Mastering the Art of Baking Crispy Bacon Wrapped Scallops

Scallops wrapped in crispy bacon make for an indulgent appetizer that combines smoky and salty flavors with the delicate sweetness of the sea. While searing them in a pan is one cooking method, baking these bundles of joy in the oven allows the bacon to gradually render and crisp while the scallops steam gently in their own juices.

With just a few tips and techniques, you can churn out perfect bacon wrapped scallops from your oven with ease. Let’s dive in!

Selecting and Preparing the Scallops

When shopping for scallops, opt for dry packed rather than wet packed, as they contain less water and will cook up much nicer. Make sure they are unlabeled or labeled as dry sea scallops, which indicates higher quality. Wet scallops tend to leak juices and overcook.

Thaw frozen scallops overnight in the fridge if using frozen. Rinse the scallops under cold water and pat very dry with paper towels before wrapping Excess moisture prevents the bacon from crisping properly.

Cut the bacon strips in half widthwise. Wrap one piece around each scallop securing it with a toothpick through the center. Place on a parchment lined baking sheet and freeze until solid if not cooking immediately.

Choosing the Right Bacon

When it comes to bacon, think thin and lean. Standard sliced bacon works perfectly for evenly wrapping around scallops. Thicker cut or artisanal bacons won’t drape as nicely. And choose lower fat options to prevent excessive greasiness.

Flavored bacons like applewood smoked or peppered add tons of flavor. But avoid anything too heavily spiced that might overpower the scallops.

Pro Tip: If you want mega crispness, briefly fry or microwave the bacon about 1/3 cooked before wrapping for a head start on crisping!

Oven Baking Process and Time

A standard home oven set between 375-400°F works wonderfully for baking. Make sure to preheat it fully before cooking.

Place the tray of wrapped scallops on the middle rack with ample space around them for air circulation.

The cooking time can range from 15-22 minutes depending on thickness. Thinner bacon and scallops will cook faster.

Key signs to look for:

• Bacon browned and sizzling on edges
• Toothpicks starting to char
• Scallops become opaque and firm

Use an instant read thermometer to check scallop internal temp of 145°F for perfection.

Preventing Over or Undercooking

To avoid underdone scallops, ensure they are thoroughly patted dry before wrapping. Wetness makes it hard for the insides to fully heat.

Place scallops seam side down so bacon fat doesn’t leak out. And don’t overload the pan which prevents even cooking.

If scallops start overbrowning but aren’t cooked through, loosely tent foil over the pan to protect them while finishing.

For very large scallops, pre-sear them before oven baking to give a head start on cooking.

Undercooked bacon is often an issue. Use thin sliced bacon and increase oven temp slightly. Partially pre-cooking the bacon also helps prevent limpness.

Adding Flavor With Sauces and Rubs

A drizzle of sauce or spice rub atop the bacon scallops kicks up the flavors:

• BBQ Sauce – Sweet and tangy, use your favorite variety.

• Teriyaki Sauce – For an Asian fusion twist.

• Chili Lime Rub – Chili powder, lime zest, cumin, garlic powder.

• Cajun Seasoning – Paprika, onion/garlic powder, cayenne, oregano.

• Lemon Pepper – Fresh cracked pepper and lemon zest.

Make sure to brush on sauces at the end to prevent burning. And lightly sprinkle dry rubs so they stick to the bacon.

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve mastered the cooking process, it’s time for the fun part – eating! Consider these serving ideas:

• Appetizer platters – Arrange on a serving tray with cocktail sauce for dipping.

• Salads – Place atop leafy greens and drizzle with vinaigrette.

• Breakfast – Serve alongside eggs, hashbrowns, and pancakes.

• Skewers – Alternate with veggies and pineapple chunks.

• Sandwiches – Tuck into a sesame brioche bun with spicy mayo.

• Pastas – Toss with linguine and fresh herbs for a bacony carbonara.

However you choose to serve them, these succulent bacon wrapped scallops are sure to be the star of any meal!

Now that you’re equipped with all the tips and tricks for oven-baking crispy, mouthwatering bacon wrapped scallops, it’s time to put your new skills to use! Impress guests with these elegant yet easy party snacks or savor them as a weeknight luxury. One bite of these decadent bundles of joy and you’ll be hooked on cooking them yourself at home.