These Air Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Scallops take that classic pairing to the next level with a hint of Old Bay seasoning and a touch of maple syrup for the perfect balance of savory and sweet. Plus, thanks to the air fryer, you get perfectly cooked scallops with crisp bacon in just minutes—no need for deep frying or excessive cleanup!
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If you’ve never made bacon-wrapped scallops in the air fryer, you’re in for a treat! It cooks them quickly and evenly, giving you tender scallops with perfectly crisp bacon. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, this dish brings restaurant-quality seafood to your table with ease!
The air fryer isn’t just great for scallops—you can also make tender salmon bites coated in a flavorful honey garlic sauce or crispy crab bites made with seasoned imitation crab and breadcrumbs. Both cook up quickly and make an easy, delicious appetizer or snack!
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy – Ready in under 25 minutes with minimal prep, making it perfect for busy nights or last-minute appetizers.
- Perfect texture – The air fryer ensures crispy bacon while keeping the scallops tender and juicy.
- Delicious balance of flavors – Old Bay seasoning adds a little spice, while maple syrup brings a touch of sweetness.
- Great for any occasion – Whether it’s a fancy dinner, a holiday gathering, or a simple treat, these scallops always impress.
- Simple ingredients, big flavor – Just six ingredients come together for a dish that tastes like it came from a restaurant.
- Healthier than frying – No deep frying means less grease and an easier cleanup without sacrificing flavor. If you’re looking for another light yet crispy option, these Air Fryer Chicken Wings are a great alternative to traditional fried wings.
Ingredients
Gather the ingredients below to make these delicious air fryer scallops!
- Sea Scallops: Large scallops work best for even cooking.
- Bacon: Thin-cut bacon wraps best and crisps up nicely.
- Olive Oil: Helps season the scallops.
- Old Bay Seasoning: Adds a flavorful boost.
- Salt & Black Pepper: Enhances the natural flavors.
- Maple Syrup: A touch of sweetness to complement the bacon.
See recipe card for full information on ingredients and quantities.
Substitutions & Variations
- Bacon alternatives – If you prefer a lighter option, try using turkey bacon or prosciutto. Just keep in mind that turkey bacon is leaner and may need less cooking time, while prosciutto crisps up quickly.
- Seasoning swaps – No Old Bay? Try garlic powder, smoked paprika, or Cajun seasoning for a different flavor profile. A sprinkle of lemon zest also adds a fresh, citrusy twist.
- Sweetener options – Instead of maple syrup, you can use honey, brown sugar, or a balsamic glaze to achieve a similar sweet-savory contrast.
- Seafood variations – Not a fan of scallops? This method works well with shrimp or even chunks of firm fish like salmon. Adjust the cooking time as needed, or try these Air Fryer Salmon Bites for another quick and flavorful seafood option.
- Spicy kick – If you like heat, add a dash of cayenne pepper to the seasoning or drizzle with hot honey before serving.
- Dipping sauce ideas – Serve with garlic butter, lemon aioli, spicy sriracha mayo, or a tangy mustard sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
How to Make Bacon Wrapped Scallops in the Air Fryer
Once you've gathered all your ingredients, cook the bacon as directed and follow the steps below for this easy seafood appetizer.
- Step 1: Dry scallops with paper towels. Season them with olive oil, old bay seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Step 2: Wrap each piece of bacon around one of the scallops. Seal with a toothpick.
- Step 3: Brush scallops with maple syrup.
- Step 4: Place scallops into your air fryer basket at 350°F for 11-13 minutes. Cook just until bacon is crisp and scallop is cooked.
Helpful Tips
- Use large sea scallops – Smaller scallops cook too quickly and may become overdone before the bacon crisps up.
- Pat scallops dry – Removing excess moisture helps them sear properly and prevents steaming in the air fryer.
- Partially cook the bacon first – Bacon needs a head start to crisp up without overcooking the scallops. Cook it for 3-4 minutes before wrapping.
- Secure with toothpicks – This keeps the bacon in place while cooking. Just remember to remove them before eating!
- Cook in a single layer – Overcrowding the air fryer basket can lead to uneven cooking. Work in batches if needed, and consider using an air fryer liner to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Check for doneness – Scallops should be opaque and firm but not rubbery, and the bacon should be crisp.
- Adjust cooking time based on scallop size – Larger scallops may need an extra minute or two, while smaller ones cook faster.
- Flip halfway if needed – If your air fryer doesn’t circulate heat evenly, flip the scallops halfway through cooking for even crispiness.
Recipe FAQs
Yes, but you’ll need to thaw them completely before cooking. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture for the best texture.
Bacon takes longer to crisp than scallops cook, so it’s important to partially cook the bacon first before wrapping it around the scallops.
Scallops should be opaque, firm, and slightly springy when pressed. For the best texture, cook them to an internal temperature of 125-130°F for a tender bite or 130-140°F for a firmer texture.
Overcooking can make them rubbery, so check them a minute early if needed. Using a digital meat thermometer ensures accuracy and prevents overcooking.
Yes! Bake them at 400°F for about 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through. You can also broil them for the last couple of minutes to crisp up the bacon.
Yes! You can wrap the scallops in bacon and refrigerate them for a few hours before cooking. Brush with maple syrup just before air frying for the best caramelization.
Storage & Freezing Instructions
Storage Instructions
Store leftover bacon-wrapped scallops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep them from getting soggy, place them on a paper towel before sealing the container.
To reheat, use the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes until warmed through. This helps keep the bacon crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the scallops rubbery.
Freezing Instructions
For best results, freeze the scallops before cooking by wrapping them in bacon, securing with a toothpick, and placing them in a single layer in the freezer. Once solid, transfer to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 2 months.
Cook straight from frozen at 350°F for 15-17 minutes, brushing with maple syrup halfway through.
More Air Fryer Seafood Recipes You'll Love
Looking for other easy air fryer seafood recipes like this? Try these:
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Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Scallops
Ingredients
- 8 slices bacon
- 8 large sea scallops
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon old bay seasoning
- salt and black pepper
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
Instructions
- Place bacon in the air fryer basket at 350°F for 3-4 minutes. Bacon should not be crisp.
- Remove bacon from the air fryer.
- Dry scallops with paper towels. Season them with olive oil, old bay seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Wrap each piece of bacon around one of the scallops. Seal with a toothpick.
- Brush scallops with maple syrup.
- Place scallops into your air fryer basket at 350°F for 11-13 minutes. Cook just until bacon is crisp and scallop is cooked.
Notes
- Use large sea scallops – Smaller scallops cook too quickly and may become overdone before the bacon crisps up.
- Pat scallops dry – Removing excess moisture helps them sear properly and prevents steaming in the air fryer.
- Partially cook the bacon first – Bacon needs a head start to crisp up without overcooking the scallops. Cook it for 3-4 minutes before wrapping.
- Secure with toothpicks – This keeps the bacon in place while cooking. Just remember to remove them before serving!
- Cook in a single layer – Overcrowding the air fryer basket can lead to uneven cooking. Work in batches if needed.
- Check for doneness – Scallops should be opaque and firm but not rubbery, and the bacon should be crisp.
- Adjust cooking time based on scallop size – Larger scallops may need an extra minute or two, while smaller ones cook faster.
- Flip halfway if needed – If your air fryer doesn’t circulate heat evenly, flip the scallops halfway through cooking for even crispiness.
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