Buttery, caramelized sea scallops are seared in bacon drippings, finished with garlic and lemon, and crowned with crisp bacon and fresh parsley for a bright, savory bite.
Mince the garlic and chop the parsley; set aside.
Preheat the grill to its highest setting and place a cast iron skillet on the grates to heat.
Add bacon to the hot skillet and cook until crisp; remove, then chop for garnish.
Season both sides of the scallops with kosher salt and cracked black pepper.
Place the seasoned scallops into the bacon-greased skillet and sear about 2 minutes on the first side.
Flip the scallops (they should be nicely browned) and add the minced garlic and butter to the skillet.
Cook about 2 minutes more, then quickly flip the scallops again to coat in the melted butter and garlic.
Remove scallops to a plate; garnish with chopped parsley and the crisp bacon.
Squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the scallops and serve.