Beef Bacon Wrapped Scallops

The first time I made these, my kitchen smelled incredible within minutes. My husband kept wandering in asking if they were done yet, which never happens with my usual weeknight cooking.

I served these at our anniversary dinner last year and we ended up eating them straight off the platter while standing at the counter. Sometimes the best meals happen when you are too excited to sit down properly.

Ingredients

• 8 large sea scallops: Pat them completely dry with paper towels so the bacon wraps tight and sears properly
• 8 slices beef bacon: This has a richer smokier flavor than regular bacon and crisps beautifully around the seafood
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt: Scallops need a good seasoning punch since the bacon brings the salt too
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper: Freshly ground makes all the difference here
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika: Optional but adds such a lovely depth to the overall flavor profile
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter: Let it soften slightly before making the sauce so it melts evenly
• 1 clove garlic: Mince it fine so you get that garlicky flavor without chunks
• Zest of 1 lemon: Use a microplane if you have one to get those beautiful fragrant oils
• 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice: Fresh is absolutely non negotiable here
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley: Adds that pop of color and fresh finish to the butter sauce

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 425°F and set up your baking station:

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top. This setup lets the bacon fat drip away while the scallops cook evenly.

Season the scallops generously:

Sprinkle salt pepper and smoked paprika all over each scallop turning them to coat every side. The seasoning will cling better since you dried them thoroughly.

Wrap each scallop tightly with beef bacon:

Wrap the bacon around the scallop and secure it with a toothpick pushed through the side. Make sure the bacon overlaps slightly so it stays put during cooking.

Bake until perfectly crisp and tender:

Place the wrapped scallops on the wire rack and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. Flip them halfway through so the bacon crisps evenly on all sides.

Whisk up that lemon butter sauce:

Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for just 1 minute until fragrant then stir in the lemon zest juice and parsley.

Finish and serve immediately:

Pull out those toothpicks carefully and arrange the scallops on a pretty platter. Drizzle that warm lemon butter all over and watch everyone reach for them.

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My mom started requesting these for every holiday gathering after I made them for Christmas Eve last year. She is not usually one to ask for specific dishes so that really meant something to me.

Making The Lemon Butter Ahead

You can whisk up the lemon butter sauce a few hours before and keep it at room temperature. Give it a quick gentle reheat when the scallops come out of the oven. Do not let it boil or it might separate.

Best Bacon Substitutions

Pork bacon works but cook it about 2 minutes less since it crisps faster. Turkey bacon is leaner but you might need to brush it with a little olive oil to get that nice golden color.

Serving Suggestions

These work beautifully as an appetizer or light main. I like to serve them with crusty bread to soak up any extra lemon butter that lands on the plate. A simple arugula salad on the side balances the richness perfectly.

• Chill your serving platter for 15 minutes before arranging the scallops
• Have extra lemon wedges on hand for guests who love extra citrus
• Cooking for a crowd? Double the recipe but bake in batches so they stay hot

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These scallops have become my go to when I want to make something special without spending hours in the kitchen. Hope they become a favorite in your home too.

Recipe FAQs

→ What is the best way to wrap scallops with beef bacon?

Ensure scallops are dry before wrapping tightly with a single slice of beef bacon and secure each with a toothpick to prevent slipping during cooking.

→ How can I achieve a crispy bacon exterior while keeping scallops tender?

Bake wrapped scallops on a wire rack to allow even heat circulation, flipping halfway through the 12-15 minute cooking time.

→ What ingredients contribute to the lemon butter sauce's flavor?

Unsalted butter melted with minced garlic, lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and chopped parsley combine to create a bright and aromatic sauce.

→ Can I substitute beef bacon with other types of bacon?

Yes, turkey or traditional pork bacon works well; just adjust cooking time as these may crisp faster or slower than beef bacon.

→ What wine pairs well with beef bacon wrapped scallops?

A crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio enhances the smoky and citrus flavors of the dish.