0 Shares

There’s something incredibly satisfying about transforming a few simple ingredients into something spectacular, and that’s exactly what this Scallops with Bacon and White Wine Sauce offers. Picture yourself in the kitchen as the rich aroma of sizzling bacon fills the air, mingling with buttery scallops and hints of lemon. This dish isn’t just a treat; it’s a celebration of flavors, marrying the sweetness of perfectly seared scallops with the savory elements of crispy bacon and a tantalizing white wine sauce.

Whether you’re impressing friends at a dinner party or indulging in a weeknight culinary adventure, this recipe is your ticket to gourmet dining at home. Easy to whip up, yet elegant enough to wow, you’ll find that every bite brings a symphony of savory and citrusy notes that dance across your palate. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll elevate your seafood game and bring a touch of restaurant flair to your table. Let’s dive into this delectable recipe that promises satisfaction and a delightful culinary experience!

Why choose Scallops with Bacon and White Wine Sauce?

Decadence, This dish takes simple ingredients and transforms them into a gourmet masterpiece, perfect for any occasion.
Simplicity, It boasts an easy-to-follow recipe and minimal prep time, so you can enjoy gourmet flavors without the stress.
Flavor Explosion, The savory smokiness of bacon combined with citrusy white wine elevates the sweetness of the scallops for a balanced taste.
Versatility, Perfect as a main dish or appetizer, it can fit any dining scenario from casual family dinners to elegant parties.
Nutritious Delight, High in protein and low in carbs, it’s a meal that satisfies your cravings while keeping health in mind.
Try serving it with a side of sautéed greens to complement those rich flavors!

Scallops with Bacon and White Wine Sauce Ingredients

For the Sauce

Thick-cut Bacon – Adds smokiness and a savory depth to the sauce. Substitute with turkey bacon for a lighter option.
Unsalted Butter – Brings richness to the sauce. Dividing it into portions helps control its melting and flavor release.
Shallots – Provide a mild onion flavor. Yellow onions can be used in place for a similar taste.
Garlic – Adds aromatic depth; fresh minced garlic is recommended for the best flavor.
Red Pepper Flakes – Introduces a kick; optional depending on desired spice level for heat.

For the Scallops

Scallops – The star ingredient, providing a mild sweetness and buttery texture. Look for dry sea scallops to avoid added water weight.
Olive Oil – Used for searing the scallops to perfection. Can be replaced with grapeseed oil for a more neutral flavor.
Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor; can be adjusted for taste throughout the cooking process.
Coarse Black Pepper – Adds warmth; can substitute with white pepper for a milder spice.

For the Brightness

White Wine (e.g., Pinot Grigio) – Deglazes the pan and enriches the sauce, bringing out the best in the scallops’ sweetness. Avoid cooking wine for better flavor.
Fresh Lemon Juice – Brightens the dish; adjust to taste for acidity preference and balance.
Lemon Zest – Enhances lemon flavor with fresh citrus oils, giving the dish a zesty aroma.

For Garnishing

Fresh Parsley – Adds a touch of color and freshness to the presentation.
Fresh Basil – Complements the flavors beautifully, enhancing the dish’s overall taste and appeal.

With these ingredients, you’ll create a stunning Scallops with Bacon and White Wine Sauce that’s sure to impress!

How to Make Scallops with Bacon and White Wine Sauce

Cook the Bacon: Heat a cast iron skillet over medium heat and add the thick-cut bacon. Cook until browned and crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Once done, remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the drippings for flavor.
Sear the Scallops: Clean the skillet, ensuring it’s very hot. Drizzle a little olive oil and carefully place the scallops in the skillet. Sear for 1-2 minutes per side until they are golden brown. Remove the scallops and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce: Lower the skillet heat to medium (allow it to cool for about 10 minutes). Add unsalted butter and shallots (with a pinch of salt), cooking until soft, around 5 minutes.
Add Aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and crispy bacon bits. Cook until the garlic is fragrant, about 30 seconds, to infuse the sauce with flavor.
Deglaze and Simmer: Pour in the fresh lemon juice, zest, and white wine. Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce the heat to a simmer for approximately 5 minutes, thickening the sauce slightly.
Finish the Sauce: Stir in the remaining butter, chopped basil, and parsley. Return the seared scallops back into the skillet and warm them gently before serving.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish with additional parsley and basil, serving the dish immediately for a fresh presentation.

Optional: Pair with a side of garlic bread for extra indulgence!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Scallops with Bacon and White Wine Sauce are a fantastic dish to meal prep for those busy weeknights! You can prepare the bacon and sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Cook the bacon until crispy, then let it cool and refrigerate in an airtight container. For the sauce, follow the first three steps—sautéing shallots and garlic in butter—and store it in the fridge as well. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the sauce gently on the stove, then sear the scallops fresh for that perfect golden crust. This way, you’ll enjoy a gourmet dish with minimal effort, just as delicious as if you made it all in one go!

What to Serve with Scallops with Bacon and White Wine Sauce?

Creating the perfect meal experience goes beyond just your main dish; it’s about harmonizing flavors and textures across the plate.

Garlic Bread: The warm, crusty texture of garlic bread allows you to soak up that luscious sauce, making every last bite delightful.
Sautéed Greens: A side of vibrant sautéed spinach or kale not only provides a fresh element but also complements the richness of the scallops beautifully.
Creamy Risotto: The creamy texture of arborio rice infused with parmesan creates a comforting base to accentuate the savory flavors of the scallops.
Roasted Asparagus: The bright, slightly sweet flavor of roasted asparagus pairs well with the bacon and wine sauce, enhancing both color and taste.
Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with a light vinaigrette adds a crisp, cool contrast that balances the richness of the main dish.
Chardonnay: A chilled glass of oaked Chardonnay echoes the wine in the sauce and brings out the dish’s buttery notes, making for a sophisticated pairing.

Scallops with Bacon and White Wine Sauce Variations

Feel free to explore the limitless possibilities of flavors and textures by customizing your scallop dish!

Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end of cooking for a luscious, richer sauce.
Embrace the extra decadence that creamy sauces bring; it melds beautifully with the flavors of wine and butter.
Citrus Burst: Replace lemon juice with fresh orange juice for a zesty sweetness that brightens the dish.
This twist adds a refreshing flair, creating an inviting contrast to the smoky bacon’s depth.
Herb Swaps: Experiment with fresh dill or tarragon instead of basil for a unique aromatic profile.
Each herb offers its own personality, enhancing the seafood with distinct freshness and vibrancy.
Spice It Up: Add diced jalapeños or more red pepper flakes for a fiery kick to your sauce.
Let the heat dance on your palate, elevating the dish to a spicy adventure for those who enjoy a bit of thrill!
Smoky Flavor: Use smoked paprika in place of black pepper to infuse a warm, smoky note into the dish.
This gives the sauce a delightful twist reminiscent of outdoor grilling, perfectly complementing the lobster’s richness.
Veggie Boost: Fold in sautéed spinach or cherry tomatoes for added color and nutrition.
Not only do they introduce freshness, but they also offer an appealing visual contrast to the dish’s luxurious hues.
Different Proteins: Substitute scallops with shrimp or lobster for a different seafood experience.
Each option adds its unique texture and flavor profile while maintaining the elegant essence of your sauce.
Nutty Flavor: Top with toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for an unexpected crunch.
This variation adds a delightful texture contrast that pairs beautifully with the succulent scallops and smooth sauce.

How to Store and Freeze Scallops with Bacon and White Wine Sauce

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This keeps the scallops fresh, but enjoy them as soon as possible for optimal taste.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the scallops without the sauce in a sealed container. They can last up to 3 months but may lose texture when thawed.

Reheating: Gently reheat scallops on the stovetop over low heat to maintain their delicate texture. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them rubbery.

Sauce Storage: The bacon and white wine sauce can be stored separately in the fridge for 2 days, or frozen for up to 3 months. Just reheat before serving with the scallops.

Tips for the Best Scallops with Bacon and White Wine Sauce

Perfect Searing: Ensure the skillet is hot before searing scallops; an overheated pan prevents sticking and creates a caramelized crust.
Avoid Overcrowding: Cook scallops in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the pan can lower the temperature and yield unevenly cooked scallops.
Quality Ingredients: Use dry, high-quality white wine for the sauce to enhance the dish’s flavor. Avoid using cooking wine, as it lacks depth.
Butter Control: Divide butter into portions to better manage its melting rate. This helps achieve the desired sauce consistency without overwhelming richness.
Fresh is Best: Always opt for fresh garlic and herbs for a more vibrant flavor in your Scallops with Bacon and White Wine Sauce.

Scallops with Bacon and White Wine Sauce Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select scallops?
Absolutely! When choosing scallops, look for dry sea scallops that have a fresh, sweet smell and a glossy appearance. Avoid those that feel slimy or have a strong fishy odor. Dry scallops are preferable as they are untreated, which means you will avoid added water weight that can affect searing.

How should I store leftovers of Scallops with Bacon and White Wine Sauce?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain flavor and quality, I recommend consuming them as soon as possible. Gently reheat the scallops on a skillet over low heat for the best results.

Can I freeze Scallops with Bacon and White Wine Sauce?
Yes, you can! To freeze, it’s best to separate the scallops from the sauce. Place the scallops in a sealed container or freezer bag, ensuring as much air is removed as possible, and they will keep well for up to 3 months. For the sauce, store it in a separate container. To reheat, thaw the scallops overnight in the fridge and gently warm them on the stovetop to maintain their texture.

What if my scallops are rubbery after cooking?
Very! If your scallops turn out rubbery, it was likely due to overcooking or insufficient searing. Keep the cooking time short—1 to 2 minutes per side is usually sufficient, depending on their size. Always ensure your skillet is preheated and not overcrowded, as this can lower the pan’s temperature and lead to uneven results.

Can I adapt this recipe for dietary restrictions?
Definitely! If you are concerned about gluten or dairy, consider using a gluten-free chicken broth instead of white wine or omit the butter altogether for a lighter sauce. For those with shellfish allergies, you can substitute scallops with chicken breast or firm vegetables like cauliflower for a delightful, yet different dish.

How long can I keep the bacon and white wine sauce in the fridge?
The bacon and white wine sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If you wish to keep it for a longer duration, you can freeze the sauce for up to 3 months. Just reheat it gently before mixing it with your freshly cooked scallops for maximum flavor.