Bacon wrapped scallops in an air fryer cook evenly with a crisp exterior and tender, buttery center. If you want to know how to make bacon wrapped scallops in air fryer, this guide walks you through every step. You only need a few ingredients and about 20 minutes.
The air fryer is perfect for this dish. It circulates hot air around each scallop, so the bacon gets crispy without deep frying. The scallop stays soft and juicy inside.
This recipe works for a quick dinner, a party snack, or a fancy appetizer. Lets get started.
Why Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Scallops Work So Well
Scallops are delicate. They cook fast and can turn rubbery if you overdo them. Bacon needs more time to get crisp. That is the classic problem with this combo.
The air fryer solves it. High heat from all sides crisps the bacon quickly while the scallop stays moist. You get both textures in one bite.
Another bonus: no oil splatter on your stove. Cleanup is easy too. Just wipe the basket after it cools.
Ingredients You Will Need
Keep it simple. Here is what to grab at the store.
- 12 large sea scallops (fresh or thawed, not bay scallops)
- 6 slices of thin-cut bacon
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (use less if bacon is salty)
- Toothpicks (wooden, soaked in water for 10 minutes)
- Optional: lemon wedges and chopped parsley for serving
Thin bacon is key. Thick-cut bacon will not cook through in the same time as the scallop. If you only have thick bacon, par-cook it in the microwave for 1 to 2 minutes first.
How To Make Bacon Wrapped Scallops In Air Fryer
Follow these steps in order. Do not skip the soaking step for toothpicks. Dry toothpicks can burn in the air fryer.
Step 1: Prep The Scallops
Pat the scallops very dry with paper towels. Moisture is the enemy of crispy bacon. Pull off the small side muscle if it is still attached. It is a tough little flap that does not chew well.
Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Let them sit for 5 minutes.
Step 2: Wrap The Bacon
Cut each bacon slice in half crosswise. You now have 12 short strips.
Wrap one strip around the side of each scallop. The bacon should overlap slightly. Secure it with a toothpick pushed through the overlap and into the scallop.
Do not wrap too tight. The scallop will shrink a bit as it cooks, and tight bacon can squeeze it.
Step 3: Preheat The Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for 3 to 5 minutes. A hot basket helps the bacon start crisping right away.
Lightly brush the basket or rack with oil. This stops the bacon from sticking.
Step 4: Arrange In A Single Layer
Place the wrapped scallops in the basket. Leave space between each one. If they touch, the bacon steams instead of crisps.
Cook in batches if needed. Do not crowd the basket.
Step 5: Air Fry And Flip
- Air fry at 400°F for 6 minutes.
- Open the basket and flip each scallop with tongs.
- Air fry for another 3 to 4 minutes.
- Check the bacon. It should look deep brown and crisp.
- If needed, add 1 more minute. Watch closely so the scallops do not overcook.
Total cook time is usually 9 to 11 minutes. Smaller scallops may finish in 8 minutes. Larger ones may take 12.
Step 6: Rest And Serve
Move the scallops to a plate. Let them rest for 2 minutes. This keeps the juices inside.
Remove the toothpicks before eating, or warn your guests. Squeeze fresh lemon over the top. Sprinkle with parsley if you like.
Tips For Perfect Results Every Time
- Buy dry-packed scallops, not ones soaked in a phosphate solution. Wet scallops release water and steam the bacon.
- Thaw frozen scallops in the fridge overnight. Pat them dry again before cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer if you want to be exact. Scallops are done at 125°F to 130°F internally.
- Do not overcook. Overcooked scallops turn chewy and lose their sweetness.
- For extra flavor, brush the bacon with a little maple syrup during the last 2 minutes. It helps browning.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
Using Thick-Cut Bacon
Thick bacon needs 15 minutes or more. By then, the scallop is ruined. Stick with thin-cut slices.
Skipping The Dry Step
If the scallop is wet, the bacon will not stick or crisp. Dry it well with paper towels.
Overcrowding The Basket
Air needs to move around each piece. Crowding traps steam and makes everything soggy.
Not Soaking The Toothpicks
Dry wooden toothpicks can char and leave a burnt taste. Soak them for at least 10 minutes.
Serving Ideas And Storage
These scallops pair well with rice pilaf, a simple green salad, or roasted asparagus. For a party, serve them on a platter with lemon wedges and a small bowl of garlic aioli.
Leftovers keep in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F for 3 to 4 minutes. Do not use the microwave. It makes the bacon limp and the scallop tough.
You can also assemble the wrapped scallops a few hours ahead. Keep them covered in the fridge until you are ready to cook. This makes party prep much easier.
With a hot air fryer and a watchful eye, you get a restaurant-style appetizer at home. Crisp bacon outside. Buttery scallop inside. Give this method a try for your next meal or gathering.