Low Carb 3-Ingredient Bacon-Wrapped Scallops
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
Total Time: 25–30 minutes
Servings: 4
Category: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Diet: Low Carb, Keto-Friendly
Ingredients
– 12 large sea scallops, patted completely dry
– 6 slices thin-cut bacon, cut in half
– ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
You will also need: Toothpicks and aluminum foil.
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easier cleanup.
2. Prepare the bacon: Place the bacon slices in a skillet over medium heat and cook for about 2–3 minutes per side, just until they begin to soften and release some fat. They should remain flexible, not crispy.
3. Prepare the scallops: Pat the scallops thoroughly dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps them brown beautifully during baking.
4. Season: Sprinkle the scallops evenly with black pepper.
5. Wrap the scallops: Wrap one half-slice of bacon around the sides of each scallop. Secure with a toothpick so the bacon stays in place.
6. Arrange on the baking sheet: Place the bacon-wrapped scallops upright or flat on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
7. Bake: Bake for approximately 12–15 minutes, turning once if needed, until the scallops are opaque and cooked through and the bacon is browned. Cooking time will depend on scallop size and bacon thickness.
8. Crisp the bacon: If needed, switch the oven to broil for 1–2 minutes to crisp the bacon. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
9. Serve: Remove from the oven, let rest briefly, carefully remove or loosen the toothpicks, and serve warm.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
– Only 3 ingredients: Simple ingredients create an impressive appetizer.
– Low-carb and keto-friendly: No breadcrumbs, flour, or sugary sauces.
– Perfect party food: Easy to serve and delicious for entertaining.
– Smoky and savory: Crispy bacon pairs beautifully with sweet, tender scallops.
– Quick preparation: Ready in about 30 minutes.
Helpful Tips
– Choose large sea scallops so they hold their shape while baking.
– Always pat scallops dry before wrapping them in bacon.
– Thin-cut bacon works best because it cooks faster than thick-cut bacon.
– Partially cook the bacon first to help it crisp without overcooking the scallops.
– Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet.
– Cook scallops until their centers reach 145°F (63°C) for food safety.
– Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delicious bacon-wrapped scallops with:
– Garlic butter dipping sauce
– Fresh lemon wedges
– Roasted asparagus
– Cauliflower mash
– A fresh green salad
– Garlic butter green beans
– Creamy cauliflower rice
Storage
Refrigerate leftover cooked scallops in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 325°F until heated through. Avoid microwaving for too long, as scallops can become rubbery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen scallops?
Yes! Thaw them completely in the refrigerator and pat them very dry before preparing.
Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes. Wrap and secure the scallops with bacon a few hours ahead. Keep refrigerated until ready to bake.
Are bacon-wrapped scallops keto-friendly?
Yes! Scallops and bacon are naturally low in carbohydrates. Check bacon labels for added sugars if following a strict keto diet.
Can I cook them in an air fryer?
Yes. Arrange them in a single layer and air-fry at 390°F (200°C) for approximately 8–12 minutes, checking for doneness and crisp bacon.
Final Thoughts
These 3-Ingredient Bacon-Wrapped Scallops prove that a delicious appetizer doesn’t need a long ingredient list. With tender scallops, smoky bacon, and a little black pepper, you get an irresistible combination that’s perfect for everything from casual family dinners to special celebrations. Make a batch, serve them warm, and watch them disappear!