Bacon‑wrapped seafood has long been a staple of American bar‑food and cocktail‑hour menus, combining the indulgent flavor of pork with the delicate texture of shellfish. The bite‑size presentation makes it perfect for sharing at gatherings, reflecting the U.S. tradition of easy, handheld appetizers.

In the South, chefs often add a touch of hot sauce or Cajun seasoning, while West Coast versions may feature a maple glaze on the bacon. Some New England cooks substitute Canadian bacon for a leaner profile, but the core technique of pre‑rendering bacon and broiling remains consistent.

They are typically presented on a platter with toothpicks for easy picking, garnished with fresh herbs like chives or parsley, and sometimes accompanied by a citrus‑based dipping sauce. The dish is served hot or warm, right after broiling.

These bite‑size scallops are popular at holiday parties, New Year’s Eve gatherings, cocktail receptions, and summer barbecues where guests enjoy elegant yet simple finger foods.

Authentic ingredients include dry‑packed sea scallops, smoked bacon, and a light seasoning of salt, pepper, and cayenne. Acceptable substitutes are prosciutto or pancetta for bacon, and bay scallops for a smaller bite, though cooking times will need adjustment.

Common errors include overcooking the scallops, using bacon that is too thick or not pre‑rendered, and failing to secure the wrap, which can cause the bacon to unravel. Follow the microwave pre‑render step and keep the broiling time short to avoid rubbery scallops.

Microwaving quickly renders fat while keeping the bacon flexible enough to wrap around the scallop. Fully cooking the bacon first would make it too rigid and cause it to crack, whereas the microwave method gives a head start without over‑cooking.

Yes. You can pre‑render the bacon and wrap the seasoned scallops, then cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours. Keep them on a rack in a shallow pan to prevent moisture buildup, and broil them just before serving.

The scallops should be opaque pink and slightly firm to the touch, while the bacon should be browned and crisp around the edges but still flexible enough to hold the wrap. No raw, translucent scallop flesh should remain.

The YouTube channel America's Test Kitchen specializes in scientifically tested recipes, detailed technique tutorials, and equipment reviews, delivering reliable, step‑by‑step cooking guidance for home cooks.

America's Test Kitchen emphasizes precise timing, controlled cooking methods (like pre‑rendering bacon in the microwave), and thorough testing to ensure consistent results, whereas many other channels rely on visual cues alone.