Let me tell you, the scent of sizzling bacon mingling with the sweet, briny aroma of fresh scallops is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. The first time I made these crispy bacon-wrapped scallops with zesty lemon butter was on a slow Sunday afternoon when I was knee-high to a grasshopper. Well, maybe not that long ago, but it definitely feels like a treasured family memory in the making. The kind of moment where you pause, take a deep breath, and just smile because you know you’re onto something truly special.

I stumbled upon this recipe while trying to recreate a fancy appetizer I once had at a friend’s dinner party. Honestly, I wish I’d found it years ago because my family couldn’t stop sneaking them off the cooling rack (and I can’t really blame them). These scallops wrapped in smoky, crisp bacon, paired with a tangy lemon butter sauce, offer pure, nostalgic comfort that’s dangerously easy to whip up.

Let’s face it, this recipe is perfect for potlucks, date nights, or those moments when you want to impress without the stress. Whether you’re brightening up your Pinterest cookie board or just craving a sweet and savory bite, these bacon-wrapped scallops with lemon butter are a guaranteed winner. I’ve tested this recipe more times than I can count (in the name of research, of course), and it’s become a staple for family gatherings and gifting alike. You’re going to want to bookmark this one.

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Scallops Recipe

After spending countless hours in the kitchen perfecting this recipe, I can confidently say it’s one of those dishes that checks all the boxes. Here’s why you’ll fall head over heels for these crispy bacon-wrapped scallops with zesty lemon butter:

• Quick & Easy: Comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner ideas.
• Simple Ingredients: No fancy grocery trips needed; you likely already have everything in your kitchen pantry.
• Perfect for Entertaining: Great for potlucks, dinner parties, or a special appetizer that wows guests every time.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Always gets rave reviews from kids and adults alike — who can resist bacon and scallops?
• Unbelievably Delicious: The crispy texture of the bacon paired with tender scallops and a bright, tangy lemon butter sauce is next-level comfort food.

What sets this recipe apart? It’s the balance of textures and flavors—the scallops stay juicy inside, while the bacon crisps up perfectly without drying out. The zesty lemon butter adds a fresh, vibrant note that cuts through the richness and brings everything together. Honestly, it’s comfort food reimagined—faster, lighter, but with the same soul-soothing satisfaction.

Whether you’re impressing guests without breaking a sweat or turning a simple meal into something memorable, this recipe delivers every time. It’s the kind of dish where you close your eyes after the first bite and just savor the moment.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and satisfying texture without the fuss. Most are pantry staples, making it easy to whip up anytime you want.

• Large Sea Scallops: About 12 pieces, patted dry (essential for a good sear and to avoid sogginess).
• Bacon Slices: 6 slices, cut in half (I prefer thick-cut bacon for best crispiness; [Oscar Mayer](https://www.oscarmayer.com) works great).
• Unsalted Butter: 4 tablespoons, divided (adds richness without overpowering).
• Fresh Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons (freshly squeezed for bright, clean flavor).
• Garlic Cloves: 2, minced (gives a subtle kick and depth).
• Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, finely chopped (adds color and freshness).
• Salt and Pepper: To taste (seasoning is key for flavor balance).
• Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon (helps sear the scallops without burning the bacon).

Substitution tips: Use turkey bacon for a lighter option, or coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free twist. If fresh lemon is out of season, bottled lemon juice works in a pinch but fresh always wins. For a gluten-free version, this recipe is naturally safe—just double-check your bacon brand.

Equipment Needed

• Large Skillet or Cast Iron Pan: For crisping bacon and searing scallops evenly (cast iron gives the best crust).
• Toothpicks or Small Skewers: To secure bacon around scallops without fuss.
• Small Mixing Bowl: For whisking lemon butter sauce.
• Tongs: For flipping scallops carefully without losing the bacon wrap.
• Paper Towels: To pat dry scallops and drain excess bacon grease.

If you don’t have a cast iron skillet, a heavy-bottomed non-stick pan works fine. I’ve used budget-friendly non-stick pans with great results, just keep an eye on the heat to avoid scorching. Toothpicks are a must-have here; I keep a stash in my kitchen for recipes like this—so handy!

Preparation Method

1. Prep the Scallops: Pat 12 large sea scallops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture—this is crucial for getting a nice sear. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Tip: Dry scallops mean crispy bacon and a golden crust.
2. Wrap with Bacon: Cut 6 slices of thick-cut bacon in half. Wrap each scallop with half a slice, securing with a toothpick. Set aside on a plate. Note: Don’t overlap the bacon too much; it needs room to crisp.
3. Cook Bacon-Wrapped Scallops: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add scallops bacon-side down. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, turning carefully with tongs, until bacon is crispy and scallops are opaque and firm but not rubbery. Warning: Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed.
4. Make the Lemon Butter Sauce: While scallops cook, melt 4 tablespoons unsalted butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute). Remove from heat and stir in 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice and 2 tablespoons chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Plate and Serve: Arrange scallops on a serving platter. Drizzle generously with the zesty lemon butter sauce. Garnish with extra parsley or lemon wedges if desired. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor. Personal tip: This sauce is great spooned over a bed of rice or alongside steamed veggies.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Getting those scallops wrapped in bacon just right can be a little tricky at first, but trust me—it’s worth the learning curve. Here’s what I’ve picked up from my kitchen adventures:

• Dry Scallops Are a Game-Changer: Always pat dry before cooking. Moisture is the enemy of crisp bacon and a golden sear.
• Medium-High Heat Is Your Friend: Too hot, and bacon burns before scallops cook through; too low, and bacon stays chewy. Adjust heat as you go to keep the perfect balance.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give each scallop room to crisp. Overcrowding causes steaming instead of searing.
• Turn Carefully: Use tongs and flip gently to keep the bacon wrapped snugly around scallops.
• Make Sauce Last Minute: Lemon butter sauce tastes freshest when made just before serving. Garlic can burn quickly, so low and slow is key here.

In early attempts, I once ended up with soggy bacon because I skipped drying the scallops. Lesson learned! Also, multitasking by prepping the sauce while scallops cook saves loads of time and keeps everything warm and fresh.

Variations & Adaptations

Feel free to tweak this recipe to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are some ideas I’ve tried or recommend:

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the lemon butter sauce for a subtle heat that complements the smoky bacon.
• Herb Swap: Try fresh thyme or dill instead of parsley for a different herbal note in the sauce.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use olive oil or a vegan butter substitute for the sauce and swap bacon with coconut bacon or tempeh strips.
• Grilled Option: Wrap scallops and bacon on skewers and grill for 2-3 minutes per side for a smoky outdoor flavor.
• Seasonal Twist: In summer, serve with a fresh mango salsa on the side for a bright contrast.

Personally, I love adding a little smoked paprika to the bacon before wrapping for an extra depth of flavor. It’s a small change that makes a big difference!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These crispy bacon-wrapped scallops are best served hot, right off the pan, to enjoy that perfect balance of tender scallop and crunchy bacon. Plate them on a bed of lightly dressed arugula or alongside creamy mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Pair with a chilled glass of crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light beer to complement the richness. For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a splash of lemon brightens the palate beautifully.

If you have leftovers (and sometimes I do, if I’m lucky), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat to avoid overcooking the scallops or making the bacon chewy. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep that crisp texture.

Flavors actually deepen a bit after a day, making leftovers a nice treat the next day—just reheat carefully!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This dish offers a good balance of protein from the scallops and healthy fats from the butter and bacon. Scallops are low in calories and packed with omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B12, and minerals like magnesium and potassium.

The lemon juice adds vitamin C and antioxidants, while parsley brings in vitamin K and iron. Bacon, while indulgent, adds flavor and satisfaction, so moderate portions work best.

This recipe is naturally gluten-free and can be adapted for dairy-free diets with simple swaps. Just be mindful of bacon brand ingredients if you have allergies or dietary restrictions.

For those watching calories, serving with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad makes for a light, nutrient-packed meal that still feels like a special occasion.

Conclusion

These crispy bacon-wrapped scallops with zesty lemon butter sauce are more than just a recipe—they’re a little celebration on a plate. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create something truly impressive that tastes like it took hours to perfect.

Feel free to customize the herbs or spice level to make it your own. Honestly, I love this recipe because it combines indulgence and freshness in every bite—perfect for treating yourself or impressing loved ones.

Give it a try, share your tweaks, and let me know how it turns out! Trust me, once you’ve made these, they’ll become a go-to for special dinners and casual get-togethers alike. Happy cooking!

FAQs About Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Scallops with Zesty Lemon Butter

Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry thoroughly. Removing excess moisture is key to getting that crispy bacon and nice sear.

What if I don’t have toothpicks?

You can carefully wrap the bacon tightly around scallops and press to hold, but toothpicks make flipping easier and keep the bacon secure. Wooden skewers cut into smaller pieces work too.

How do I prevent bacon from burning before scallops cook?

Cook over medium to medium-high heat and turn scallops regularly. Thick-cut bacon crisps slower and helps avoid burning. If bacon cooks too fast, lower heat slightly.

Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Wrap scallops in bacon and refrigerate up to 2 hours before cooking. Make the lemon butter sauce fresh when ready to serve for best flavor.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Light salads, steamed veggies, mashed potatoes, or a simple rice pilaf complement the rich flavors beautifully.

Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Scallops Recipe with Easy Zesty Lemon Butter Sauce

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• Author: David
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 12 scallops (about 6 servings as appetizer) 1x

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Description

This recipe features tender sea scallops wrapped in crispy bacon, served with a bright and tangy lemon butter sauce. Perfect for quick appetizers or elegant dinners, it combines smoky, savory, and fresh flavors in under 30 minutes.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 large sea scallops, patted dry
• 6 slices thick-cut bacon, cut in half
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

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Instructions

1. Pat 12 large sea scallops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Cut 6 slices of thick-cut bacon in half. Wrap each scallop with half a slice, securing with a toothpick. Set aside on a plate.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add scallops bacon-side down. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, turning carefully with tongs, until bacon is crispy and scallops are opaque and firm but not rubbery. Cook in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding.
4. While scallops cook, melt 4 tablespoons unsalted butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Remove from heat and stir in 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice and 2 tablespoons chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Arrange scallops on a serving platter. Drizzle generously with the zesty lemon butter sauce. Garnish with extra parsley or lemon wedges if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

Pat scallops dry before cooking to ensure crispy bacon and a golden sear. Cook over medium-high heat and avoid overcrowding the pan. Make lemon butter sauce just before serving for freshest flavor. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated gently in a skillet.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 scallops per servi
• Calories: 180
• Sodium: 350
• Fat: 14
• Saturated Fat: 6
• Carbohydrates: 1
• Protein: 10

Keywords: bacon wrapped scallops, lemon butter sauce, appetizer, seafood, easy recipe, quick dinner, party food