Turkey Bacon Wrapped Scallops

If you’re looking for a dish that screams elegance while being incredibly easy to make, these Turkey Bacon Wrapped Scallops are a must-try. This dish combines the natural sweetness of tender, juicy scallops with the smoky, crispy goodness of turkey bacon, resulting in a perfect bite-sized appetizer or entrée.

Whether you’re preparing them for a fancy dinner party, a romantic date night, or just a satisfying seafood treat, these scallops are packed with protein, omega-3s, and a hint of indulgence without being overly heavy. With a touch of seasoning and a simple yet flavorful glaze, these scallops caramelize beautifully in the oven or on the stovetop, making them irresistibly delicious.

Ready to impress your guests or treat yourself to a gourmet-style dish at home? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love These Turkey Bacon Wrapped Scallops

• Crispy, Smoky, and Juicy – The turkey bacon crisps up perfectly, while the scallops stay moist and tender.
• Quick and Easy – Only 15 minutes of prep and a short cook time make this a fast yet fancy dish.
• Protein-Packed and Low-Carb – A great option for a healthy, high-protein, and keto-friendly meal.
• Crowd-Pleasing Appetizer – Perfect for parties, special occasions, or as an upscale dinner side.
• Versatile Cooking Methods – Can be made in the oven, on the stovetop, or even on the grill.
• Naturally Sweet and Savory – The caramelized scallops and smoky turkey bacon create an incredible depth of flavor.

Preparation Time and Yield

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 12 bacon-wrapped scallops

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 2 Wrapped Scallops)

• Calories: 180
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Protein: 20g
• Fat: 8g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 1g

Ingredients for Turkey Bacon Wrapped Scallops

For the Scallops:

• 12 large sea scallops (patted dry)
• 6 slices turkey bacon (cut in half)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

For the Glaze (Optional but Recommended):

• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce (or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option)
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Turkey Bacon Wrapped Scallops

Step 1: Prep the Scallops

Start by patting the scallops dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps them sear properly instead of steaming in the pan. If the scallops have a tough muscle on the side (the small, firm tag-like piece), peel it off and discard it.

Step 2: Season the Scallops

In a small bowl, mix the salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Lightly coat the scallops with olive oil and sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over them. This enhances their natural sweetness and gives them a perfect savory contrast.

Step 3: Partially Cook the Turkey Bacon

Turkey bacon takes longer to crisp than scallops take to cook, so partially cooking it beforehand ensures a crispy texture without overcooking the scallops.

• Heat a pan over medium heat and cook the turkey bacon for 1–2 minutes per side, just until it starts to render fat and become slightly golden but still flexible.
• Remove from the pan and let it cool slightly before wrapping.

Step 4: Wrap the Scallops

• Take a half slice of turkey bacon and wrap it around each scallop, securing it with a toothpick.
• Make sure the ends of the bacon slightly overlap to ensure they hold together during cooking.

Step 5: Prepare the Glaze (Optional but Delicious!)

In a small bowl, whisk together the honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes. This glaze adds a touch of sweetness and umami, enhancing the flavors of both the scallops and turkey bacon.

Step 6: Cook the Scallops

Option 1: Oven Method (Best for Even Cooking)

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the wrapped scallops on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
3. Brush them lightly with the glaze.
4. Bake for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the turkey bacon is crispy and the scallops are opaque and tender.
5. For extra crispiness, broil for the last 1–2 minutes.

Option 2: Stovetop Method (Best for a Crispy Sear)

1. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
2. Place the scallops bacon-seam side down first to seal the edges.
3. Sear for 2–3 minutes per side, turning carefully with tongs, until the bacon is crisp and the scallops are golden brown.

Option 3: Grilled Method (Great for a Smoky Flavor)

1. Preheat a grill to medium-high heat (375–400°F).
2. Lightly oil the grates and place the wrapped scallops down.
3. Grill for 4–5 minutes per side, brushing with the glaze, until the bacon is crispy and the scallops are cooked through.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Drizzle with extra glaze and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top before serving. Enjoy them warm as an appetizer, side, or light meal!

Ingredient Background

This recipe shines because of the perfect balance of ingredients that complement each other in both texture and taste. Let’s explore the key components that make these scallops so special.

Scallops

Scallops are prized for their delicate sweetness and buttery texture. They’re also a powerhouse of nutrition, loaded with lean protein, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acids, which support brain and heart health. The best scallops to use for this dish are large sea scallops because they’re plump, tender, and ideal for wrapping with turkey bacon.

Turkey Bacon

Turkey bacon is a leaner, high-protein alternative to traditional pork bacon, offering a smoky, savory flavor without excessive fat. Because turkey bacon is naturally lower in fat, it doesn’t crisp up as quickly, so pre-cooking it slightly ensures the perfect texture. It also pairs wonderfully with scallops, enhancing their sweetness with its mild smokiness.

Sweet and Savory Glaze

The honey (or maple syrup) glaze brings a hint of sweetness that complements the rich scallops and smoky turkey bacon. Dijon mustard adds a slight tang, while soy sauce brings out umami depth. Red pepper flakes (if used) offer a subtle heat, balancing out the dish.

Technique Tips for Turkey Bacon Wrapped Scallops

To achieve perfectly cooked, restaurant-quality scallops, keep these expert tips in mind:

First, pat the scallops dry before seasoning. Excess moisture prevents them from developing a beautiful golden crust, so make sure they’re completely dry before cooking.

Second, don’t overcook the scallops. They should be opaque and slightly firm, but not rubbery. A perfectly cooked scallop takes only 12–15 minutes in the oven or 2–3 minutes per side on the stovetop. If they start to shrink too much, they’re overdone!

Lastly, secure the turkey bacon properly using toothpicks. This prevents it from unraveling while cooking and helps ensure even crispiness. Just remember to remove the toothpicks before serving!

Alternative Presentation Ideas

These Turkey Bacon Wrapped Scallops can be served in several creative ways, making them a versatile dish for any occasion.

For a gourmet appetizer, place the scallops on a platter and drizzle with extra glaze. Garnish with microgreens, fresh herbs, or thinly sliced chives for a beautiful presentation.

If you’re serving them as a main course, pair them with a light salad of arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a citrus vinaigrette. The brightness of the salad enhances the rich, savory flavors of the scallops.

For a fun and casual option, skewer them with grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and red onions to create a stunning seafood kebab. This is a fantastic way to serve them at BBQs and summer gatherings!

Freezing and Storing Turkey Bacon Wrapped Scallops

This dish is perfect for meal prep, and with proper storage, you can enjoy it later without sacrificing flavor or texture.

If storing in the fridge, place any leftover scallops in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes per side to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the scallops rubbery.

For longer storage, freeze the scallops before cooking. Wrap each scallop with turkey bacon and place them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a sealed freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, let them thaw in the fridge overnight before baking or pan-searing.

If freezing already cooked scallops, follow the same process. When reheating, bake them at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes, or until heated through.

Healthier Twist Ideas

Looking to make this dish even healthier while keeping it delicious? Try these nutritious alternatives:

Instead of frying or using too much oil, bake or air-fry the scallops for a crisp finish with minimal fat. If using an air fryer, set it to 375°F (190°C) and cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

For a lower-carb version, skip the glaze and use a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of sea salt instead. This enhances the natural flavors of the scallops without adding sugar.

To make it dairy-free and extra nutritious, serve with a side of roasted Brussels sprouts or steamed asparagus. These vegetables complement the dish with their earthy, slightly bitter contrast to the scallops’ sweetness.

Serving Suggestions for Events

These scallops are perfect for any event, from elegant dinners to casual parties. Here’s how to serve them based on different occasions:

For a holiday appetizer, arrange them beautifully on a platter and garnish with pomegranate seeds and rosemary sprigs. The vibrant colors and flavors make them festive and eye-catching.

If serving at a summer BBQ, cook them on skewers alongside grilled pineapple and bell peppers. The sweet and smoky combination makes for an exciting flavor contrast.

For a romantic dinner, pair the scallops with garlic butter roasted potatoes and a crisp white wine. A side of creamy cauliflower purée can also add a luxurious touch without overpowering the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use smaller bay scallops instead of sea scallops?

No, bay scallops are too small and delicate for wrapping. Stick to large sea scallops for the best results.

2. Do I have to pre-cook the turkey bacon?

Yes! Pre-cooking ensures that the turkey bacon crisps up without overcooking the scallops.

3. What’s the best way to get a crispy texture?

Use the oven broil function for the last 1–2 minutes or pan-sear them for a golden, crispy crust.

4. Can I use beef or chicken bacon instead?

Yes! Beef bacon provides a richer, smoky flavor, while chicken bacon is lighter and milder.

5. Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Wrap the scallops and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.

6. What dipping sauces go well with these scallops?

Try a garlic aioli, balsamic glaze, or a lemon herb butter for extra flavor.

7. Can I grill these scallops?

Yes! Grill over medium-high heat for 4–5 minutes per side, brushing with glaze for extra caramelization.

8. What wine pairs well with turkey bacon-wrapped scallops?

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with their delicate sweetness.

9. Can I add extra spices for more flavor?

Absolutely! Try adding a dash of cayenne pepper or a pinch of Old Bay seasoning for extra depth.

10. How do I know when the scallops are perfectly cooked?

They should be opaque, slightly firm, and have a golden sear on the outside. If they look dry or shrunken, they’re overcooked.

Conclusion

These Turkey Bacon Wrapped Scallops are the perfect blend of elegance and simplicity, making them a fantastic dish for any occasion. With their tender, buttery scallops, smoky turkey bacon, and a touch of sweetness, they’re sure to be a hit with friends and family.

Whether you’re making them for a fancy dinner, a summer BBQ, or a quick weeknight treat, this dish delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. Try them today, and let me know how they turn out! Happy cooking!

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