Air Fryer Frozen Bacon Wrapped Scallops: Crispy & Delicious!

Craving a restaurant-quality appetizer with zero effort? These air fryer frozen Bacon Wrapped Scallops are the perfect solution! Cooked straight from frozen, the crispy, salty bacon pairs beautifully with the tender, juicy scallops inside. Whether you’re hosting a party or just treating yourself, this quick and easy air fryer recipe delivers gourmet flavor in minutes.

Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Frozen Bacon Wrapped Scallops

• So easy to make, no defrosting needed: Just pop them straight from the freezer into the air fryer—no thawing, no prep. This is the ultimate shortcut for a gourmet-style appetizer. It’s perfect when you need something quick but still impressive. Less time in the kitchen means more time enjoying your food!

• Perfectly crispy bacon every time: The air fryer does all the magic here. It crisps up the bacon beautifully while keeping the scallops juicy. No greasy mess or undercooked spots—just evenly cooked bites of deliciousness. Every piece comes out looking like a fancy appetizer from a high-end restaurant.

• Tender, juicy scallops with bold flavor: The contrast between the salty, smoky bacon and the delicate sweetness of scallops is unbeatable. Each bite is packed with flavor and a satisfying texture combo. It’s a great way to enjoy seafood without any complicated cooking. Even picky eaters will be reaching for more!

• Perfect for entertaining: These scallops look stunning on a platter. Your guests will never guess they came from the freezer! Serve them at your next party or holiday gathering for an easy win. You’ll get all the compliments with almost no work.

• Great for low-carb and keto diets: With just bacon and scallops, this recipe is naturally low in carbs. It fits easily into keto or gluten-free meal plans. You get a tasty, high-protein snack without the guilt. And it feels totally indulgent without breaking your diet!

Ingredients For Air Fryer Frozen Bacon Wrapped Scallops

• Frozen bacon wrapped scallops – The star of the show! These come pre-wrapped and ready to go, usually found in the freezer section. Trader Joe’s brand was used in the video, but any brand works just as well.

For the exact measurements of the ingredients, see the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article.

Kitchen Tools You Need To Make Air Fryer Frozen Bacon Wrapped Scallops

• Air fryer – This is what makes the bacon crispy and the scallops perfectly tender without any oil or mess.
• Instant-read thermometer (optional) – Helpful to check if the scallops have reached a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
• Tongs or spatula – Makes it easy to remove the hot scallops from the air fryer basket.

How To Make Air Fryer Frozen Bacon Wrapped Scallops

• Start by removing the scallops from their packaging—no need to thaw them first.
• Place the frozen bacon wrapped scallops in a single layer in the air fryer basket, spacing them out so they cook evenly.
• Set your air fryer to 400°F and cook for 12 minutes.
• After cooking, check one scallop by inserting a thermometer to make sure it’s at least 165°F inside.
• If they’re not fully done, just pop them back in for another minute or two.
• Once they’re cooked through, use tongs to carefully take them out and serve immediately.
• Enjoy these crispy, juicy bites as an easy appetizer or party snack!

Serving Suggestions

• Arrange the bacon wrapped scallops on a small serving tray with cocktail picks for easy grabbing. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or a squeeze of lemon for a pop of color and brightness.
• Serve a few scallops on a small plate over a bed of fresh arugula and burrata salad or crunchy kale apple salad with a drizzle of balsamic glaze. It looks elegant and tastes amazing.
• Pair with your favorite sauce like tzatziki sauce, homemade sriracha mayo, or spicy sweet garlic chili sauce for an extra burst of flavor. These sauces complement the salty bacon and sweet scallops perfectly.
• Create a mini seafood platter with shrimp cocktail, crispy crab cakes, and these bacon wrapped scallops. Great for a holiday spread or special dinner night.
• They’re so tasty you can just pop them on a plate and enjoy as-is. No frills needed!

Tips For Success

• No need to defrost—straight from the freezer is best: Cooking the scallops directly from frozen helps them cook evenly. Thawing them first can make the bacon soggy or the scallops overcooked. The air fryer handles everything beautifully from frozen. So skip the defrost and go straight to the basket!

• Use a single layer in the air fryer basket: Spacing is key to getting crispy bacon and even cooking. If scallops are touching or piled up, they won’t cook properly. Always arrange them in one layer with space around each piece. For large batches, cook in multiple rounds.

• Don’t skip the internal temp check: Scallops can be different sizes and air fryers cook differently. Use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness. The center of a scallop should reach at least 165°F. If it’s not there yet, cook another 1–2 minutes.

• Preheating is not necessary: This recipe skips the preheat step to keep things super simple. Place the scallops into a cold air fryer and start cooking. It heats up as it cooks and works perfectly every time. One less step to worry about!

• Watch the bacon toward the end: The bacon crisps up fast, especially if the air fryer is already warm from a previous batch. Check them in the last couple of minutes so they don’t get too dark. You’re aiming for golden brown and crispy—not burnt.

• Let them rest for a minute before serving: After cooking, let the scallops rest for about a minute. This keeps the juices inside and the scallops nice and tender. Plus, it makes them easier to handle. A quick pause makes a big difference!

Variations And Substitutions

• Use different brands or sizes of scallops: Some frozen bacon wrapped scallops are larger or smaller depending on the brand. If yours are on the smaller side, check them a minute or two early to avoid overcooking. For larger ones, you may need to add an extra minute or two. Just keep an eye on the bacon and check the internal temp.

• Try flavored bacon for a twist: If you’re making your own bacon wrapped scallops or find pre-wrapped ones with flavored bacon, go for it! Maple bacon adds a sweet-savory twist, while peppered bacon brings a little spice. It’s an easy way to change up the flavor without adding extra steps. Just be sure to watch the sugar content—sweeter bacon can brown faster in the air fryer.

• Add a glaze or sauce after cooking: Once the scallops come out of the air fryer, brush them with a little honey glaze, teriyaki sauce, or garlic butter. It adds a burst of extra flavor and a beautiful glossy finish. You can even sprinkle with herbs like parsley or a squeeze of lemon for freshness. Just make sure to add sauces after air frying to avoid burning.

• Make your own bacon wrapped scallops from scratch: If you can’t find the frozen kind, you can totally make them yourself! Just wrap raw scallops in half-slices of bacon, secure with a toothpick, and cook the same way. You might need to partially cook the bacon before wrapping to ensure it crisps up properly. It’s a little more work, but still very air fryer friendly.

• Use turkey bacon for a lighter option: Watching your fat intake? Try using turkey bacon instead of regular pork bacon. It won’t get quite as crispy, but it still gives you that savory bite. This is a great option if you’re cutting calories or avoiding pork. Just make sure the internal temp of the scallops still reaches 165°F.

• Add seasoning before or after cooking: While frozen bacon wrapped scallops are usually pre-seasoned, you can always sprinkle on a little garlic powder, smoked paprika, or black pepper for an extra flavor boost. If seasoning before cooking, do it lightly since the bacon already adds salt. After cooking, a touch of finishing salt or a drizzle of sauce can take them over the top.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Let the scallops cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Avoid stacking them tightly so they don’t get soggy or lose their shape. You can also place a paper towel in the container to absorb any excess moisture.

• Reheating in the air fryer: This is the best method for keeping them crispy. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (optional), then place the scallops in a single layer. Heat for 3–4 minutes, or until warmed through and bacon is crispy again.

• Reheating in the microwave: If you’re short on time, you can microwave them, but they won’t be as crispy. Place the scallops on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 20-second increments until warm.

• Freezing leftovers: It’s not ideal, but if needed, you can freeze cooked scallops. Place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag with parchment paper between layers. Freeze for up to 1 month, and reheat directly in the air fryer for best texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cook bacon wrapped scallops in the air fryer without thawing them first?

Yes! This recipe is designed specifically for frozen bacon wrapped scallops. There’s no need to thaw them in advance. Just take them straight from the freezer and place them into the air fryer. Cooking them frozen helps the bacon crisp up without overcooking the scallops.

How long do I cook frozen bacon wrapped scallops in the air fryer?

The scallops cook perfectly in about 12 minutes at 400°F. Make sure to place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Every air fryer is a little different, so check for doneness and adjust the cook time slightly if needed. If the internal temperature isn’t 165°F yet, air fry for an extra 1–2 minutes.

How do I know when the scallops are done?

The best way to tell is by using an instant-read thermometer. Insert it into the center of one of the scallops and make sure it reaches 165°F. The bacon should also be browned and crispy. If the scallops look undercooked or feel rubbery, add a minute or two in the air fryer.

Can I use fresh scallops instead of frozen ones?

You can! If you’re wrapping your own fresh scallops in bacon, you may want to partially cook the bacon first so it crisps up by the time the scallops are done. Follow a similar air fryer temperature and time, but start checking for doneness around the 10-minute mark. Watch closely to avoid overcooking the scallops.

What should I serve with bacon wrapped scallops?

They make a great appetizer on their own or as part of a seafood spread. You can serve them with dipping sauces like garlic aioli, sweet chili, or lemon butter. For a full meal, pair with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or a simple pasta. They also look beautiful on a party platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing.

Can I make these ahead of time?

These are best enjoyed fresh, but you can cook them ahead and reheat in the air fryer. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, pop them in the air fryer for a few minutes at 375°F until heated through and crispy again. Just be sure not to overcook them during reheating.

Are bacon wrapped scallops keto-friendly?

Yes! This dish is naturally low in carbs, making it perfect for a keto or low-carb diet. There’s no breading, sugar, or starch—just protein-packed scallops and bacon. If you’re watching sodium or fat, consider using turkey bacon or a reduced-sodium version.

Can I air fry a large batch at once?

It’s better to cook them in smaller batches to ensure even cooking. Overcrowding the air fryer can lead to soggy bacon and undercooked scallops. If you need to make a lot, just keep the cooked ones warm in the oven at a low temp while the next batch cooks. It’s worth the extra step to get that perfect crispiness.

Other Easy Bacon Recipes

Creamy Bacon Green Pea – This easy side dish combines tender green peas with crispy bacon and a rich, creamy sauce for a comforting burst of flavor in every bite.

Low Carb Bacon Cheese Breadsticks – Cheesy, crispy, and loaded with savory bacon, these low carb breadsticks are the perfect keto-friendly snack or appetizer.

Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Asparagus Spears – Fresh asparagus wrapped in crispy bacon and cooked to perfection in the air fryer makes a deliciously easy low-carb appetizer or side.

Cream Cheese Stuffed Bacon Jalapeño Bites – These spicy jalapeño halves are filled with creamy cheese and wrapped in bacon for a crowd-pleasing keto appetizer.

Other Easy Scallops Recipes

Shiitake Mushroom Scallop Stir Fry with Baby Bok Choy – Tender scallops stir-fried with earthy shiitake mushrooms and crisp bok choy make for a healthy and flavorful Asian-inspired dish.

Seared Bay Scallops on the Stovetop – These pan-seared bay scallops are golden on the outside, tender inside, and ready in just minutes for an elegant yet easy seafood dinner.

Stir-Fried Scallops with Green Peas – Quick and colorful, this stir-fry brings together juicy scallops and sweet green peas in a savory garlic sauce for a fast and fresh meal.

More Air Fryer Recipes

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• Tender Air Fried Beef Short Ribs
• Roasted Poblano Peppers in the Air Fryer