Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Scallops Recipe

If you’re looking for an elegant dish that comes together in under 20 minutes, this Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Scallops Recipe is exactly what you need.

Plump, juicy sea scallops snuggled in crispy, golden bacon, cooked to absolute perfection in the air fryer — it sounds fancy, but the process is refreshingly simple.

The secret to why this works so brilliantly in an air fryer is all about heat circulation. The hot air surrounds each scallop from every angle, getting the bacon crispy without drying out the delicate, tender seafood inside.

What makes this recipe stand out is the maple-soy glaze — a simple combination of maple syrup, soy sauce, and garlic powder that brings a sweet-savory balance that makes every bite deeply satisfying.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, putting together an impressive appetizer spread, or just craving something special on a weeknight, this recipe delivers every single time.

For another irresistible air fryer seafood dish, check out this Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Shrimp.

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

This recipe checks every box — fast, flavorful, and genuinely impressive.

From start to finish, you’re looking at about 20 minutes total, which means you can pull off a restaurant-quality dish on a busy Tuesday night.

The air fryer makes cooking scallops practically foolproof. There’s no guessing and no babysitting a skillet — the even heat circulation does all the hard work for you.

The pre-cooking technique for the bacon is a real difference-maker. Partially cooking the bacon before wrapping ensures it crisps up perfectly at the same time the scallops reach their ideal tender, opaque texture.

The maple-soy glaze is the kind of flavor combination that just works. The sweetness of the maple caramelizes beautifully against the salty, smoky bacon, and the scallops absorb just enough to make every bite complex and satisfying.

This dish is also naturally gluten-free and low-carb, making it a crowd-pleaser even for guests with dietary restrictions.

• Ready in under 20 minutes from start to finish
• Minimal prep work with only a handful of ingredients
• The air fryer delivers perfectly crisped bacon and juicy scallops simultaneously
• Sweet-savory maple-soy glaze adds incredible depth of flavor
• Elegant enough for entertaining, simple enough for weeknight cooking
• Naturally gluten-free and low in carbohydrates
• Easy to scale up or down depending on your crowd size

You might also enjoy: Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Asparagus

Ingredients

For this recipe, dry sea scallops are essential. Wet scallops (those treated with sodium tripolyphosphate) hold too much water, which prevents proper browning and can make the finished dish taste off. Look for scallops labeled “dry-packed” at your seafood counter or grocery store. Thin or center-cut bacon is the way to go here — thick-cut takes too long to crisp, which risks overcooking the scallops before the bacon catches up.

• 1 lb (450g) large dry-packed sea scallops (about 12–16 scallops), side muscle removed
• 8 strips thin-cut or center-cut bacon, cut in half
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) pure maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• ½ teaspoon (1.5g) garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon (1.5g) Old Bay seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon (0.5g) black pepper
• Olive oil spray or cooking spray
• Toothpicks (for securing)
• Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish, optional)

Read Also: Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers Recipe

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Having the right tools set out before you start makes this recipe even smoother and faster to pull together. A digital meat thermometer is one of the most important tools here — scallops go from perfectly cooked to rubbery very quickly, and hitting that internal temperature of 120°F (49°C) is the most reliable indicator of doneness.

• Air fryer (basket-style or oven-style, at least 4-quart capacity)
• Instant-read meat thermometer
• Small mixing bowl
• Pastry brush or silicone basting brush
• Paper towels
• Toothpicks
• Tongs or a fork for flipping
• Serving platter

This technique works wonderfully with the same setup you’d use to make Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Chicken Breast.

Recommended Products for This Recipe

Here are a few products that can genuinely make a difference in how your bacon wrapped scallops turn out, based on quality and performance.

1. Instant Pot Omni Plus Air Fryer Oven

An oven-style air fryer gives you more space to lay scallops in a single layer without overcrowding, which is key to achieving crispy bacon all the way around. The Instant Pot Omni Plus circulates heat especially evenly, reducing the risk of hot spots that can lead to uneven cooking. It’s a versatile investment that works for everything from air frying to baking.

Get it on Amazon

2. ThermoPro Instant Read Thermometer

The single biggest way to avoid overcooked, rubbery scallops is to use a reliable thermometer. The ThermoPro reads temperature in seconds and takes the guesswork completely out of the equation. It’s a must-have tool for any seafood recipe.

Get it on Amazon

3. Dry-Packed Wild Sea Scallops (Frozen)

The quality of your scallops matters enormously in this recipe. Dry-packed wild sea scallops have no added chemicals, so they brown beautifully and taste clean and fresh. Many grocery stores carry them in the freezer section, and they thaw perfectly overnight in the fridge.

Get it on Amazon

4. Pure Organic Maple Syrup

Using real, pure maple syrup (not pancake syrup) makes a noticeable difference in the glaze. It has a richer, more complex flavor that caramelizes beautifully in the air fryer. Grade A Dark Amber or Grade B varieties bring the most depth to savory recipes.

Get it on Amazon

5. Air Fryer Parchment Paper Liners

Lining your air fryer basket with perforated parchment paper makes cleanup incredibly easy after cooking bacon-wrapped anything. The holes allow air to still circulate while catching the drips of bacon grease. These are reusable and come in multiple sizes to fit most basket-style air fryers.

Get it on Amazon

Another favorite: Air Fryer Bacon Recipe

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Scallops

• Remove the scallops from their packaging and check each one for the small, tough side muscle (a small rectangular piece attached to the side of the scallop). Pinch it between your fingers and pull it off — it comes away easily and would be chewy if left on.
• Place the scallops on a plate or cutting board lined with paper towels.
• Lay more paper towels on top and press gently but firmly to absorb as much moisture as possible. Dry scallops sear better and allow the glaze to cling more effectively — this step is critical for the best results.
• Season the scallops lightly on both sides with black pepper. Set aside.

Step 2: Pre-Cook the Bacon

• Cut each strip of bacon in half crosswise so you have shorter pieces that are easier to wrap around individual scallops.
• Place the bacon strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You may need to do this in two batches depending on your air fryer size.
• Air fry at 400°F (204°C) for 3 minutes. The bacon should be partially cooked but still pliable and not at all crispy — you want it flexible enough to wrap around the scallops without cracking.
• Remove the bacon and lay it on a paper towel-lined plate to cool slightly. This pre-cooking step is what ensures the bacon finishes cooking at the same rate as the scallops.

Step 3: Make the Maple-Soy Glaze

• In a small bowl, combine the maple syrup, soy sauce, garlic powder, and Old Bay seasoning.
• Whisk everything together until fully incorporated. The mixture should be glossy and smooth.
• Taste it — it should be balanced between sweet, salty, and lightly savory. Set the bowl aside with your pastry brush nearby for easy access.

Step 4: Wrap the Scallops

• Take one half-strip of partially cooked bacon and wrap it snugly around the equator (the widest middle part) of one scallop.
• Press the ends of the bacon where they overlap and insert a toothpick through both layers of bacon and straight through the center of the scallop. This keeps everything secure during cooking.
• Repeat with all the remaining scallops. If any scallops are particularly large, you may need a full strip of bacon to wrap around them properly.

Step 5: Preheat the Air Fryer and Load the Basket

• Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (204°C) for about 3 minutes. A hot air fryer basket helps everything start cooking immediately for better browning.
• Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or olive oil spray.
• Arrange the wrapped scallops in a single layer in the basket, standing upright with the toothpick helping to balance them if possible, or lying on their side. Make sure they do not touch each other — air needs to circulate freely around each one for even cooking and crispy bacon.
• If your scallops don’t all fit in one layer, cook them in batches. Do not stack or crowd them.

Step 6: Brush with Glaze and Cook

• Using your pastry brush, brush the tops and sides of each scallop generously with the maple-soy glaze.
• Air fry at 400°F (204°C) for 4 minutes.
• At the 4-minute mark, carefully use tongs to flip each scallop (or turn them to a different side). Brush with the remaining glaze.
• Continue cooking for another 4 minutes (8 minutes total), until the bacon is crispy and the scallops appear opaque and firm but still have a gentle give when lightly pressed.

Step 7: Check Doneness and Serve

• Use your instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of a scallop. You’re looking for 120°F (49°C) — remove them from the air fryer at this point and allow them to rest for 2–3 minutes. They will carry over to about 125°F–130°F (52°C–54°C) during resting, which is perfectly cooked.
• Do not wait until the thermometer reads 130°F inside the air fryer — they will continue cooking after being removed, and waiting too long will result in tough, rubbery scallops.
• Transfer the scallops to a serving platter. If desired, brush with any remaining glaze from the bottom of the basket for extra flavor.
• Remove toothpicks before serving (or instruct guests to do so).
• Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for color and a fresh herbal finish. Serve immediately.

Read Also: Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Asparagus Recipe

Tips for Success

A few smart techniques separate good bacon wrapped scallops from truly great ones. The most impactful thing you can do is pat the scallops as dry as possible — extra moisture creates steam, which prevents browning and can make the bacon soggy instead of crispy. The second most important habit is using a thermometer instead of relying solely on time, since air fryer models vary and scallop sizes differ.

• Always use dry-packed sea scallops, never wet-packed. Wet scallops have added water that prevents proper searing and browning.
• Pat scallops thoroughly dry with paper towels before seasoning — this is the single biggest step for a better final texture.
• Pre-cooking the bacon is non-negotiable. Skip this step and the scallops will be overcooked by the time the bacon gets crispy.
• Use thin-cut or center-cut bacon, not thick-cut. Thick bacon needs too much time to cook through.
• Never overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if needed — one layer only, with space between each scallop.
• Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Scallops go from perfect to rubbery in just one to two extra minutes of cooking.
• If using frozen scallops, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator in a sealed bag. Do not thaw at room temperature, and always pat them very dry before use.
• Brush with the glaze halfway through cooking rather than all at once — this builds a better lacquered crust.

The same attention to timing and temperature makes a big difference in Air Fryer Salmon too.

Serving Suggestions

Air fryer bacon wrapped scallops are incredibly versatile — they shine just as much as a sophisticated appetizer as they do served over a full dinner plate. The sweet-savory flavors pair especially well with bright, acidic sides that cut through the richness of the bacon, as well as creamy sides that complement the tender texture of the scallops.

• Serve over a bed of buttery risotto or creamy mashed potatoes for a hearty, elegant main course
• Plate alongside a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon and olive oil for a light, fresh contrast
• Arrange on a platter with Classic Deviled Eggs and bruschetta for an impressive appetizer spread
• Serve over a bed of pasta tossed in a light garlic butter sauce for a restaurant-style dinner
• Pair with roasted asparagus, roasted broccoli, or sugar snap peas for a complete, balanced plate
• Offer a small dipping bowl of cocktail sauce or a squeeze of fresh lemon on the side to brighten the flavors
• Serve with crusty garlic bread to soak up any glaze that drips onto the plate

For a beautiful appetizer pairing, try serving alongside Classic Bruschetta.

Variations to Try

Once you’ve nailed the base recipe, there are so many delicious directions to take it. The core technique stays the same — partially cook the bacon, wrap the scallops, air fry with a glaze or seasoning of your choice — but the flavor profile can shift dramatically based on what you brush or sprinkle on.

• Honey Butter Variation: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter with 1 tablespoon of honey and a pinch of Old Bay seasoning. Brush over the scallops before and halfway through cooking for a rich, sweet glaze.
• Cajun Spiced: Dust the scallops with Cajun seasoning before wrapping in bacon. Skip the maple glaze and instead spritz with olive oil for a bold, spicy result.
• BBQ Style: Brush with your favorite thin barbecue sauce instead of the maple-soy glaze. A thinner sauce works best — thick sauces can burn in the high heat.
• Lemon Garlic Butter: Melt butter with minced garlic and fresh lemon juice and brush over the scallops during cooking for a bright, savory finish.
• Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle a balsamic reduction over the finished scallops right before serving for an elevated, tangy-sweet presentation.
• Wrapped in Prosciutto: Substitute thin-sliced prosciutto for bacon for a slightly saltier, more delicate wrapping that cooks even faster.
• Teriyaki Style: Replace the maple-soy glaze with a homemade or store-bought teriyaki sauce for an Asian-inspired twist.

Read Also: Air Fryer Zucchini Boats Recipe

Storage and Reheating

Bacon wrapped scallops are best eaten immediately after cooking, while the bacon is at its crispiest and the scallops are at their most tender. That said, leftovers can be stored safely and reheated with a little care to keep them from turning rubbery.

• Allow leftover scallops to cool to room temperature before storing.
• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Do not freeze cooked scallops — they become watery and change texture significantly after freezing.
• To reheat, place the scallops back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3–4 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as this tends to make scallops rubbery and causes the bacon to lose its crispness.
• Do not reheat more than once. Repeated reheating significantly degrades both the texture of the scallops and the quality of the bacon.
• If prepping ahead, you can wrap the raw scallops in bacon and refrigerate (unbaked) for up to 24 hours before cooking. This is a great time-saving strategy for entertaining.

For another great make-ahead air fryer dish, try Air Fryer Chicken Breast.

Nutritional Facts

The following nutritional values are approximate and based on one serving of 4 scallops using the maple-soy glaze, center-cut bacon, and the quantities listed in this recipe. Values will vary based on the specific brands and exact sizes of ingredients used.

This recipe is naturally gluten-free when tamari is used in place of regular soy sauce, and it fits well into low-carb, paleo, and Whole30-adjacent eating patterns (using coconut aminos in place of maple syrup and soy sauce for strict versions).

Read Also: Air Fryer Salmon Bites Recipe

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

This dish isn’t just delicious — the core ingredients each bring something meaningful to the table from a nutrition standpoint. Sea scallops in particular are one of the most nutrient-dense proteins you can find, and combining them with a moderate amount of bacon and a maple-based glaze keeps the overall dish balanced.

• Sea Scallops are an excellent source of lean protein, with very little fat per serving. They’re also rich in vitamin B12, magnesium, potassium, and zinc, which support nerve health, muscle function, and immune health.
• Bacon in modest amounts contributes protein and important B vitamins including niacin and thiamine. Using center-cut bacon keeps the saturated fat content lower than regular varieties.
• Maple Syrup is a natural sweetener that contains small amounts of manganese, zinc, and antioxidants. In the small quantities used in this glaze, it adds flavor without a large sugar load.
• Garlic Powder contains allicin compounds with well-documented anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Even in small amounts, garlic adds functional value beyond just flavor.
• Old Bay Seasoning is a blend of spices including celery salt, paprika, and red pepper that contains no added sugars and is very low in calories while contributing antioxidant-rich spice compounds.

For a lighter seafood option, Air Fryer Salmon Patties are another nutrient-packed choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?

Yes, frozen scallops work well in this recipe as long as you thaw them properly first. Place them in a sealed bag and thaw in cold water for 30–45 minutes, or thaw overnight in the refrigerator. The key step is to pat them very thoroughly dry with paper towels before seasoning and wrapping — frozen scallops release more moisture during thawing, and any excess water will prevent proper browning and can make the bacon soggy.

2. How do I know when the scallops are done?

The most reliable method is an instant-read thermometer. Remove the scallops from the air fryer when the internal temperature reaches 120°F (49°C) and let them rest for 2–3 minutes — they’ll carry over to about 125°F–130°F (52°C–54°C), which is the ideal cooked temperature. Visually, properly cooked scallops will appear opaque throughout and feel slightly firm but still have a gentle give when lightly pressed, similar to the feel of a barely set gelatin.

3. Can I make these ahead of time for a party?

You can absolutely prep them ahead. Wrap the raw scallops in the partially pre-cooked bacon, secure with toothpicks, and refrigerate in a single layer on a covered tray for up to 24 hours before cooking. Make the glaze ahead too and keep it refrigerated in a small jar. When your guests arrive, pop them in the air fryer fresh — they only take about 8 minutes to cook from a cold start, so the timing is very manageable for entertaining.

4. Why do I need to pre-cook the bacon?

Scallops cook very quickly — typically in 8–10 minutes — while bacon needs more time to render its fat and get crispy. If you wrap the scallops in raw bacon and cook them together from the start, the scallops will be overcooked and rubbery by the time the bacon finishes crisping up. Partially pre-cooking the bacon for 3 minutes syncs up the two cooking times so both the scallops and the bacon finish at the same moment in perfect condition.

5. What kind of scallops should I buy?

Always use large sea scallops, not bay scallops. Bay scallops are much smaller and will overcook almost instantly when wrapped in bacon. For sea scallops, look specifically for “dry-packed” varieties — these have not been treated with sodium tripolyphosphate (STP), a preservative that adds extra water weight and prevents browning. Dry-packed scallops are more flavorful, sear better, and produce a far superior finished dish. Ask at your seafood counter if you’re unsure, and check the label on frozen bags carefully before purchasing.

For more seafood inspiration, Air Fryer Frozen Salmon is another quick weeknight favorite.

Final Thoughts

This Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Scallops Recipe is proof that impressive, restaurant-quality food doesn’t have to require hours in the kitchen or professional cooking skills.

With just a handful of ingredients, a simple glaze, and about 20 minutes, you get tender, juicy scallops wrapped in perfectly crisped bacon with a caramelized sweet-savory crust that is genuinely hard to stop eating.

The pre-cooking technique for the bacon and the maple-soy glaze are the two details that elevate this recipe from good to really memorable.

Give this recipe a try for your next dinner party appetizer, date night in, or even a special weeknight treat — you won’t be disappointed.

If you make this dish, leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out! I’d love to hear your experience, and if you tried any of the variations, share which one was your favorite.

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• Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Chicken Breast
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