Description
This Pan-Seared Bacon Wrapped Scallops recipe delivers a delicious combination of tender sea scallops wrapped in crispy bacon, enhanced with a buttery garlic brown sugar glaze. Perfectly seared for a golden crust and juicy interior, this dish makes an impressive appetizer or main course.
Ingredients
Scale
Scallops and Bacon
- 9 ounces bacon (about 10 strips)
- 1 pound large sea scallops (about 10-12 count)
Sauce and Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 garlic clove, finely minced
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Pinch of black pepper
Cooking Oil
- 1-2 tablespoons avocado oil or other high-smoke point oil
Instructions
- Cook Bacon: In a large skillet over medium to medium-low heat, cook the bacon strips for 10-12 minutes until they are almost fully cooked but still pliable. Remove bacon and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
- Prepare Scallops: Remove the tough tendons from the side of each scallop and pat them dry. Wrap one strip of bacon around each scallop and secure with a toothpick.
- Make Garlic Butter Sauce: Whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, brown sugar, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until well combined.
- Sear Scallops: Heat 1 tablespoon of avocado oil in a clean large skillet over medium to medium-low heat. Add the bacon-wrapped scallops and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 120°F. During the last 1-2 minutes of cooking, brush the scallops with the garlic butter sauce to glaze them.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the scallops from the skillet and let them rest for 5 minutes; they will continue cooking to reach an internal temperature of 130°F. Serve with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and lemon wedges for garnish.
Notes
- Use large “dry” sea scallops rather than “wet” scallops for the best flavor and texture.
- Do not overcook the scallops; remove them from heat just before they are fully done as they will continue cooking while resting.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes instead of microwaving to preserve texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
