When it comes to appetizers, it’s hard to beat the combination of scallops and bacon. Trader Joe’s has taken this classic pairing and made it easier than ever to enjoy at home with their Scallops Wrapped in Uncured Bacon. These bite-sized snacks are perfect for parties, entertaining, or even as a simple treat to enjoy at home. With tender scallops wrapped in savory, uncured bacon, this appetizer delivers a satisfying mix of textures and flavors that’s both indulgent and elegant.
At $6.99 for a 6.35-ounce box, Trader Joe’s Scallops Wrapped in Uncured Bacon offer a convenient and delicious way to elevate your appetizer game without spending hours in the kitchen.
Product Description
Trader Joe’s Scallops Wrapped in Uncured Bacon comes in a frozen package with approximately 10 pieces per box. The scallops are wild-caught and wrapped in a smoky, savory slice of uncured bacon, creating a perfect bite-sized appetizer that’s easy to prepare. Each scallop is individually wrapped, so you get a neat and attractive presentation every time.
These scallops can go straight from the freezer to the oven, making them a convenient option for quick, impressive appetizers. The uncured bacon adds a subtle smoky flavor without being too salty, while the scallops remain tender and juicy after cooking. Perfect for parties or a special occasion, these bites offer a gourmet twist on a beloved appetizer.
Honest Review of Trader Joe’s Scallops Wrapped in Uncured Bacon
Flavor: The combination of the delicate, slightly sweet flavor of the scallops with the smoky, savory taste of the bacon is classic for a reason. The bacon enhances the natural flavor of the scallops without overpowering them, creating a delicious balance of savory and sweet. The uncured bacon has a milder flavor than traditionally cured bacon, but it still brings enough smokiness to complement the scallops.
Texture: The texture is one of the best parts of this dish. The scallops remain tender and moist, while the bacon gets crispy as it cooks. The contrast between the soft scallops and the crispy bacon makes for a perfect bite every time. The bacon also helps keep the scallops from drying out, giving you a juicy, flavorful result.
Overall: These scallops are incredibly easy to prepare. From frozen, they go straight into the oven for about 15–20 minutes. They crisp up nicely and require no additional seasoning, which makes them a quick, no-fuss appetizer. Whether you're hosting a party or just want a special treat at home, these scallops deliver on both flavor and convenience.
Ingredients
Key ingredients include:
- Wild-Caught Scallops: The main star of this dish, providing a tender and slightly sweet flavor.
- Uncured Bacon: A smoky, savory addition that pairs perfectly with the scallops. The uncured bacon contains no added nitrates or nitrites, making it a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
- Skewers: Each piece is skewered, making them easy to serve and enjoy.
- Brown Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to round out the flavors
How to Enjoy Trader Joe’s Scallops Wrapped in Uncured Bacon
- Bake from Frozen: Preheat your oven to 450°F. Arrange the scallops on a baking sheet and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the scallops are cooked through. No need to thaw beforehand.
- Air Fryer Instructions:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F.
- Place the scallops in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are not touching to allow proper air circulation and even cooking.
- Air fry for 10–12 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure the bacon is crisping up. If needed, flip the scallops midway to ensure even cooking.
- Check doneness: The bacon should be crispy, and the scallops should be firm but not overcooked. Depending on the thickness of the bacon, you might need to add a couple of extra minutes to achieve the desired crispiness.
- Once they’re done, serve with your favorite dipping sauce, and enjoy a delicious, crispy appetizer in no time.
- Serve as an Appetizer: These scallops are the perfect appetizer for dinner parties, holiday gatherings, or even date nights. Serve them with a simple dipping sauce, like garlic butter or aioli, to elevate the flavors even more.
- Main Course Option: If you're looking for a light meal, serve these scallops over a bed of greens with a balsamic glaze or atop a creamy risotto for a restaurant-quality dish.
Recipe Suggestions
Bacon-Wrapped Scallop Risotto: Serve these scallops on top of a rich, creamy Parmesan risotto for a decadent main course.
Scallops and Bacon Salad: Toss mixed greens with a light lemon vinaigrette, then top with the scallops wrapped in bacon for a warm, savory salad.
Surf and Turf: Pair these scallops with grilled steak for a simple but elegant surf and turf dinner.
FAQs about Trader Joe's Scallops Wrapped in Uncured Bacon with Brown Sugar Glaze
The following are commonly asked questions about this product:
Garlic butter, lemon aioli, or a balsamic glaze are all excellent dipping sauces that complement the flavors of the bacon and scallops.
Yes! Cooking them in an air fryer will give you extra crispy bacon. Air fry at 400°F for about 10–12 minutes, checking halfway through.
Each box contains about 10 pieces, making it perfect for small gatherings or individual servings.
Conclusion
Trader Joe’s Scallops Wrapped in Bacon are a delicious and convenient appetizer that brings a classic flavor combination to your home kitchen. The pairing of tender, wild-caught scallops with smoky, uncured bacon offers a perfect balance of savory and sweet. At $6.99 for a box of approximately 10 pieces, these scallops make for an easy-to-prepare yet impressive appetizer that’s sure to please guests or add a special touch to a weeknight dinner. While they may be a bit pricey for the quantity, their flavor and ease of preparation make them worth it—especially for special occasions or gatherings. Just pop them in the oven, serve with a dipping sauce, and enjoy a gourmet appetizer with minimal effort.
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Trader Joe's Scallops Wrapped in Uncured Bacon with Brown Sugar Glaze
Product Name: Trader Joe's Scallops Wrapped in Uncured Bacon with Brown Sugar Glaze
Product Description: Trader Joe’s Scallops Wrapped in Uncured Bacon offer a perfect appetizer for any occasion.
Price: $6.99
Summary
Trader Joe's Scallops Wrapped in Uncured Bacon with Brown Sugar Glaze is a seasonal classic.
Pros
- Easy to Prepare: Can be baked straight from the freezer for a quick and delicious appetizer.
- Great Flavor: The combination of scallops and uncured bacon is a classic, crowd-pleasing pairing.
- High-Quality Ingredients: Wild-caught scallops and uncured bacon with no added nitrates or nitrites.
- Versatile: Perfect as an appetizer or paired with a main course like steak or salad.
Cons
- Limited Quantity: With only about 10 pieces per box, you might need multiple boxes if you're serving a larger group.
- Pricey: At $6.99 for 6.35 ounces, they’re not the cheapest option for appetizers, especially if you’re serving a crowd.
Jan says
I make these last night and they were SO GOOD!
I'm going back tonight to get some to keep in my freezer for last minute nibbles for guests.
becomebetty says
Thanks for sharing Jan!