Dive into Decadence: Scallops with Bacon Cream Sauce
Are you looking for a dish that screams sophistication and indulgence? Look no further than this stunning recipe for Scallops with Bacon Cream Sauce. This dish combines the tender, sweet flavors of scallops with the rich, salty crunch of bacon, all enveloped in a creamy Parmesan sauce. It’s a gourmet meal that’s surprisingly simple to make, perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself on a special evening.
Who Should Try This Recipe?
This recipe is ideal for seafood lovers and those who appreciate a touch of luxury in their meals. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner, a small gathering of friends, or just want to elevate your weeknight dinner routine, this dish is sure to impress. Its elegance makes it a fantastic choice for special occasions, yet it’s straightforward enough for any home cook to master.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: Despite its luxurious appeal, this dish can be prepared in about 30 minutes.
- Simple Ingredients: Requires just a handful of quality ingredients.
- Flavorful: The combination of creamy sauce and crispy bacon with the delicate flavor of scallops creates a truly mouthwatering experience.
Ingredients and Equipment Needed
Before you dive into cooking, make sure you have the following kitchen tools on hand:
- Medium skillet
- Slotted spoon
- Paper towels
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife for chopping
Ingredients:
- 8 slices bacon, chopped
- 1/2 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan
- 1/2 teaspoon canola oil
- 8 large fresh diver scallops
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Chopped chives for garnish
Step-by-Step Directions
- Cook the Bacon: In your skillet, fry the chopped bacon until crisp. Then, remove it with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add butter, cream, and grated Parmesan to the bacon grease. Reduce over medium heat until the sauce thickens by half. Stir back in the crispy bacon and season with salt and pepper.
- Sear the Scallops: Heat canola oil in a separate skillet. Season the scallops with salt and pepper, then sear until golden brown on each side, about 1 minute per side.
- Assemble and Serve: Spoon a generous amount of bacon cream sauce onto plates, place scallops on top, and garnish with chives.
Tips, Shortcuts, and Variations
- Shortcut: Use pre-cooked bacon to save time.
- Variation: Substitute shrimp for scallops if desired.
- Cream Alternative: For a lighter version, replace the heavy cream with half-and-half.
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Scallops are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored similarly and gently reheated.
Suggested Pairings
- Wine: A crisp, white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the richness of the bacon and cream beautifully.
- Side Dish: Serve with a light salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen scallops? A: Yes, but for best results, thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
Q: Is there a dairy-free alternative for the sauce? A: Yes, you can use coconut cream and vegan Parmesan to create a dairy-free version of this dish.
Conclusion: Share the Love
This Scallops with Bacon Cream Sauce recipe is a testament to the beauty of combining simple ingredients to create a dish that’s both sophisticated and satisfying. Try it out for your next special occasion, or whenever you feel like adding a touch of indulgence to your dinner.
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PrintScallops with Bacon Cream Sauce
- Author: Mia
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Description
Elevate your dinner with these luxurious Scallops in Bacon Cream Sauce! Perfect for a romantic evening or impressing guests. 😋🍽️✨
Ingredients
8 slices bacon, chopped
1/2 Tbsp unsalted butter
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1/2 cup Parmesan, freshly grated
1/2 tsp canola oil
8 large fresh diver scallops (i’m using 9 scallops)
Salt & pepper, to taste
Chopped chives for garnish
Instructions
In a medium skillet, cook chopped bacon over medium-high heat until crisp. Transfer the bacon with a slotted spoon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
Add butter, cream, and Parmesan to the skillet with the bacon grease. Reduce the sauce over medium heat by half. Stir in the cooked bacon. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm over low heat.
In a separate skillet, heat 1/2 tsp canola oil over medium-high heat. Season scallops with salt and pepper. Once the pan is hot, add the scallops. Sear until golden brown on one side, about 1 minute, then flip and sear on the other side for 1 minute until golden brown. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
Serve the scallops over a layer of bacon cream sauce. Garnish with chives
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 servings
- Calories: 400 kcal