Bacon-Wrapped Scallop Bites

Ingredients
1½ lb large sea scallops (about 20–24), patted dry
12 slices thin-cut bacon, halved crosswise

Directions

1. Preheat the oven
   Set oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. If you have one, place a wire rack on top.
2. Prepare the scallops
   Pat the scallops thoroughly dry with paper towels to prevent steaming.
3. Wrap with bacon
   Cut each bacon slice in half. Wrap each scallop with a half-slice and secure with a toothpick. Arrange on the prepared pan, leaving space between each piece.
4. Bake
   Bake for 15–20 minutes, until the bacon is crisp and golden and the scallops are opaque. For extra browning, move the pan to the top rack for the last 2–3 minutes.
5. Check for doneness
   The scallops should be tender and just firm, not rubbery.
6. Rest and serve
   Let rest for 2–3 minutes, then transfer to a serving platter. Serve hot, reminding guests to remove toothpicks before eating.

Simple, savory, and always a crowd favorite, these scallop bites are sure to be the first thing gone from the table.