Bacon-wrapped shrimp are simply the best! Juicy shrimp wrapped in crispy bacon create a perfect mix of flavor. This appetizer is sure to impress at any gathering!
You can’t go wrong with this tasty combo. I love serving them with a zesty dip on the side—it’s a hit every time! Who can resist that crunch with a side of shrimp magic? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp work best here; they hold up nicely when wrapped in bacon. If fresh shrimp aren’t available, frozen ones are a great option—just be sure to thaw and pat them dry before wrapping.
Bacon: I love using regular bacon for its balanced fat and flavor, but turkey bacon is a good substitute if you’re looking for a lower-fat option. Just keep in mind it may not get as crispy.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds a lovely taste, but you can swap it for melted butter or avocado oil if preferred, each bringing a unique twist to the flavor.
Seasonings: Garlic powder and smoked paprika give depth to the shrimp. If you’re out of smoked paprika, regular paprika or chili powder can work, but the flavor will change slightly.
Brown Sugar: This is optional but adds a sweet contrast to the saltiness of the bacon. Honey or maple syrup can substitute if you’re out of brown sugar.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Crispy Bacon?
Getting that bacon just right is easy with a few tips! The goal is to cook it until it’s crispy, while the shrimp remains juicy inside.
- Use a wire rack: This elevates the bacon-wrapped shrimp, allowing heat to circulate around them, which helps crisp up the bacon.
- Don’t overcrowd: Leave some space between shrimp on the rack to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Watch the broiler: Broiling at the end gives you an extra crispy finish, but keep a close eye on it as it can burn quickly.
With these tips, your Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp will be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering!
How to Make Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined with tails on
- 10 slices bacon, cut in half (about 20 pieces)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp brown sugar (optional, for a hint of sweetness)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
- Toothpicks
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious appetizer takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20-25 minutes to bake. You’ll be enjoying these tasty Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp in about 35 minutes! Perfect for a quick weeknight treat or an impressive party appetizer.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat The Oven:
First, set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil to catch any drips, and place a wire rack on top. This helps the bacon crisp up nicely while the shrimp cook.
2. Make The Seasoning Mix:
In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and brown sugar if you’re using it. Stir everything together until well blended.
3. Coat The Shrimp:
Now, toss the peeled shrimp in the seasoning mixture until they are nicely coated. It’s all about getting that flavor in every bite!
4. Wrap The Shrimp:
Take a halved slice of bacon and wrap it around each shrimp. Secure the bacon in place by inserting a toothpick through the shrimp and bacon. This keeps everything together while it cooks.
5. Arrange On The Rack:
Place the prepared bacon-wrapped shrimp on the wire rack. Make sure to space them out a bit so that hot air can circulate around them, which helps in crispy cooking.
6. Bake:
Put the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. You want to look for crispy bacon and cooked shrimp. If you like it extra crispy, you can switch to broil for the last 1-2 minutes (just keep an eye on them!).
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top for a lovely finish. Serve the shrimp warm with lemon wedges on the side for a fresh squeeze of flavor.
Enjoy your crispy, juicy Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp as a delicious appetizer or fun party snack! Everyone will love it!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator or under cold running water before wrapping. Pat them dry to remove excess moisture, which helps the bacon crisp up better.
How Do I Store Leftover Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp?
Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness.
Can I Prep This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can wrap the shrimp in bacon and season them a few hours ahead of time. Just cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake them. This makes entertaining much easier!
What Can I Serve with Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp?
These shrimp are great on their own, but you can serve them with a dipping sauce like cocktail sauce, spicy mayo, or even a sweet chili sauce. They also pair nicely with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables!
