Bacon wrapped grilled scallops are a tasty treat that’s easy to make at home. You’ll love the mix of smoky bacon and sweet scallops cooked on the grill. These little bites are perfect for a fancy dinner or a fun party snack.
To grill bacon wrapped scallops, wrap each scallop with bacon and secure it with a toothpick. Then cook them on a medium-high heat grill for about 8 minutes, turning once. The bacon gets crispy while the scallops stay juicy inside.
You can make these even yummier by adding some extra flavors. Try brushing them with maple syrup for a sweet touch, or use lemon and herbs for a fresh taste.
Serve your bacon wrapped scallops hot off the grill with a salad on the side for a quick and tasty meal.
Selecting and Preparing Scallops
Picking the right scallops and getting them ready for grilling can make a big difference in your bacon-wrapped dish. Here’s what you need to know about choosing and prepping scallops.
Choosing Fresh vs. Frozen Scallops
Fresh scallops are great when you can get them, but frozen ones work well too. Look for sea scallops – they’re bigger and better for grilling.
If you’re at the fish counter, ask for “dry-packed” scallops. These haven’t been treated with sodium tripolyphosphate, which adds water weight.
Frozen scallops are handy and often just as tasty. They’re usually frozen right after being caught, keeping them fresh. When buying frozen, check the package for any ice crystals – that’s a sign they’ve thawed and refrozen.
Bay scallops are smaller and sweeter, but they’re tricky to grill. Stick with large sea scallops for your bacon-wrapped treat.
Preparing Scallops for Wrapping
Once you’ve got your scallops, it’s time to get them ready. If they’re frozen, thaw them in the fridge overnight.
Pat them dry with paper towels to remove extra moisture. This helps the bacon stick better and gives you a nice sear.
Season your scallops lightly with kosher salt and pepper. Don’t go overboard – you want to taste the scallop’s natural sweetness.
Now for the wrapping part. Cut your bacon strips in half – one strip is usually enough for two scallops. Wrap each scallop with a bacon piece and secure it with a toothpick.
Tip: If your bacon is thick, you might want to partially cook it first. This ensures it’ll crisp up nicely on the grill without overcooking your scallops.
Crafting the Perfect Bacon Wrap
Wrapping scallops in bacon adds flavor and keeps them moist while grilling. The right bacon and technique make all the difference.
Selecting the Bacon
Pick thinly sliced bacon for the best results. Thin slices wrap around scallops easily and cook faster. This helps avoid burning.
Look for bacon with a good balance of fat and meat. Too much fat can make the wrap greasy. Too little won’t give enough flavor.
Smoky bacon works well for extra flavor. Applewood or hickory-smoked varieties pair nicely with seafood.
Pre-cook the bacon slightly before wrapping. This ensures crispy bacon without overcooking the scallops. Cook it for about 5 minutes in a pan or under the broiler. Let it cool before handling.
Wrapping Techniques
Start by patting the scallops dry with paper towels. This helps the bacon stick better.
Cut the partially cooked bacon strips in half. Wrap each piece around a scallop, overlapping the ends.
Secure the bacon with a toothpick. Soak wooden toothpicks in water first to prevent burning.
For extra flavor, brush the wrapped scallops with olive oil or melted butter. You can also add seasonings like garlic or herbs.
Arrange the scallops on skewers for easy flipping on the grill. Leave space between each one to ensure even cooking.
Remember to remove the toothpicks before serving. Your guests will appreciate not biting into one!
Cooking Methods for Bacon-Wrapped Scallops
Bacon-wrapped scallops are a tasty treat you can make using different cooking techniques. Each method offers its own benefits and flavors.
Grilling to Perfection
Grilling bacon-wrapped scallops is a popular choice for outdoor cooking. Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat, around 425°F.
Pat the scallops dry and season them with salt and pepper. Wrap each scallop with a piece of bacon and secure it with a toothpick.
To prevent sticking, brush the wrapped scallops with olive oil. Place them on the grill and cook for about 4 minutes per side.
For extra flavor, you can brush them with a glaze like maple syrup halfway through cooking.
Keep an eye on the bacon to make sure it cooks evenly. If it’s browning too quickly, move the scallops to a cooler part of the grill. The scallops are done when the bacon is crispy and the scallops are opaque.
Alternative Cooking Options
If you don’t have a grill, you have other ways to cook your bacon-wrapped scallops. One option is broiling.
Preheat your broiler and place the scallops on a foil-lined baking sheet. Broil for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
You can also use an air fryer for a quick and easy method. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F. Cook the scallops for about 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
For all methods, make sure the bacon is crispy and the scallops are cooked through. The internal temperature of the scallops should reach 145°F.
Serve your bacon-wrapped scallops hot and enjoy your tasty creation!
Seasonings and Sauces
Tasty seasonings and sauces can make bacon-wrapped grilled scallops even more delicious. The right flavors will bring out the best in both the scallops and bacon.
Creating the Marinade
A good marinade helps the scallops stay moist and adds flavor. Mix olive oil, garlic, and black pepper in a bowl. Add the scallops and coat them well. Let them sit for 15-30 minutes before wrapping in bacon.
For extra flavor, try these ideas:
- Add lemon juice or zest to the marinade
- Use herbs like thyme or rosemary
- Mix in a bit of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce
Don’t marinate too long or the scallops may get mushy. Pat them dry before wrapping in bacon to help the bacon stick better.
Complementary Sauces
A tasty sauce can take your bacon-wrapped scallops to the next level. Garlic butter is a classic choice.
Other yummy options include:
- Lemon aioli
- Chipotle mayo
- Alder wood smoked maple syrup for a sweet and smoky taste
Serve your sauces on the side or brush them on during the last minute of grilling. Don’t forget to offer lemon wedges for squeezing over the finished scallops. The citrus adds a bright, fresh flavor that cuts through the richness of the bacon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Grilling bacon wrapped scallops can be tricky. Here are some tips to help you cook them perfectly and pair them with tasty sides.
What is the best way to grill bacon wrapped scallops on a gas grill?
To grill bacon wrapped scallops on a gas grill, start by preheating it to medium-high heat (about 425°F).
Create an indirect heat zone by turning off some burners. Place the bacon-wrapped scallops on the cooler side first to cook the bacon. Then move them to the hot side to finish cooking and get a nice sear.
How long should bacon wrapped scallops be grilled to achieve the perfect doneness?
Grill bacon wrapped scallops for about 8 minutes total. Cook them for 4 minutes on each side.
Use a meat thermometer to check that they reach an internal temperature of 145°F. If needed, grill for a few more minutes until they’re done.
Can you BBQ bacon wrapped scallops in the oven, and if so, how?
Yes, you can cook bacon wrapped scallops in the oven. Preheat the oven to 425°F.
Put the scallops on a rack on a baking sheet. Bake them for about 15-20 minutes, until the bacon is crispy and the scallops are cooked through.
What are some recommended techniques for cooking bacon wrapped scallops in a pan?
To cook bacon wrapped scallops in a pan, use a heavy skillet over medium heat. Cook the scallops for about 3-4 minutes per side.
Make sure the bacon is crispy and the scallops are opaque. You can also start them in the pan and finish in the oven for even cooking.
Which sauces pair well with bacon wrapped scallops for an enhanced flavor?
Lemon butter sauce goes great with bacon wrapped scallops. You could also try a garlic aioli or a sweet chili sauce.
A balsamic glaze can add a nice tangy flavor. For a smoky touch, try brushing them with alder wood smoked maple syrup while grilling.
What are some tasty side dishes to serve alongside scallops wrapped in bacon?
A fresh garden salad pairs well with bacon wrapped scallops. Grilled vegetables like asparagus or zucchini make great sides too.
You could also serve them with rice pilaf or roasted potatoes. For a light option, try a cucumber and tomato salad.
