Description
This Pan-Seared Bacon Wrapped Scallops recipe features large sea scallops wrapped in crispy bacon and cooked to perfection in a skillet with a flavorful garlic butter glaze. Perfect as a savory appetizer or elegant main dish, these scallops are tender and delicious with a hint of sweetness from brown sugar and a touch of seasoning.
Ingredients
Scale
Scallops and Bacon
- 9 ounces bacon or 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
- 1-2 tablespoons avocado oil or other high smoke point oil
Instructions
- Cook Bacon: Cook bacon over medium to medium-low heat in a large skillet for 10-12 minutes until almost cooked through but still pliable. Remove from skillet and place on paper towels to drain.
- Prepare Scallops: Remove tough tendons from scallops and pat dry. Wrap one strip of bacon around each scallop and secure with a toothpick.
- Make Garlic Butter Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, minced garlic, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper.
- Sear Scallops: In a large clean skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of avocado oil over medium to medium-low heat. Add bacon-wrapped scallops and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until internal temperature reaches 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Brush garlic butter sauce on scallops during the last 1-2 minutes of cooking.
- Rest Scallops: Remove scallops from skillet and let rest for 5 minutes to reach an internal temperature of 130 degrees Fahrenheit before serving.
- Serve: Plate scallops and garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges. Enjoy immediately.
Notes
- Use large, dry sea scallops for best texture and flavor.
- Avoid overcooking; scallops continue cooking while resting, so remove from heat slightly early.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheat leftovers in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes to maintain texture; avoid microwaving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (2 scallops)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
