Pig Shots (Oven Baked) are little bundles of joy wrapped in crispy bacon with a juicy, cheesy center that’s impossible to resist. These bite-sized treats are perfect for snack time or as a fun party appetizer. The oven baking keeps them wonderfully crispy on the outside while the inside stays warm and melty.
I love making Pig Shots because they’re so easy to prepare and always disappear fast at gatherings. My favorite tip is to use toothpicks to keep every bite perfectly wrapped and to let the cheese ooze just right without spilling everywhere. Watching friends’ faces light up when they try one for the first time is always the best part!
When I serve Pig Shots, I like to pair them with a simple dipping sauce—something tangy or sweet to balance the salty bacon and rich cheese. They work great as a casual snack or a crowd-pleaser for game day. Honestly, these little pockets of yum always make any get-together feel a bit more festive and fun.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sea Scallops: These are the star of the show. Look for dry-packed scallops for best texture. If you can’t find scallops, large shrimp are a tasty alternative.
Bacon: The bacon adds crispiness and flavor. Thick-cut bacon works well but may need a longer bake time. Turkey bacon can be used for a leaner option, though it crisps less.
Spices & Brown Sugar: Garlic powder and smoked paprika give a nice smoky and savory taste. Brown sugar adds a caramelized glaze—feel free to skip if you want a less sweet finish.
Olive Oil or Butter: Brushing the pig shots helps the bacon get golden and crunchy. Either works well based on your preference.
How Do I Get Crispy Bacon Without Overcooking the Scallops?
The challenge is cooking the bacon until crispy without drying out the scallops. Here’s how I do it:
- Use a wire rack so the bacon fat drains and the heat circulates all around the pig shots.
- Wrap the bacon tightly and secure with a toothpick to keep it close to the scallop.
- Bake at high heat (425°F) to crisp the bacon faster without overcooking.
- Check at 15 minutes; you can broil for a minute or two at the end for extra crisp but watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Let pig shots rest a few minutes after baking—this helps any residual heat finish cooking the scallops gently.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet with a wire rack – I like this because it helps the bacon crisp evenly and lets fat drip away.
- Parchment paper or foil – makes cleanup easier after baking those delicious pig shots.
- Small bowl – for mixing spices so everything is evenly coated before wrapping.
- Toothpicks – to secure the bacon around the scallops and keep everything tidy during baking.
- Basting brush – helps spread oil or butter on the bacon for extra crispness.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap scallops for large shrimp or chunks of cooked chicken for different flavors and textures.
- Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or pepper jack cheese on top before baking for a cheesy twist.
- Wrap with prosciutto or turkey bacon for a different smoky or lean option.
- Sprinkle some hot sauce or paprika on the bacon for a smoky, spicy kick.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet with a wire rack – This helps the bacon cook evenly and lets the fat drip away, keeping your pig shots crispy.
- Parchment paper or aluminum foil – To line the baking sheet for easy cleanup.
- Small bowl – For mixing your spices together.
- Toothpicks – To secure the bacon around each scallop so it stays in place while baking.
- Basting brush – For brushing olive oil or melted butter onto the pig shots to help them brown nicely.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Switch up the seafood: Try swapping scallops for large shrimp or even chunks of cooked chicken for a tasty twist.
- Cheesy topping: Sprinkle a little grated Parmesan or shredded pepper jack cheese on top before baking for added flavor.
- Bacon alternatives: Use prosciutto or turkey bacon if you want a different flavor or a leaner option.
- Spice it up: Add a dash of hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or extra smoked paprika to the seasoning mix for some heat.
- Sweet and savory glaze: Mix a little maple syrup or honey with the brown sugar for a sweeter, sticky coating.
Can I Use Frozen Scallops for Pig Shots?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely in the fridge overnight and pat them dry before seasoning and wrapping. Excess moisture can prevent the bacon from crisping up well.
How Should I Store Leftover Pig Shots?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to keep the bacon crispy.
Can I Make Pig Shots Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare them up to step 5, then refrigerate covered for a few hours before baking. Just add a couple extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from chilled.
What Dipping Sauces Pair Well with Pig Shots?
Try tangy options like ranch, spicy mustard, or a smoky BBQ sauce. A sweet chili sauce or a simple garlic aioli also complement the savory flavors nicely.