Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Scallops

Crispy, juicy and delicious, this Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Scallops recipe is the perfect combination of flavors. Made with crispy bacon wrapped around tender, juicy scallops, this recipe is ideal for special occasions, dinner parties, or an elegant appetizer everyone will love.

Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Scallops are like a bite-sized version of surf and turf, combining the sweetness of scallops with the smoky richness of bacon. Using the air fryer, you can cook them to perfection in just 10 minutes.

I love this recipe because it makes an impressive appetizer in literally no time. The salty, smoky bacon pairs beautifully with the delicate sweetness of the scallops, creating a dish that’s sure to impress! 

Looking for more delicious Air Fryer seafood recipes? Check out my Easy Air Fryer Crab Cakes, Air Fryer Salmon with Mushroom Sauce, Air Fryer Seafood Boil or this Air Fryer Crispy Shrimp.

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Scallops

• Quick and Easy: These Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Scallops are ready in just 10 minutes. So simple, yet so impressive looking!
• Perfectly Balanced Flavor: The smoky bacon enhances the natural sweetness of the scallops. The perfect surf and turf style appetizer!
• Crispy and Juicy: The air fryer ensures the bacon is crisp while the scallops stay tender and moist. Always cooked to perfection.
• Perfect as appetizers: These bite-sized appetizers look as amazing as they taste, and they’re sure to impress all your dinner guests!

Ingredients Needed

• Scallops – Large, fresh scallops are ideal for this recipe. Pat them dry to help them cook evenly.
• Bacon – I recommend using smoked, thin cut bacon. Cut the slices in half for easy wrapping.
• Olive Oil – A light spray helps crisp up the bacon and adds a touch of richness.
• Salt and Pepper – Simple seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the scallops and bacon.
• Toothpicks – Help keep the bacon wrapped snuggly around the scallops. Make sure you use metal or wooden toothpicks, not plastic. 

How to Make Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Scallops

Prepare the scallops: Pat dry the scallops with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. 

Wrap the scallops: Cut the bacon slices in half. Wrap each scallop with a half slice of bacon and secure it with a toothpick. Repeat for all the remaining pieces. 

Season and arrange: Place the wrapped scallops in the air fryer basket, ensuring they’re in a single layer without overlapping. Spray lightly with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.

Cook in the air fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 370 degrees F (190°C). Set the cook time for the scallops for 5 minutes, then flip and cook for another 5 minutes.

Check for doneness: The bacon should be crisp, and the scallops opaque and tender. Remove from the air fryer and let cool slightly before serving.

Serve and enjoy: Plate the bacon wrapped scallops and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or a squeeze of lemon.

Variations

• Garlic Butter Scallops: Brush the scallops with garlic butter after wrapping them in bacon for extra richness and flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Sprinkle the scallops with a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a spicy twist.
• Maple Glaze: Drizzle maple syrup over the scallops before air frying for a caramelized flavor. 
• Herb Infusion: Add fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs to the toothpicks for a subtle fresh aroma.
• Cheesy Finish: Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the scallops during the last minute of cooking for a cheesy topping.

Bacon Wrapped Scallops Air Fryer Recipe Pro Tips

• Use fresh scallops: Fresh scallops yield the best flavor and texture. If using frozen scallops, thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking.
• Don’t overcook: Scallops cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to ensure they stay tender and don’t become rubbery.
• Choose thin bacon: Thin-cut bacon wraps easily around the scallops and cooks evenly in the air fryer.
• Secure with toothpicks: Use toothpicks to keep the bacon in place during cooking. Do not use plastic toothpicks. Remove them before serving. 
• Preheat the air fryer: Preheating ensures even cooking and helps the bacon crisp up perfectly.

Serving Suggestions

• Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors and adds a zesty kick.
• Fresh Salad: Serve with a simple green salad or arugula for a light, refreshing side. 
• Coleslaw: This recipe works well with coleslaw, which adds extra creaminess. 
• Dipping Sauces: Offer a variety of dips like tartar sauce, garlic aioli, honey mustard, or balsamic glaze for added flavor.
  

Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Scallops Recipe Faqs

Can I use bay scallops instead of sea scallops? Yes, but bay scallops are smaller, so you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and possibly use smaller bacon slices.

Can I prepare these in advance? Absolutely! Wrap the scallops in bacon and store them in the fridge for up to a day. Cook them in the air fryer just before serving.

What dipping sauces go well with this recipe? Tartar sauce, lemon aioli, or a sweet chili sauce pair beautifully with the smoky, savory flavors.

How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to retain their crispness.

More Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Recipes

• AIR FRYER BACON AND CRAB ROLLS
• AIR FRYER BACON WRAPPED PEACHES
• AIR FRYER BACON WRAPPED MEATLOAF
• AIR FRYER BACON WRAPPED DATES
• AIR FRYER BACON WRAPPED POTATOES
• AIR FRYER BACON WRAPPED PINEAPPLE

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