Crispy Seared Scallops with Bacon

Name: Crispy Seared Scallops with Bacon
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound large scallops; 4 slices of bacon, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 tablespoons butter; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making crispy seared scallops with bacon, as their flavors pair magnificently. The sweet and delicate scallops come alive with a touch of crispy, salty bacon that adds an incredible depth to each bite. It’s an impressive dish that’s surprisingly easy to prepare, making it perfect for both casual gatherings and elegant dinners. Every time I serve this dish, it never fails to impress friends and family alike, and they always ask for more!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-22T10:21:28.468Z

When I first discovered how to perfectly sear scallops, it was a game changer. I experimented with different marinades and cooking times, but ultimately found that simply seasoning them with salt and pepper before a quick sear achieves the perfect crispy exterior while keeping the middle deliciously tender. The key is to ensure your pan is hot enough so that they caramelize beautifully, forming that satisfying crust.

One tip I always share is to pat the scallops dry before cooking. Moisture is the enemy of that beautiful sear! It’s worth taking the extra time to ensure your scallops are dry; the results speak for themselves when you take that first bite and experience the crunchy texture followed by the soft, buttery interior mixed with crispy bacon.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Irresistible combination of sweet scallops and savory bacon
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion
The contrast of textures makes each bite a delightful experience

      

Mastering Scallop Searing

The key to achieving a perfect sear on your scallops lies in their preparation. Make sure to pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels, as excess moisture can prevent them from browning properly. When you season the scallops, don't be shy with the salt and pepper—this not only enhances their natural sweetness but also helps create a delightful crust. If you hear a sizzling sound when the scallops hit the pan, you're well on your way to that golden-brown finish.

Using high heat is essential when searing scallops. After adding the scallops to the skillet, resist the urge to move them around. Let them sear undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until they develop that beautiful brown crust. If you find they're sticking to the pan, it may mean the heat is too low, or the scallops weren't adequately dried. A good test is to gently poke a scallop; if it's ready to flip, it should release with minimal resistance.

Bacon's Role and Variations

Bacon not only adds a savory crunch to the dish but also infuses the scallops with a rich flavor through its drippings. Take care to use a good quality bacon; thick-cut varieties work best, as they provide a satisfying texture and a robust taste. You can also experiment with different types of bacon like applewood smoked or even pancetta for a unique twist. Just remember to adjust the cooking time based on the thickness; thicker cuts will require a slightly longer cooking time.

If you're looking for a lighter version or want to accommodate dietary restrictions, consider substituting the bacon with sautéed mushrooms or crispy kale. While these won’t replicate the same flavor as bacon, they do add a pleasant crunch and can complement the scallops beautifully. For a spicy kick, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to your bacon while cooking, which can provide an exciting contrast to the scallops' sweetness.

Serving Suggestions and Storage

For an elegant presentation, arrange the scallops and bacon on a bed of sautéed greens, such as spinach or arugula. Drizzling a balsamic reduction or a squeeze of lemon juice over the dish adds a fresh acidity that can balance the richness of the scallops and bacon. If you're preparing this dish for company, consider serving it with a side of risotto or garlic mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious juices.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, gently warm the scallops in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes to prevent overcooking. Avoid microwaving them, as this can lead to a rubbery texture. If you're planning to make this dish ahead of time, consider cooking the bacon separately and storing it, then searing the scallops fresh just before serving.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious dish:

Ingredients

1 pound large scallops
4 slices of bacon, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Now that you have your ingredients, let's get cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to achieve perfectly seared scallops:

Cook the Bacon

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it’s crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside, leaving the drippings in the pan.

Prepare the Scallops

Pat the scallops dry with paper towels and season them generously with salt and pepper on both sides.

Sear the Scallops

Increase the heat to high and add olive oil and butter to the skillet. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, gently place the scallops in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Combine and Serve

Once the scallops are done, return the crispy bacon to the skillet and toss to combine. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley.

Enjoy your crispy seared scallops with bacon as an appetizer or main course!

Pro Tips

For the best results, choose scallops that are dry-packed and avoid those in a brine, as moisture prevents a good sear. Always serve them immediately after cooking for the best texture.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your scallops aren't browning as expected, check the heat level and ensure your skillet is preheated adequately. A hot pan is essential for a good sear; use a drop of water as a test—if it sizzles and dances, the pan is ready. Additionally, sear the scallops in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding, which can lower the pan's temperature.

Another common issue is overcooking the scallops. Keep an eye on them while they’re in the skillet; they cook quickly and will turn opaque when done. Typically, a 2-3 minute sear on each side should be perfect, but monitor for a firm texture. If they’re chewy, they might have been left in the pan too long.

Make-Ahead Strategies

While scallops are best enjoyed fresh, you can certainly prepare components in advance. Cook the bacon ahead of time and store it in the fridge; it can simply be reheated shortly before mixing it with the freshly seared scallops. Additionally, prepping the scallops by drying and seasoning them ahead of time will save you stress during meal prep, allowing for a quick and stress-free cooking session.

Pairing side dishes like risotto or a simple salad can also be done a few hours in advance to streamline your serving process. Just remember: reheat any previously cooked components gently to maintain the right textures and flavors, ensuring that your dinner remains as delightful as when it was first made.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen scallops?

Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking for a perfect sear.

→ What type of pan is best for searing scallops?

A cast-iron skillet or stainless steel pan works best to achieve a great sear.

→ What's the ideal cooking time for scallops?

Sear them for about 2-3 minutes per side on high heat for the best results.

→ Can I add other seasonings?

Absolutely! A touch of garlic or fresh herbs like thyme can enhance the flavor without overpowering the scallops.