The sizzling sound of bacon meeting the grill is like music to my ears, and when you add tender scallops to the mix, it transforms into a culinary masterpiece. Today, I’m excited to share my go-to recipe for Grilled Bacon Wrapped Scallops, a dish that balances indulgence and simplicity effortlessly. This delightful meal can be prepped in just 30 minutes and requires minimal cleanup—perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers with friends. Not only is it packed with flavor, but the contrast of crispy bacon and juicy scallops will leave everyone craving more. So, whether you’re an experienced home chef or just starting out, you’ll love how easy and impressive this dish is. What side would you pair with these savory bites to make it a meal you won’t forget?
Why are Bacon Wrapped Scallops a must-try?
Irresistible Flavor: The savory, smoky taste of bacon paired with sweet scallops creates a flavor explosion that’s sure to impress your taste buds.
Quick to Make: In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this delightful dish perfect for weeknight dinners or spontaneous gatherings.
Minimal Cleanup: Enjoy delicious food without the hassle, as this recipe keeps cleanup to a bare minimum.
Versatile Pairings: Serve with fresh greens or garlic bread to round out your meal—perfect for all occasions!
You’ll also want to check out my Chicken Parmesan Grilled recipe for another crowd-pleasing option everyone will love!
Grilled Bacon Wrapped Scallops Ingredients
• For the Scallops
- Jumbo Scallops – Using the largest size ensures maximum tenderness and sweetness in each bite.
• For the Bacon
- Thin-Sliced Bacon – Crispiness and flavor are key; choose a high-quality bacon for best results.
• For Grilling
- Cooking Spray – A light coat prevents sticking and helps achieve that beautiful sear you desire.
• For the Vegetables
- Assorted Seasonal Vegetables – Colorful options like zucchini, peppers, or cherry tomatoes bring nutrition and vibrancy to the dish.
Dive into this tasty experience with Grilled Bacon Wrapped Scallops, and you’ll find a quick yet extraordinary meal awaits you!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Grilled Bacon Wrapped Scallops
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Begin by threading assorted seasonal vegetables, like zucchini and cherry tomatoes, onto skewers, grouping similar types for even cooking. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Lightly spray the skewers with olive oil and season with pepper for an extra kick of flavor. Lay the vegetable skewers aside as you focus on the bacon and scallops.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
Take thin-sliced bacon and lay it on a sheet of aluminum foil placed on the preheated grill. Allow the bacon to cook for about 5-7 minutes or until it starts to soften and turn golden brown, flipping it halfway through for even cooking. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t crisp up too much, as you’ll be wrapping it around the scallops later.
Step 3: Grill the Vegetables
Once the bacon starts to reach the desired tenderness, add the skewers of longer-cooking vegetables (like potatoes) to the grill. Allow them to cook for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally until they soften and develop those beautiful grill marks. Keep everything cooking at medium-high heat, ensuring the vegetables become tender-crisp and vibrant.
Step 4: Prepare the Scallops
While the vegetables are grilling, take your jumbo scallops and wrap each one with half a slice of the pre-cooked bacon, securing it with a skewer. This will keep everything together while grilling and ensure the rich flavors transport beautifully during cooking. Set these succulent, bacon-wrapped scallops aside; they’re the star of the dish.
Step 5: Grill the Scallops
Once the vegetables are nearly finished, spray the wrapped scallops lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange them on the grill over high heat and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side. You’re looking for them to turn golden brown and reach an internal temperature of no more than 130°F to keep the scallops tender.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
After grilling, carefully remove the scallops from the grill and let them rest for a moment. Serve the Grilled Bacon Wrapped Scallops alongside the vibrant grilled vegetables for a beautiful display of colors and flavors. Drizzle with your favorite finish, like balsamic glaze or a squeeze of lemon, for that extra zing!
Make Ahead Options
These Grilled Bacon Wrapped Scallops are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prep the scallops by wrapping them with bacon up to 24 hours in advance, which will keep the flavors locked in, and avoid browning by wrapping them tightly and storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The vegetable skewers can be assembled up to 3 days ahead, drizzled with olive oil and seasoned; just refrigerate them until you’re ready to grill. When it’s time to cook, simply take the scallops out and grill them over high heat alongside the skewers of vegetables, ensuring a delightful dinner with minimal effort! Enjoy restaurant-quality results at home, saving you time on busy weeknights.
Grilled Bacon Wrapped Scallops Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Grilled Bacon Wrapped Scallops by trying out these delightful variations!
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Pancetta Swap: Replace bacon with pancetta for a richer, more flavorful option that still crisps beautifully.
The savory notes of pancetta add a sophisticated twist. Your guests will be wondering how you made it so delicious! -
Seafood Twist: Swap scallops with shrimp or lobster for a different take on this dish.
Shrimp grill beautifully when wrapped in bacon, offering a different texture and an equally satisfying flavor sensation. -
Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne to the bacon before wrapping the scallops.
This will give your dish a delightful kick that spice-lovers will adore. Pair with a cool dipping sauce to balance the heat! -
Balsamic Glaze Finish: Drizzle a balsamic glaze over the top before serving for an irresistible sweet and tangy flavor.
It not only enhances taste but also adds a beautiful glossy finish to the dish—perfect for impressing guests at dinner parties. -
Herb-Infused Bacon: Consider wrapping scallops in bacon that has been seasoned with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary.
This subtle infusion elevates the flavor profile and adds a fragrant aroma that’s simply heavenly. -
Stuffed Scallops: For extra indulgence, stuff scallops with a mixture of cream cheese, herbs, and spices before wrapping with bacon.
The creamy filling adds an amazing richness that pairs wonderfully with the crispy bacon! -
Vegetable Variety: Use different seasonal vegetables or add bell peppers and mushrooms to your side skewers for colorful flair.
Each vegetable adds its unique flavor, making the dish even more vibrant and alluring.
Feel free to experiment! These variations not only enhance your Grilled Bacon Wrapped Scallops experience but also let your culinary creativity shine. And while you’re at it, don’t miss out on my delicious Chicken Parmesan Grilled recipe for another delightful meal!
How to Store and Freeze Grilled Bacon Wrapped Scallops
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: You can freeze cooked Grilled Bacon Wrapped Scallops for up to 2 months. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge, and reheat gently in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through without drying out.
Tip: For best taste, consume scallops fresh as their unique texture shines immediately after grilling!
Expert Tips for Grilled Bacon Wrapped Scallops
Timing is Key: Ensure that you grill the scallops for just 3-4 minutes per side to avoid them becoming rubbery.
Bacon Pre-Cook: Lightly cook the bacon beforehand until it’s soft; this ensures it crisps perfectly without overcooking the scallops.
Skewer Wisely: Use separate skewers for the vegetables and scallops, paying attention to varying cooking times for optimal tenderness.
Choose Quality: Opt for fresh, high-quality jumbo scallops and thin-sliced bacon for the best flavor and texture in your grilled bacon wrapped scallops.
Don’t Crowd the Grill: Give each piece space to sear properly, allowing for even cooking and that lovely charred flavor.
Rest Before Serving: Let the scallops rest for a minute post-grilling; this helps retain moisture and enhances taste.
What to Serve with Grilled Bacon Wrapped Scallops
Elevate your dining experience with delightful pairings that complement the smoky, savory goodness of your scallops.
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Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes: This rich and buttery side absorbs flavors beautifully while adding a cozy comfort to your meal.
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Fresh Arugula Salad: A peppery arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette provides a zesty counterpoint to the rich bacon.
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Roasted Asparagus: Tender, slightly charred asparagus offers a fresh crunch that enhances the seafood’s delicate sweetness.
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Crispy Bread: Serve with slices of rustic, crispy bread to soak up the delicious juices and flavors, creating a truly satisfying experience.
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Herbed Quinoa: This light yet filling dish adds a nutty flavor and pleasant texture, balancing the richness of the scallops.
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Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc pairs perfectly, its crisp acidity cutting through the richness of bacon and scallops.
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Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, this refreshing palate cleanser adds a bright, tangy finish to your meal, rounding out the dining experience.
Consider these blended flavors and textures to create a meal that not only satisfies but delights every sense!
Grilled Bacon Wrapped Scallops Recipe FAQs
What’s the best way to select scallops for grilling?
Absolutely! For the best results, choose jumbo scallops that are firm and slightly translucent. Avoid any with dark spots or a strong fishy smell. Fresh scallops should smell like the ocean—not overly fishy. If possible, ask your seafood counter for the freshest catch available.
How long can I store leftovers of grilled bacon wrapped scallops?
If you have any leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s best to consume them fresh to enjoy the optimal texture and flavor. Just gently reheat them in the oven for a couple of minutes to warm them up without compromising their quality.
Can I freeze grilled bacon wrapped scallops?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap each portion of grilled bacon wrapped scallops tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the fridge, and reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
What should I do if my scallops turn out rubbery?
No one wants rubbery scallops! This typically happens from overcooking. Aim for grilling them for just 3-4 minutes per side, keeping an eye on the internal temperature—it should not exceed 130°F. If they seem tough, don’t worry; next time, try par-cooking your bacon a bit longer to allow for perfect crispiness while keeping the scallops moist.
Are there any dietary considerations for this dish?
Yes! Keep in mind that some may have shellfish allergies. Always check with your guests if they have allergies before serving. Additionally, if you or someone you know has dietary restrictions, you can replace the scallops with alternatives like shrimp or chicken to make it suitable for everyone.
How can I ensure my bacon is crispy yet doesn’t overcook the scallops?
To achieve crispy bacon without overcooking your scallops, par-cook the bacon first on the grill for about 5-7 minutes until it’s soft and lightly browned. This helps ensure the bacon crisps up nicely in the short time it takes to grill the scallops, preventing them from becoming rubbery.
Grilled Bacon Wrapped Scallops: A Quick Delight for Any Night
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the vegetables by threading assorted seasonal vegetables onto skewers, grouping similar types for even cooking. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Lightly spray the skewers with olive oil and season with pepper.
- Cook the bacon on a sheet of aluminum foil on the preheated grill for about 5-7 minutes until it starts to soften and turn golden brown, flipping halfway through.
- Once the bacon reaches desired tenderness, add skewers of longer-cooking vegetables to the grill for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally until they soften.
- Wrap each jumbo scallop with half a slice of pre-cooked bacon, securing it with a skewer, and set aside.
- Grill the wrapped scallops over high heat for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and an internal temperature of no more than 130°F.
- Serve the grilled bacon wrapped scallops alongside the grilled vegetables, and drizzle with balsamic glaze or lemon juice for extra zing.