Beef Bacon Wrapped Scallops

The first time I served these at a dinner party, my friend Sarah actually stopped mid conversation and demanded to know what was happening in the kitchen. The combination of beef bacons rich smokiness with sweet tender scallops creates something entirely unexpected.

I discovered beef bacon quite by accident at my local butcher shop and now I keep a stash in the freezer specifically for these scallops. Last Valentine's Day, my husband and I stood at the counter eating them straight from the baking sheet, forgetting completely about the actual dinner I'd planned.

Ingredients

• 8 large sea scallops: Look for dry packed scallops rather than wet ones for better searing and a cleaner taste
• 8 slices beef bacon: This has a richer more intense flavor than traditional pork bacon and crisps beautifully in the oven
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt: Scallops need proper seasoning to let their natural sweetness shine through
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper: Freshly ground adds a brightness that preground cannot match
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika: This echoes the smokiness of the beef bacon and adds a lovely color
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter: Use room temperature butter for a smoother emulsified sauce
• 1 clove garlic: One clove gives just enough background flavor without overwhelming the delicate scallops
• Zest of 1 lemon: The oils in the zest provide brightness without the harsh acidity of too much juice
• 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice: Acid cuts through the rich bacon and balances the sweet scallops
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley: This adds a fresh herbal note and beautiful color contrast

Instructions

Set up for success:

Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place a wire rack on top to allow air circulation and keep the scallops from sitting in rendered fat.

Season the scallops:

Pat each scallop completely dry with paper towels then season generously with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika on all sides.

Wrap them up:

Wrap each seasoned scallop tightly with a slice of beef bacon, then slide a toothpick through the side to secure everything in place.

Oven time:

Arrange the wrapped scallops on the wire rack and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until the bacon is crisp and the scallops are just opaque throughout.

Make the sauce:

While the scallops bake, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for one minute until fragrant, then stir in the lemon zest and juice before removing from heat and mixing in the parsley.

Finish and serve:

Carefully remove the toothpicks from each scallop, arrange them on a serving platter, and drizzle generously with the warm lemon butter sauce.

Save

These have become my go to when I want to make someone feel special without spending the whole evening at the stove. There is something about the combination of textures and flavors that makes people slow down and really savor each bite.

Making Ahead

You can wrap the scallops with the bacon up to a day in advance and store them covered in the refrigerator. Let them sit at room temperature for about twenty minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.

Serving Suggestions

These work beautifully as an elegant appetizer or as a light main course alongside a simple green salad. I love serving them with a crisp white wine that has good acidity to cut through the richness.

Variations

If you cannot find beef bacon, traditional pork bacon works perfectly well though the flavor profile will be slightly different and sweeter. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the lemon butter sauce.

• Try brushing the wrapped scallops with maple syrup before baking for a sweet and smoky variation
• Substitute chopped chives or tarragon for the parsley in the sauce
• Add a drop of truffle oil to the butter sauce for an extra luxurious finish

Save

These beef bacon wrapped scallops have a way of making any ordinary Tuesday evening feel like a celebration.

Common Questions

→ Can I use a different type of bacon?

Yes, turkey or traditional pork bacon can be substituted, but adjust cooking times to ensure proper doneness and crispness.

→ How do I know when scallops are cooked perfectly?

Cook until they turn opaque and beef bacon crisps up, usually about 12-15 minutes in the oven at 425°F.

→ What’s the best way to prevent scallops from sticking while baking?

Use a wire rack on a lined baking sheet to allow air circulation and avoid sticking or sogginess.

→ Can I add spice to the lemon butter sauce?

Yes, a pinch of chili flakes can be added to the lemon butter for extra flavor and mild heat.

→ What sides complement this dish well?

Light green salads, steamed vegetables, or a crisp white wine pair well to balance the richness.