Description
Cook bacon wrapped scallops quickly in the air fryer for a crispy exterior and tender center. This recipe provides simple steps for perfect results.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound large sea scallops, patted very dry
- 12 slices thin-cut bacon, halved lengthwise
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 2 tablespoons maple syrup for glazing
Instructions
- Pat the scallops completely dry using paper towels. This helps the bacon crisp.
- In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper. Toss the dry scallops lightly in the seasoning mix.
- Take one slice of bacon half and wrap it tightly around the middle of each seasoned scallop. Secure the bacon with a toothpick if necessary, though a tight wrap often holds.
- Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (195°C) for 3 minutes.
- Arrange the bacon wrapped scallops in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd the basket; work in batches if needed.
- Air fry for 8 minutes.
- If using maple syrup, brush the tops lightly with the syrup after 8 minutes.
- Continue to air fry for another 3 to 5 minutes, or until the bacon is crisp and the scallops are opaque throughout. Total cook time is usually 11 to 13 minutes.
- Remove immediately and serve hot. Remove toothpicks before serving.
Notes
- Ensure your scallops are dry before seasoning and wrapping; moisture prevents crisping.
- If your bacon is very thick, you may need to increase the cook time by 2-3 minutes.
- For extra flavor, you can marinate the scallops in a little lemon juice and olive oil for 15 minutes before seasoning and wrapping.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 13 min
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 scallops
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 250
- Fat: 12
- Saturated Fat: 4
- Unsaturated Fat: 8
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 2
- Fiber: 0
- Protein: 16
- Cholesterol: 55