The first time I tried making bacon-wrapped scallops on the stovetop, I nearly set off my smoke alarm — soggy bacon, overcooked scallops, and a kitchen that smelled like burnt oil for days. When I switched to my air fryer, everything changed. After testing this recipe three different ways, I found the sweet spot: perfectly crisp bacon wrapped around tender, buttery scallops that melt in your mouth. This is the kind of appetizer that disappears before you even sit down to dinner.
Why This Air Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Scallops Recipe Works
Scallops are delicate, and bacon takes longer to cook — so the trick is science and timing. Par-cooking the bacon for 3 minutes at 400°F (204°C) jump-starts the crisping process. Then, wrapping it around the scallops and air frying for 10 minutes total (turning once) cooks both evenly. The circulating heat of the air fryer locks in moisture while rendering the bacon perfectly. The result? Crispy edges, buttery centers, and that irresistible sweet-salty flavor I fell in love with after my first test batch.
Air Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Scallops
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Tongs
- toothpicks
- Basting brush
Ingredients
- 16 large sea scallops thawed and patted dry
- 8 slices thin-cut bacon halved
- ¼ cup barbecue sauce thin-style, like Williamson Bros.
- ½ tsp smoked paprika optional
- Toothpicks for securing
Instructions
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F (204°C) for 3 minutes.
- Par-cook bacon: Place halved bacon slices in the air fryer basket and cook for 3 minutes until slightly browned but still pliable.
- Wrap scallops: Pat scallops dry, then wrap each one with a half slice of bacon. Secure with a toothpick.
- Arrange and season: Place scallops in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Lightly brush each with barbecue sauce.
- Air fry: Cook for 5 minutes, then turn scallops carefully and baste again. Continue for 5 more minutes, or until scallops reach 125°F (52°C) internally and bacon is crisp.
- Serve immediately: Brush with any remaining sauce and sprinkle with smoked paprika for a final touch.
Notes
- Use thin-cut bacon for best results; thick bacon won’t crisp evenly.
- Avoid overcooking — scallops should be tender and slightly translucent in the center.
- Reheat leftovers in air fryer for 2–3 minutes at 400°F; do not microwave.
- Try sweet variations with maple syrup + brown sugar, or spicy with sriracha mayo.
Nutrition
For more air fryer favorites, check out my Air Fryer Fried Oreos, Air Fryer Lemon Bars, or Air Fryer Baked Apples. Each one brings that same crisp, golden perfection.