Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Scallops: an effortless appetizer to serve for any occasion

Bacon wrapped scallops are a wildly popular party appetizer, but with one simple trick, they become easier to make and healthier to eat. What's the secret? Using your air fryer! Air fryer bacon-wrapped scallops are just as delicious as the regular recipe, with the same tender, succulent scallops wrapped in salty, crisp bacon.

Because they're cooked in an air fryer and thus use less oil, this simple recipe is healthier than classic bacon wrapped scallops. The best part? They take almost no time to make. Air fryer bacon wrapped scallops are a perfect quick appetizer you can throw together in about 20 minutes, making them an ideal dish to make when you're short on time.

Bacon Wrapped Scallops Ingredients

You don't need many ingredients to make this tasty, elegant appetizer, just good quality bacon, scallops, a dash of pepper, and toothpicks to fix the bacon to the scallops. The key to making perfect bacon wrapped scallops is to cook the bacon about halfway before wrapping the pieces around the scallops. This way, you'll get beautifully crispy bacon without overcooking the scallops.

How to Make Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Scallops

It's easy to make bacon wrapped scallops in an air fryer. Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F. Cook the bacon for 3 minutes, flipping it halfway through cooking, then take it out of the air fryer and set it to the side. Using a paper towel, pat the scallops dry, then wrap a piece of bacon around each scallop and spear it with a toothpick to keep it secure. Give the scallops a light spray with some cooking spray then season them generously with freshly ground black pepper.

Finally, lay the scallops in a single layer in your air fryer. Cook them in batches for about 8 minutes. The scallops should turn opaque but still be tender while the bacon should be beautifully crisped up. Don't forget to turn them halfway through! Once they're done cooking, serve the scallops immediately.

Expert Tips for Making Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Scallops

– When frying the scallops, work in batches. This way, they'll all cook evenly.

– No fresh scallops? No problem. You can air fry frozen scallops. You'll just need to cook them a few minutes longer.

– For a tasty variation, try using smoked bacon or maple-glazed bacon to wrap your scallops.

What to Serve with Bacon Wrapped Scallops

Bacon-wrapped scallops can be served on their own as an appetizer at parties or pair them with a few sides to turn this tasty dish into a main meal. They're great with pasta, rice, and potatoes with a side of roasted vegetables.

How to Store Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Scallops

Keep leftover bacon-wrapped scallops in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within 2 days. To reheat them, bake them at 250°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

How to Make Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Scallops

Preheat your air fryer for 3 minutes at 400°F.

Lay the bacon in the air fryer and cook for 90 seconds, then turn and cook for another 90 seconds. Set on a paper towel to cool.

Pat the scallops dry. Wrap each scallop with a piece of bacon and spear with a toothpick to secure the bacon in place.

Spray the scallops with cooking spray and season with black pepper.

Lay the scallops in a single layer in the air fryer. Cook for 4 minutes, flip, then cook for another 4 minutes. Serve immediately.

Notes

Before wrapping the scallops with bacon, make sure to remove any side muscles attached to them.

Don't overcook the scallops.