Bacon wrapped shrimp is a mouthwatering appetizer or main dish that combines the smoky, crispy goodness of bacon with tender, juicy shrimp. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Whether you’re preparing for a party, a special dinner, or just craving a tasty treat, this recipe will guide you through the process with simple steps and flavorful tips.
Why You’ll Love Bacon Wrapped Shrimp
– Perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors
– Crispy bacon wrapped around succulent shrimp
– Quick to prepare and cook, ready in under 30 minutes
– Great for entertaining or a delicious weeknight meal
– Easy to customize with different marinades and seasonings
Ingredients You’ll Need
– Large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on)
– Bacon slices (preferably center-cut for easier wrapping)
– 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
– Toothpicks to secure the bacon
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Shrimp
Start by peeling and deveining the shrimp, leaving the tails on for a nice presentation and easier handling. Pat them dry with paper towels to help the seasonings stick better.
2. Partially Cook the Bacon
Lay the bacon slices on a baking sheet lined with foil or on a wire rack over a baking sheet. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (204°C) for about 5 to 10 minutes until the bacon is partially cooked but still pliable. This step ensures the bacon will be crispy by the time the shrimp is done without overcooking the shrimp.
3. Season and Marinate the Shrimp
In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil or melted butter, salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you like such as garlic powder or chili powder. For a sweet and savory twist, you can marinate the shrimp in a mixture of maple syrup, soy sauce, and chili powder for 10 minutes to several hours to infuse extra flavor.
4. Wrap the Shrimp with Bacon
Once the bacon is cool enough to handle but still flexible, cut the slices in half if they are too long. Wrap each shrimp with a half slice of bacon and secure it with a toothpick to keep it in place during cooking.
5. Cook the Bacon Wrapped Shrimp
Place the wrapped shrimp on a wire rack set over a baking sheet or directly on a foil-lined baking sheet. Bake or broil in the oven at 425°F (218°C) or under the broiler for about 8 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through. The shrimp should turn pink and opaque, and the bacon should be crispy.
6. Optional Glaze and Garnish
For an extra burst of flavor, brush the cooked shrimp with a glaze made from honey, soy sauce, or maple syrup mixed with garlic and chili powder. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley before serving.
Tips for the Best Bacon Wrapped Shrimp
– Use center-cut bacon for easier wrapping and quicker cooking.
– Don’t overcook the bacon in the first step; it should be soft enough to wrap but not raw.
– Marinate shrimp for at least 10 minutes to enhance flavor, but don’t exceed 8 hours.
– Use a wire rack to allow heat to circulate evenly and keep bacon crispy.
– Serve immediately for the best texture and taste.
Variations to Try
– Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the marinade.
– Sweet and Tangy: Use a glaze made with brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice.
– Asian Flair: Marinate shrimp in soy sauce, mirin, garlic, and ginger, then brush with sriracha mayo before serving.
– Grilled Version: Cook the wrapped shrimp on a grill for a smoky outdoor flavor.
What to Serve with Bacon Wrapped Shrimp
This dish pairs wonderfully with:
– Fresh garden salad or coleslaw
– Garlic butter rice or quinoa
– Roasted vegetables or grilled corn
– A chilled white wine or light beer
Bacon wrapped shrimp is versatile and sure to impress your guests or family with its irresistible combination of flavors and textures. Enjoy making this simple yet elegant dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
A delicious appetizer or main course that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Give it a try and watch it disappear from the plate!