Bacon-Wrapped Scallops with Maple Glaze
These bacon-wrapped scallops are a show-stopping appetizer featuring tender sea scallops wrapped in crisp bacon and brushed with a sticky maple glaze. Quick to prepare and irresistibly delicious, they’re perfect for parties, holidays, or a special weeknight treat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 16–20 scallops (about 4–6 servings) 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb large sea scallops (16–20 count per pound), patted dry
- 8–10 slices thick-cut bacon, halved crosswise
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup (Grade A Dark recommended)
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Kosher salt, a pinch
- Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
- Lemon wedges (for serving, optional)
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil and set a wire rack inside if available.
- Arrange bacon slices in a single layer on the rack or a plate lined with paper towels. Microwave for 1–2 minutes or bake for 5–7 minutes until fat starts to render but bacon is still pliable.
- Pat scallops dry with paper towels. Sprinkle both sides with kosher salt and black pepper.
- Wrap each scallop with half a slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick. Place on the prepared rack, spacing apart.
- In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, and smoked paprika.
- Brush each scallop with a thin layer of maple glaze. Bake for 12 minutes.
- Flip each scallop using tongs, brush with more glaze, and bake for 5–8 more minutes until bacon is crispy and scallops are opaque.
- Remove toothpicks and transfer scallops to a platter. Sprinkle with parsley and serve with lemon wedges and red pepper flakes if desired.
- Let rest for 2 minutes before serving.
Notes
For best results, use ‘dry’ scallops and par-cook the bacon so it crisps without overcooking the scallops. If bacon isn’t crisping, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end. Assemble ahead up to 4 hours, then glaze and bake before serving. Air fryer method works well for extra crispiness. Always check labels for gluten-free ingredients if needed.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 scallop
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 4
- Sodium: 250
- Fat: 5
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Carbohydrates: 5
- Protein: 6
Keywords: bacon-wrapped scallops, maple glaze, appetizer, party food, seafood, holiday, easy, gluten-free, dairy-free