Print

Savory Bacon-Wrapped Seared Scallops Recipe with Easy Chipotle Lime Crema

bacon-wrapped seared scallops - featured image

This recipe features tender sea scallops wrapped in smoky bacon and seared to golden perfection, served with a creamy, zesty chipotle lime crema. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for entertaining or a comforting seafood appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 large sea scallops, patted dry
  • 12 slices thick-cut bacon (Applewood-smoked recommended)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to season
  • ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt as a substitute)
  • 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon lime zest
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced
  • Salt to taste
  • Optional garnishes: fresh cilantro leaves, extra lime wedges

Instructions

  1. Preheat skillet over medium-high heat. Pat scallops dry with paper towels. Season each scallop lightly with salt and pepper. Wrap each scallop tightly with one slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick. (About 10 minutes)
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine sour cream, minced chipotle pepper, lime juice, lime zest, and garlic. Stir until smooth. Season with salt to taste. Refrigerate while cooking scallops. (About 5 minutes)
  3. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil to hot skillet. Place scallops seam side down to seal bacon. Cook without moving for about 3 minutes until golden crust forms. Flip gently and cook another 3-4 minutes until bacon crisps and scallops are opaque but tender inside. (6-7 minutes total cook time)
  4. Transfer scallops to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease. Let rest 1-2 minutes. Remove toothpicks before plating.
  5. Serve scallops warm with a dollop or side of chipotle lime crema. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges if desired.

Notes

Pat scallops very dry for best sear. Do not overcrowd pan; cook in batches if needed. Use medium-high heat to avoid burning bacon before scallops cook. Let scallops rest briefly after cooking. Adjust chipotle pepper amount for desired spice level. Crema tastes better if chilled for 30 minutes or more.

Nutrition

Keywords: bacon wrapped scallops, seared scallops, chipotle lime crema, seafood appetizer, easy scallops recipe, bacon appetizer