1. Introduction to the Recipe
Few appetizers strike the perfect balance between indulgence and simplicity quite like Bacon-Wrapped Scallop Skewers. This recipe brings together two universally loved ingredients—buttery, tender sea scallops and smoky, crisp bacon—into one irresistible bite. Finished with melted butter and garlic herb seasoning, these skewers deliver bold flavor with minimal fuss, making them ideal for entertaining, holiday spreads, or celebratory dinners. The contrast of textures alone—crispy bacon wrapped around a juicy scallop—is enough to make this dish a standout before guests even take their first bite.
What makes Bacon-Wrapped Scallop Skewers especially appealing is their versatility. They can be baked, grilled, or even air-fried, adapting easily to your kitchen setup or outdoor cooking plans. Despite their elegant presentation, they’re surprisingly straightforward to prepare, requiring just a handful of ingredients and a short cooking time. This makes them a reliable choice for hosts who want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.
Scallops are naturally sweet and delicate, while bacon brings saltiness and depth—together, they create a harmonious flavor pairing that feels both classic and luxurious. Brushing the skewers with garlic herb butter enhances the natural richness without masking the seafood. If you’re new to cooking scallops, learning how to select and prepare them properly is key; resources like https://www.seriouseats.com offer excellent guidance on seafood handling, while https://www.thekitchn.com provides helpful tips for cooking bacon evenly and safely.
Ultimately, Bacon-Wrapped Scallop Skewers are the kind of appetizer that disappears quickly from the platter. They’re visually impressive, deeply satisfying, and universally appealing—making them a go-to recipe for anyone who wants to serve something memorable, flavorful, and effortlessly elegant.
2. Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions
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Bacon-Wrapped Scallop Skewers Recipe
Description
Savory Bacon-Wrapped Scallop Skewers with garlic herb butter—an elegant, crowd-pleasing appetizer for parties and special occasions.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon garlic and herb seasoning
- 12 slices thick-cut bacon
- 1 pound large sea scallops (about 12), side muscle removed
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top if available.
- Pat the scallops completely dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps achieve better texture.
- Cut each slice of thick-cut bacon in half crosswise.
- Wrap one half-slice of bacon snugly around each scallop and secure with a skewer or toothpick. If using long skewers, thread multiple scallops evenly spaced.
- In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with the garlic and herb seasoning.
- Brush the butter mixture generously over the bacon-wrapped scallops on all sides.
- Arrange the skewers on the prepared rack, ensuring air can circulate around each piece.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes, turning once halfway through, until bacon is crisp and scallops are just cooked through.
- For extra crispness, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end, watching closely to avoid burning.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 2–3 minutes before serving.
Notes
Use dry-packed scallops for best results; wet scallops release too much moisture.
Thick-cut bacon works best, as thin bacon can overcook before scallops are done.
Avoid overcooking scallops—they should be opaque and tender, not rubbery.
3. Advanced Techniques
Choosing the Right Scallops
Advanced preparation begins with ingredient selection. Large, dry-packed sea scallops are ideal for Bacon-Wrapped Scallop Skewers because they sear and roast properly without excess moisture. Avoid scallops labeled “wet,” as they are treated with preservatives that affect texture and browning. Uniform size ensures even cooking, which is especially important when pairing scallops with bacon that needs time to crisp.
Par-Cooking the Bacon
One professional technique to ensure perfect doneness is par-cooking the bacon. Lightly cook bacon slices for 3–5 minutes until just starting to render fat but still flexible. This allows the bacon to crisp fully without overcooking the scallops. Par-cooking is especially useful when using very thick bacon or larger scallops.
Flavor Layering with Butter
Instead of simply melting butter, gently warm it with garlic herb seasoning to bloom the flavors. This infusion technique deepens aroma and ensures even distribution across the skewers. Some cooks add a squeeze of lemon or a pinch of smoked paprika to the butter for added complexity without overpowering the scallops.
Skewer Strategy
Using metal skewers promotes even heat conduction, while soaked wooden skewers prevent burning. Thread scallops tightly but not compressed, allowing bacon edges to crisp. Proper spacing improves airflow and texture during cooking, resulting in evenly browned skewers.
Precision Cooking
Scallops cook quickly, so timing is critical. Removing skewers just as scallops turn opaque preserves tenderness. Letting them rest briefly allows juices to redistribute, producing a succulent final bite. Precision cooking separates average results from exceptional ones.
4. Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips
Short-Term Refrigeration
Cooked Bacon-Wrapped Scallop Skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Allow them to cool completely before storing to prevent condensation.
Reheating Best Practices
Reheat gently in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make scallops rubbery and bacon soggy. Cover loosely with foil to prevent over-browning.
Freezing Considerations
Freezing cooked scallops is not recommended due to texture changes. If necessary, freeze uncooked, bacon-wrapped scallops on a tray, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Cook from frozen with adjusted time.
Make-Ahead Preparation
You can assemble the skewers up to 12 hours ahead and refrigerate them uncovered or loosely covered. Brush with butter just before cooking for best flavor.
Maintaining Texture
Always pat scallops dry and avoid overcrowding during cooking. Moisture control is essential for crisp bacon and tender scallops.
5. Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions
Low-Sodium Version
Choose low-sodium bacon and reduce garlic herb seasoning. Enhance flavor with fresh herbs or lemon zest instead of salt.
Dairy-Free Option
Replace butter with olive oil or plant-based butter alternatives. Garlic herb seasoning still provides robust flavor without dairy.
Sugar-Free and Keto-Friendly
This recipe is naturally keto-friendly. Ensure your seasoning blend contains no added sugars for strict low-carb diets.
Alternative Proteins
If scallops are unavailable, shrimp or large sea bass chunks can be substituted. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
Seasoning Variations
Swap garlic herb seasoning for Cajun spice, smoked paprika, or lemon pepper to customize flavor profiles while keeping the core recipe intact.
6. FAQs About the Recipe
Can I grill Bacon-Wrapped Scallop Skewers?
Yes. Grill over medium heat, turning frequently, until bacon is crisp and scallops are cooked through. Use indirect heat if flare-ups occur.
How do I know when scallops are done?
Scallops are done when opaque and firm but still springy. Overcooking results in a tough texture.
Should I remove the scallop side muscle?
Yes. Removing the side muscle improves tenderness and ensures a better eating experience.
Can I use thin-cut bacon?
Thin-cut bacon cooks too quickly and may burn before scallops are done. Thick-cut is strongly recommended.
What dipping sauces pair well?
Garlic aioli, lemon butter, or a light chili sauce complement the flavors without overpowering them.
7. Conclusion & Final Thoughts
Bacon-Wrapped Scallop Skewers are a true example of how simple ingredients, when paired thoughtfully, can create an unforgettable dish. The natural sweetness of scallops, combined with smoky bacon and savory garlic herb butter, delivers bold flavor in every bite. Despite their elegant appearance, these skewers are approachable and efficient to prepare, making them ideal for both casual gatherings and upscale events.
Their versatility is a major advantage—you can bake, grill, or adapt them to suit dietary needs without sacrificing flavor. They’re also highly scalable, allowing you to serve a small group or a large crowd with ease. With careful attention to ingredient quality and cooking technique, this recipe consistently produces impressive results.
Ultimately, Bacon-Wrapped Scallop Skewers are more than just an appetizer—they’re a conversation starter and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether served at a holiday party, summer cookout, or intimate dinner, they bring indulgence, balance, and sophistication to the table. Once you add them to your menu rotation, they’re likely to become a signature dish you’ll return to again and again.