Pig Shots (Oven Baked) are a fun, bite-sized treat that’s perfect for any casual get-together or snack time. These little bundles usually have a juicy piece of sausage wrapped snugly in flaky puff pastry, baked until golden and crispy. They’re super easy to eat and full of tasty, comforting flavors that never seem to disappoint.
I love making Pig Shots because they’re such a crowd-pleaser — everyone always asks for more! Plus, baking them in the oven means less mess and fuss compared to frying, which I really appreciate. My favorite tip is to brush the pastry with a little egg wash before popping them in the oven to get that beautiful, shiny finish that makes them look extra special.
These are great to serve as appetizers, party snacks, or even for a quick lunch. I like pairing them with a simple mustard dip or some tangy barbecue sauce to add a little zing. They’re wonderful for sharing with friends and family, and honestly, they bring out a nostalgic feeling that reminds me of good times around the table.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sea Scallops: Fresh scallops bring a sweet, tender bite. If you can’t find scallops, try large shrimp for a similar texture and flavor. Just adjust cooking time, as shrimp cook faster.
Bacon: Thin slices wrap easily and crisp up nicely. If you prefer less fat, you can use turkey bacon. Keep an eye on cook time since those can crisp faster.
Seasonings: Garlic powder and smoked paprika add warmth and depth. You can swap smoked paprika for regular paprika if needed, but the smoky note gives a nice touch.
Honey or Maple Syrup (Optional): A light glaze helps caramelize bacon for added sweetness. Skip this if you want to keep it savory or try a touch of BBQ sauce.
How Do I Get Crispy Bacon Wrapped Perfectly Around the Scallops?
Wrapping and baking bacon on scallops can be tricky because bacon needs to crisp without overcooking scallops. Follow these tips:
- Pat scallops dry—this helps bacon stick and prevents sogginess.
- Use thin bacon slices for quick, even cooking.
- Secure bacon with toothpicks soaked in water to avoid burning.
- Bake on a wire rack so fat drips away, which helps bacon crisp up.
- Optional glaze helps bacon caramelize but watch it closely to avoid burning sugar.
- Keep an eye on baking time; 15-20 minutes usually works best.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Oven-safe baking sheet or wire rack – I prefer a wire rack over a baking sheet for crispy bacon because the air circulates evenly.
- Toothpicks – to hold the bacon around the scallops; soak them in water first to prevent burning.
- Basting brush – handy for applying honey or maple syrup for that glossy finish.
- Paper towels – to pat scallops dry, which helps the bacon stick and crisp better.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap scallops with large shrimp or chunks of chicken for a different protein; adjust baking time accordingly.
- Use flavored bacon, like peppered or maple, to add extra zest.
- Add a sprinkle of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix for some heat.
- Glaze with barbecue sauce or honey during the last few minutes for a sweet and smoky crust.
How to Make Pig Shots (Oven Baked)?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 large sea scallops
- 12 slices of bacon (thin but long enough to wrap around scallops)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt (optional, depending on bacon saltiness)
- Toothpicks (soaked in water for 10 minutes to prevent burning)
- Optional: honey or maple syrup for glaze
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 to 20 minutes to bake. You’ll quickly season and wrap the scallops in bacon, then pop them into the oven. Total time is around 25 to 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a great quick appetizer or snack.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Scallops
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the scallops dry carefully with paper towels to remove any moisture. This helps the bacon crisp nicely and stick well to the scallops.
2. Season the Scallops
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Use a brush or your fingers to lightly coat each scallop with this seasoning mix.
3. Wrap with Bacon
Take one slice of bacon and wrap it tightly around a scallop. Use a toothpick to secure the bacon end so it stays wrapped during cooking.
4. Arrange and Glaze
Place the bacon-wrapped scallops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a wire rack set over a baking tray—this lets the fat drip away for crispier bacon. If you like, brush a little honey or maple syrup on top for a sweet, caramelized finish.
5. Bake to Perfection
Bake in your preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes. Watch carefully near the end—once the bacon is crisp and scallops are cooked through, they’re ready! Cooking time depends a bit on bacon thickness, so be sure not to overcook.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Let them cool for a minute or two, then remove the toothpicks. Serve your Pig Shots warm with your favorite dipping sauce like mustard, aioli, or something spicy. Perfect finger food for any occasion!
Can I Use Frozen Scallops for Pig Shots?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and pat them dry before seasoning and wrapping to avoid excess moisture.
Can I Prepare Pig Shots Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can wrap the scallops in bacon and keep them covered in the fridge for a few hours before baking. Just bake fresh when ready to serve for the best crispiness.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to keep the bacon crispy.
Can I Substitute Shrimp or Chicken for Scallops?
Yes! Large shrimp or bite-sized chicken pieces work well too. Just adjust the baking time—shrimp cook faster, and chicken needs to be fully cooked (usually longer).