Description
Air Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Scallops
Ingredients
12 large sea scallops (patted dry)
6 slices of bacon (cut in half)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Dipping sauce of choice (optional)
Directions
Pre-cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes (until partially cooked but still pliable).
Season scallops with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Wrap each scallop with a half slice of bacon and secure with a toothpick.
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
Arrange bacon-wrapped scallops in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the bacon is crispy and scallops are cooked through.
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 210 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time. First, ensure your scallops are thoroughly patted dry; this is crucial for a good sear. Next, partially cook the bacon in a skillet until it’s just beginning to brown but remains very flexible. This prevents undercooked bacon. While the bacon cools, toss the dry scallops in olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Wrap each scallop snugly with a half-slice of bacon and secure it with a soaked toothpick (to prevent burning). Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes. Arrange the scallops in a single layer with space between them for optimal air circulation. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, pausing to carefully flip each one at the halfway mark. Cook until the bacon is crisp and the scallops are opaque.
Serving Suggestions
These elegant bites are versatile. Serve them as a hot appetizer on a platter with lemon wedges and a drizzle of garlic aioli or a spicy sriracha mayo. For a main course, plate them over a bed of creamy risotto, buttery mashed potatoes, or a fresh arugula salad with a light lemon vinaigrette. A crisp, chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a dry sparkling wine makes an excellent pairing to cut through the richness.
How-to Summary
Dry scallops, partially cook bacon, season, wrap, secure, preheat air fryer to 400°F, cook for 8-10 minutes while flipping halfway, and garnish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen scallops? Yes, but they must be completely thawed and patted extremely dry to avoid steaming.
How do I prevent the toothpicks from burning? Soak wooden toothpicks in water for 10-15 minutes before using them.
My bacon isn’t getting crispy. What should I do? Ensure you pre-cook the bacon and that your scallops are dry. If needed, cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
Can I prepare these ahead of time? You can wrap the scallops and refrigerate them for up to 2 hours before cooking. Let them sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before air frying.
What’s the best way to tell if the scallops are done? The scallops should be opaque and firm to the touch, and the internal temperature should reach 115-120°F.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using wet scallops, which leads to steaming instead of searing.
- Skipping the step of pre-cooking the bacon, resulting in rubbery fat.
- Overcrowding the air fryer basket, which causes uneven cooking.
- Overcooking the scallops, making them tough and chewy.
- Forgetting to soak toothpicks, which can cause them to burn or smoke.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Scallops are a stunning yet surprisingly simple dish that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create an impressive appetizer or main course that is sure to delight. The combination of sweet, tender scallops and savory, crispy bacon is truly irresistible. This recipe proves that gourmet-quality results are easily achievable right in your own kitchen with the help of your air fryer.