Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Scallops Recipe

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I used to think bacon-wrapped scallops were reserved for fancy restaurants or catered events. Then I discovered how ridiculously simple they are to make in an air fryer, and now I whip them up for everything from date nights to holiday appetizers.

This Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Scallops Recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. The air fryer creates perfectly crispy bacon while keeping the scallops tender and sweet inside.

The best part? You’ll have elegant, flavor-packed appetizers ready in under 20 minutes.

No greasy pans, no oven preheating, and definitely no complicated techniques required. Just gorgeous golden scallops wrapped in smoky bacon that’ll make you look like a culinary genius.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Scallops Recipe

This recipe hits all the right notes for busy home cooks who still want to impress. The air fryer does most of the work while you reap all the compliments.

Here’s what makes these bacon-wrapped scallops absolutely irresistible:

Quick cooking time – From prep to plate in 20 minutes, making them perfect for last-minute entertaining
Crispy bacon guaranteed – The air fryer circulation ensures evenly crisped bacon without any soggy spots
Minimal cleanup – No splattering grease or multiple pans to scrub afterward
Restaurant-worthy presentation – These look like you spent hours in the kitchen when you barely broke a sweat
Perfectly cooked scallops – The gentle air fryer heat prevents overcooking, so your scallops stay tender and buttery

For another elegant seafood appetizer, try my Air Fryer Salmon Bites Recipe.

Ingredients

Everything you need is straightforward and easy to find. I keep most of these items on hand because bacon-wrapped scallops have become my go-to impressive dish.

For the scallops:

12 large sea scallops, side muscle removed and patted dry
6 slices thick-cut bacon, cut in half
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon sea salt
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Toothpicks for securing

Kitchen Equipment Needed

You won’t need any fancy gadgets for this recipe. Just a few basic kitchen tools and your trusty air fryer.

Essential equipment:

Air fryer (at least 5-quart capacity recommended)
Paper towels
Small mixing bowl
Pastry brush or spoon
Tongs
Kitchen scissors or knife

Recommended Products for This Recipe

I’ve tested this recipe with various ingredients and equipment, and these specific products consistently deliver the best results.

1. Wild-Caught Sea Scallops

Fresh, high-quality scallops make all the difference in this recipe. Look for dry-packed scallops that haven’t been treated with preservatives, as they’ll sear better and have a sweeter, more delicate flavor.

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2. Applewood Smoked Thick-Cut Bacon

The thicker cut holds up better during cooking and provides that perfect bacon-to-scallop ratio. Applewood-smoked varieties add a subtle sweetness that complements the scallops beautifully without overpowering their natural flavor.

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3. Cosori Air Fryer 5.8 Quart

This air fryer has been my workhorse for years. It circulates heat so evenly that every bacon-wrapped scallop comes out perfectly crispy, and the nonstick basket makes cleanup incredibly easy.

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4. Smoked Spanish Paprika

Regular paprika works fine, but smoked paprika adds an incredible depth of flavor that takes these scallops to the next level. A little goes a long way, and one jar will last you through dozens of batches.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed steps for perfect bacon-wrapped scallops every single time. I’ve included all my tricks for getting that ideal crispy-tender combination.

1. Prepare the Scallops

Remove the side muscle from each scallop if still attached (it’s a small rectangular tag on the side)
Pat scallops completely dry with paper towels – this is crucial for proper searing
Place dried scallops on a clean plate and set aside
Make sure scallops are at room temperature for even cooking

2. Prep the Bacon

Cut each bacon slice in half crosswise to create 12 pieces
If bacon is very thick, you can partially cook it in the microwave for 30-45 seconds to make wrapping easier
Lay bacon pieces flat on a cutting board
Have your toothpicks ready nearby for securing

3. Season the Scallops

In a small bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt
Brush or drizzle the seasoning mixture over both sides of each scallop
Let scallops sit for 5 minutes to absorb flavors
Don’t oversalt since bacon will add saltiness

4. Wrap the Scallops

Take one piece of bacon and wrap it around the middle of a scallop
Overlap the bacon ends slightly and secure with a toothpick through the center
Make sure the toothpick goes through both bacon ends and the scallop
Repeat with remaining scallops and bacon
The bacon should be snug but not so tight it squeezes the scallop

5. Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C)
Let it preheat for 3-5 minutes
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking
Preheating ensures even cooking from the start

6. Arrange in Air Fryer

Place wrapped scallops in a single layer in the air fryer basket
Leave space between each scallop for air circulation
Don’t overcrowd – cook in batches if necessary
The toothpick ends should point upward for easy removal later

7. Cook the Scallops

Air fry at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through
At the 5-minute mark, carefully flip each scallop using tongs
Watch for bacon that’s golden and crispy
Scallops should be opaque and firm to the touch when done

8. Check for Doneness

Bacon should be crispy and golden brown on all sides
Scallops should be opaque throughout and register 145°F internally
If bacon needs more crisping, add 1-2 minutes
Remove promptly to avoid overcooking the scallops

9. Finish and Serve

Transfer cooked scallops to a serving plate
Drizzle with fresh lemon juice immediately
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired
Serve hot while the bacon is still crispy

You might also enjoy: Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Asparagus Recipe

Tips for Success

These little tricks will help you avoid common pitfalls and nail this recipe every time.

Key pointers for perfect results:

Use dry-packed scallops – Wet-packed scallops contain added moisture that prevents proper browning
Don’t skip drying – Moisture is the enemy of a good sear, so pat those scallops bone dry
Par-cook thick bacon – If your bacon is super thick, give it 30 seconds in the microwave first so it crisps properly
Watch the timing – Scallops cook fast, and overcooked scallops turn rubbery, so set a timer
Work in batches – Crowding the basket creates steam instead of crisp, so give each scallop its space
Secure firmly – Push toothpicks all the way through so bacon doesn’t unravel during cooking
Flip carefully – Use tongs to avoid piercing the scallops and losing those precious juices

Another favorite: Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers Recipe

Serving Suggestions

These bacon-wrapped scallops are incredibly versatile and work beautifully in various settings. I’ve served them at everything from casual game nights to formal dinner parties.

Perfect pairings and presentation ideas:

Serve them as an elegant appetizer alongside garlic butter air fryer salmon for a stunning seafood spread. They’re also fantastic as part of a tapas-style dinner with crusty bread and a light salad.

For drinks, pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. A light beer or champagne also complements the rich, salty-sweet flavors beautifully.

Present them on a platter with lemon wedges, a small bowl of cocktail sauce, or garlic aioli for dipping. Fresh herbs scattered around the plate add a pop of color.

Read Also: Air Fryer Chicken Wings Recipe

Variations to Try

Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, these variations will keep things interesting.

Creative twists on the classic:

Asian-inspired – Brush with teriyaki glaze and sprinkle with sesame seeds
Spicy kick – Add cayenne pepper to the seasoning or drizzle with sriracha mayo
Maple bourbon – Brush bacon with maple syrup before wrapping and add a splash of bourbon
Herb-crusted – Roll wrapped scallops in fresh thyme and rosemary before cooking
Cheese-stuffed – Place a small cube of cream cheese between the scallop and bacon
Citrus variation – Replace lemon with lime or orange zest for different flavor profiles

Read Also: Air Fryer Bacon Recipe

Storage and Reheating

While these are best enjoyed fresh, sometimes you need to prep ahead or have leftovers.

How to store and reheat properly:

Refrigeration – Store cooked scallops in an airtight container for up to 2 days
Freezing – Not recommended, as scallops become rubbery when frozen and thawed
Reheating – Air fry at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to restore crispness
Make-ahead – Wrap scallops up to 4 hours ahead, refrigerate, then cook when ready
Room temperature – Always bring refrigerated wrapped scallops to room temp before cooking

Read Also: Air Fryer Turkey Bacon Recipe

Nutritional Facts

Per serving (2 scallops):

Calories: 185
Protein: 18g
Fat: 11g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Fiber: 0g
Sodium: 420mg
Cholesterol: 52mg

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

Beyond tasting incredible, these ingredients pack some serious nutritional value.

What makes these scallops a smart choice:

Scallops are an excellent source of lean protein and contain vitamin B12, which supports energy production and brain health. They’re also rich in selenium and zinc, minerals that boost immune function.

The omega-3 fatty acids in scallops support heart health and reduce inflammation throughout the body. Despite their sweet taste, scallops are surprisingly low in calories.

Even bacon, when enjoyed in moderation, provides protein and B vitamins. The small amount used per scallop adds flavor without excessive calories.

Read Also: Air Fryer Chicken Breast Recipe

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Bay scallops are much smaller and would require adjusting both the bacon amount and cooking time. I’d recommend sticking with sea scallops for this recipe since they’re easier to wrap and won’t overcook as quickly.

2. Why are my scallops rubbery?

Rubbery scallops are almost always the result of overcooking. Scallops should be just opaque and slightly firm when done. Pull them at 8 minutes and check before adding more time.

3. Do I need to soak wooden toothpicks before air frying?

No, you don’t need to soak toothpicks for air frying like you would for grilling. The short cooking time and enclosed environment prevent them from burning.

4. Can I make these without toothpicks?

You can try using the natural overlap of the bacon to hold it in place, but toothpicks really help keep everything secure during flipping. If you must skip them, place the seam-side down and don’t flip the scallops.

5. What’s the white muscle on the side of scallops?

That’s the adductor muscle that attaches the scallop to its shell. It’s edible but tough and chewy, so most people remove it before cooking.

Read Also: Air Fryer Chicken Thighs Recipe

Final Thoughts

This Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Scallops Recipe has become my secret weapon for entertaining. Seriously, people are always shocked when I tell them how easy these are to make.

The combination of sweet, tender scallops and crispy, smoky bacon is unbeatable. And the air fryer makes the whole process so much simpler than traditional methods.

Give this recipe a try at your next gathering, and watch them disappear in minutes. I’d love to hear how yours turn out, so drop a comment below and let me know what you think!

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