon, to add a unique flavor to the dish.
Adding other ingredients, such as garlic or herbs, to the bacon for extra flavor.
Using different types of seafood, such as shrimp or fish, instead of scallops.
Adding a sauce or marinade to the scallops before cooking to add extra flavor.
Using different types of citrus, such as lime or orange, instead of lemon.
Adding some heat to the dish, such as red pepper flakes or hot sauce, to give it a spicy kick.
Using different types of cheese, such as parmesan or feta, to add a salty and tangy flavor to the dish.

What to Serve With Bacon-Wrapped Scallops

This dish is perfect for serving with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a salad. You can also serve it with a sauce or marinade, such as a citrus-herb sauce or a garlic butter sauce.

Some other ideas for serving this dish include serving it with a side of quinoa or rice, or adding some crusty bread to mop up the juices. You can also serve it with a variety of drinks, such as a glass of wine or a cocktail.

Roasted vegetablesMashed potatoesSaladQuinoa or riceCrusty breadCitrus-herb sauce

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Simply wrap the bacon-wrapped scallops in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate until ready to cook.

To freeze the dish, wrap the bacon-wrapped scallops in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen scallops can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw the scallops overnight in the refrigerator and cook as directed.

When reheating the dish, make sure to cook the scallops until they're heated through and the bacon is crispy. You can reheat them in the oven or on the stovetop, depending on your preference.

It's also important to note that the dish can be made ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen until ready to cook. This makes it a great option for meal prep or for cooking for a crowd.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of bacon should I use for this recipe?

You can use any type of bacon you like, but thick-cut bacon works best for this recipe. Look for bacon that's smoked or cured for the best flavor.

Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen scallops for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them first and pat them dry with a paper towel before cooking.

How do I know if the scallops are cooked through?

The scallops are cooked through when they're opaque and firm to the touch. You can also check the internal temperature, which should be at least 120°F (49°C).

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time. Simply wrap the bacon-wrapped scallops in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate or freeze until ready to cook.

What type of wine should I use for this recipe?

You can use any type of white wine you like, but a dry white wine such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc works best for this recipe.

Can I omit the white wine and chicken broth?

Yes, you can omit the white wine and chicken broth if you prefer. Simply use more olive oil or add some other ingredients to the skillet to add flavor.

How do I prevent the bacon from becoming soggy?

To prevent the bacon from becoming soggy, make sure to cook it until it's crispy before wrapping it around the scallops. You can also let the bacon cool completely before wrapping it around the scallops.

Can I use different types of seafood for this recipe?

Yes, you can use different types of seafood for this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time and temperature according to the type of seafood you're using.

The Full Recipe

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