Bacon wrapped shrimp is one of those irresistible appetizers that combine the smoky, crispy goodness of bacon with the tender, juicy flavor of shrimp. Whether you’re preparing for a party, a special dinner, or just a tasty snack, cooking bacon wrapped shrimp is surprisingly simple and quick. In this article, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make perfect bacon wrapped shrimp every time, including prep tips, cooking methods, and flavor ideas.
Why Bacon Wrapped Shrimp Is So Popular
– Flavor Explosion: The salty, smoky bacon perfectly complements the sweet, succulent shrimp.
– Easy to Make: Requires just a few ingredients and minimal cooking skills.
– Versatile: Great as an appetizer, party finger food, or even a main dish.
– Quick Cooking Time: Ready in under 30 minutes.
– Impressive Presentation: Looks fancy but is simple to prepare.
Ingredients You’ll Need
– Large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tail on for presentation)
– Bacon strips (regular or applewood smoked for extra flavor)
– Olive oil or melted butter
– Salt and pepper
– Optional: garlic powder, chili powder, honey, soy sauce, maple syrup, or your favorite glaze for extra flavor
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Cook Bacon Wrapped Shrimp
1. Prepare the Shrimp and Bacon
– Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
– If your bacon strips are long, cut them in half crosswise so they fit nicely around the shrimp.
– Partially cook the bacon first by laying it on a baking sheet or rack and baking for about 5 to 10 minutes until it’s just starting to cook but still pliable. This helps the bacon crisp up nicely without overcooking the shrimp later.
2. Season and Marinate the Shrimp
– Toss peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings you like (garlic powder, chili powder, or a splash of soy sauce work great).
– For a sweet and savory twist, you can marinate shrimp in a mixture of honey, soy sauce, garlic, and chili powder for 10 minutes to a few hours.
3. Wrap the Shrimp
– Wrap each shrimp with a half strip of pre-cooked bacon.
– Secure with a toothpick to hold everything in place, especially if your bacon pieces are short.
4. Cook the Bacon Wrapped Shrimp
Oven Method:
– Place the wrapped shrimp on a baking rack set over a baking sheet to allow air circulation.
– Bake at 400°F for about 10 to 15 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque and the bacon is crispy.
– For extra crispiness, finish under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
Skillet Method:
– Heat a little neutral oil in a skillet over medium heat.
– Place shrimp bacon seam side down and cook 2-4 minutes per side until bacon is browned and shrimp is cooked through.
– You can add a glaze or sauce in the last few minutes to coat the shrimp and enhance flavor.
Flavor Variations and Glaze Ideas
– Sweet and Spicy: Mix honey, chili powder, and garlic powder for a sticky glaze.
– Asian-Inspired: Combine soy sauce, honey, garlic, and mirin for a savory-sweet marinade.
– Maple Bourbon: Use maple syrup and a splash of bourbon for a rich, smoky sweetness.
– Garlic Butter: Brush with melted garlic butter before and after cooking for a rich flavor boost.
Tips for the Best Bacon Wrapped Shrimp
– Use large shrimp for easier wrapping and a better bite.
– Partially cooking bacon first prevents it from being undercooked when shrimp is done.
– Don’t overcook shrimp; they cook quickly and become rubbery if left too long.
– Secure bacon with toothpicks to keep it wrapped tightly.
– Let shrimp marinate for at least 10 minutes to infuse flavor.
– Serve immediately for the best texture and taste.
What to Serve with Bacon Wrapped Shrimp
– Fresh green salad or coleslaw
– Garlic bread or crusty baguette
– Rice pilaf or quinoa salad
– Dipping sauces like spicy aioli, honey mustard, or cocktail sauce
Bacon wrapped shrimp is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare and full of bold flavors. With simple steps and a few ingredients, you can create a dish that looks impressive and tastes incredible. Whether baked, broiled, or skillet-cooked, this recipe is sure to become a favorite at your table. Enjoy!