Description
This Pan-Seared Bacon Wrapped Scallops recipe features succulent large sea scallops wrapped in crispy bacon, pan-seared to perfection and finished with a flavorful butter garlic glaze. A perfect appetizer or main course that combines smoky, savory, and buttery flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Seafood
- 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
Cooking Oil
- 1-2 tablespoons avocado oil or other high smoke point oil
Instructions
- Cook Bacon: Heat a large skillet over medium to medium-low heat and cook the bacon for 10-12 minutes until it is almost cooked through but still pliable. Remove the bacon and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
- Prepare Scallops: Remove the tough tendons or side muscles from the scallops and pat them dry. Wrap each scallop with one strip of bacon and secure with a toothpick.
- Make Butter Garlic Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, finely minced garlic, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Sear Scallops: In a clean large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of avocado oil over medium to medium-low heat. Add the bacon wrapped scallops and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Brush the butter garlic sauce over the scallops during the last 1-2 minutes of cooking.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the scallops from the skillet and let them rest for 5 minutes to allow carryover cooking until they reach 130 degrees Fahrenheit. Serve garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges.
Notes
- Use large dry sea scallops rather than wet scallops for the best texture and flavor.
- Do not overcook scallops as they will continue cooking while resting, preventing rubbery texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; reheat in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes to preserve texture and avoid microwaving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg
