Bacon wrapped scallops are a delicious appetizer that combines the briny sweetness of seared scallops with the smoky, salty crunch of crispy bacon. While fresh scallops are ideal, frozen bacon wrapped scallops can be just as tasty when cooked properly in the oven.
Follow this simple guide to learn how to bake frozen bacon wrapped scallops from start to finish. We’ll provide tips on thawing, prep, seasoning, baking, and serving these tasty morsels. With a little practice, you’ll be able to make restaurant-quality bacon wrapped scallops at home.
Ingredients
- 1 lb frozen bacon wrapped scallops (about 25-30 pieces)
- Nonstick cooking spray or olive oil for greasing pan
- Your choice of seasonings:
- Lemon pepper
- Cajun seasoning
- Old Bay seasoning
- Fresh chopped herbs like parsley or chives
Step 1 – Thaw the Scallops
Frozen scallops need to be thawed before cooking to ensure they bake evenly. Place the frozen bacon wrapped scallops in a single layer on a plate or baking sheet. Allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight, or for at least 8 hours.
If you need to thaw them more quickly, seal the scallops in a plastic bag and submerge in a bowl of cold water. Change the water every 30 minutes until thawed, about 1-2 hours
Step 2 – Pat Dry and Brush with Oil
Once thawed, blot the scallops dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture on the surface. This helps them sear nicely in the oven.
Brush both sides lightly with olive oil or melted butter This adds flavor and prevents the scallops from sticking to the pan
Step 3 – Season the Scallops
Sprinkle the scallops with your choice of seasonings. Lemon pepper, Cajun spice, Old Bay, or chopped fresh herbs are all tasty options. Apply the seasoning generously to both sides to infuse maximum flavor.
Step 4 – Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 425°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Lightly grease the foil or paper with nonstick spray or oil.
Step 5 – Arrange Scallops on Sheet and Bake
Place the scallops on the oiled baking sheet spacing them apart so they aren’t touching.
Bake for 10 minutes, then carefully flip each scallop over using tongs. Bake for 8-10 more minutes until the bacon is browned and crispy.
The scallops are fully cooked once the bacon is crisped to your liking. Baking times may vary based on the size of your scallops.
Step 6 – Finish with Sauce (Optional)
For extra flavor, make a quick sauce to drizzle over the baked bacon wrapped scallops. Melt 2 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and 2 tbsp lemon juice and simmer 1 minute. Stir in 2 tbsp chopped parsley.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy these tasty bacon wrapped scallops as an appetizer or light meal. Here are some serving ideas:
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Serve on a bed of fresh baby spinach or arugula for a nice color contrast.
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Top with diced mango, pineapple, or pomegranate seeds for a pop of sweetness.
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Skewer them on toothpicks for easy finger food at parties.
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Pair with a tangy dipping sauce like chimichurri, aioli, or tzatziki.
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Pile them on slider buns for handheld bacon scallop sandwiches.
With this easy method, you can have restaurant-worthy bacon wrapped scallops using convenient frozen scallops. Impress your friends and family with these elegant, protein-packed bites of bacon-y delight. Just be prepared for requests for second helpings!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to bake frozen bacon wrapped scallops?
It takes 18-20 minutes total to bake frozen bacon wrapped scallops at 425°F. Bake for 10 minutes on the first side, flip, then bake 8-10 more minutes until the bacon is crisped and browned.
What temperature is best for cooking frozen scallops in the oven?
The optimal oven temperature for frozen scallops is 425°F. This high heat helps the scallops sear nicely on the outside while cooking through in the center. Lower temps may lead to uneven cooking.
Can you cook frozen scallops without thawing?
It’s best to thaw frozen scallops before cooking to prevent uneven baking. Thawing helps the scallops cook gently and evenly all the way through when baked.
Should bacon wrapped scallops be cooked from frozen?
Yes, you can cook bacon wrapped scallops directly from frozen in the oven. There’s no need to thaw them first. Just extend the baking time by a few minutes to ensure the scallops cook through.
How do you know when bacon wrapped scallops are done?
Bacon wrapped scallops are fully cooked when the bacon is browned, crispy, and sizzling around the edges. The scallop should be opaque in the center when cut into. Use tongs to check doneness early to avoid overcooking.
What are the best seasonings for bacon wrapped scallops?
Lemon pepper, Cajun seasoning, Old Bay, and chopped fresh herbs like parsley, chives, and dill are all excellent seasonings for bacon wrapped scallops. Apply the seasonings generously before baking.
Can you reheat leftover bacon wrapped scallops?
Yes, leftovers can be reheated in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until warmed through. You can also reheat single portions in the microwave. Take care not to overcook the scallops.
How long do baked bacon wrapped scallops last in the fridge?
Properly stored, baked bacon wrapped scallops will last 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Seal them in an airtight container and refrigerate. Reheat fully when ready to consume.
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